Since 1982, the Los Banos Police Activities League has hosted Sober Grad Night, a tradition that offers high school seniors a safe, substance-free way to celebrate after graduation.
With the closure of Jungle Jim’s Adventure Lanes, which hosted the event for the past few years, this year’s celebration will be held at the Los Banos Community Center, thanks to a strong partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department.
“We have an awesome relationship with Parks and Rec,” said Officer Mariam Rivas, Sober Grad Night Coordinator. “I reached out to them early, and they were happy to help us use the community center for this year’s event.”
The event is open to graduating seniors from Los Banos High School, Pacheco High School, San Luis High School and Crossroads. It begins June 6, at 6 p.m., immediately following graduation ceremonies, and continues through the night until 6 a.m. the next morning.
This year’s theme is Casino Grad Night, featuring entertainment such as a DJ, live music, casino-style games, laser tag with water beads, human bowling ball, inflatable horse races and a sports zone with basketball and dodgeball.
There will also be a movie lounge with rotating showtimes and classic games like cornhole, jenga and even a pool table.
Prizes will be raffled off throughout the night, ranging from gift cards and electronics like tablets and speakers to grand prizes of $1,000 and $500, which were all made possible through community donations. Food and drinks, including tacos, pizza, nachos, snacks and beverages, will also be available thanks to local donors.
This year’s sponsors include the Los Banos Rotary Club, Steitz Rentals, Glady’s Barber Shop, the Morning Star Packing Company, Kagome, Elizabeth Johnson and Stanley and Veronica Gable.
“Sober Grad wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Los Banos community,” said Rivas. “Every prize, every meal, it’s all donated. The community came together to give students a fun and safe night.”
Students can pre-register through their schools in the coming weeks, with packets provided to class officers. They can also register at the door with a parent or guardian present to sign the necessary forms.
“Students should take advantage of this night,” said Officer Rivas. “Come out, enjoy yourselves, and celebrate. Parents can have a peace of mind knowing their child is safe.”
