Students Rock Annual Scholarship Catwalk

The Hackensack High School Class of 2011 put base in their walk as they ripped the runway for the PTSA annual scholarship fund fashion show and dinner on Tuesday evening, April 5th at the Venetian Banquet Hall in Garfield, NJ.

Over 100 students thrilled a 450 member audience with sashays and vogue poses in the spacious grand room. Swaying to the DJ mix of pop music spun by Middle School teacher Lynrick Rhymer, proud family, friends, school officials and community supporters cheered as the graduating class modeled beautiful clothes borrowed from David’s Bridal, Tony’s Formal Wear, Group US, Men’s Warehouse, Bou Bou’s

and Liz Fields.

Following a pre-show reception, the beaming students - with their hair and make-up done by the Parisian Beauty Academy a long time friend to the show - shined ever brightly as show hosts Corrine (Cori) Carrol, Lauren Marco, Caroline Krueger and Chris Ryan announced their names.

Taking their position as they stepped up to the runway, cameras flashed and the excitement of being the center of attraction and the culmination of a long planned event overwhelmed the future leaders.

“It took a lot of planning...” stated Dominique Sanchez (18) “…you want to do something with your grade and this is one of the things you can do and have fun.”

Six foot tall Stacie Harewood (17) chimed, “I’ve been waiting for my debut. We’re really excited.”

Beginning 15 years ago, this event has become an exciting staple in the PTSA’s fund raising resume. They garner community wide involvement and support. Always the most anticipated occasion, organizers couldn’t say enough about the students and those who have supported their efforts as they have raised well over $200,000.00 since its inception.

“It’s a phenomenal fund raiser to support the kids in the senior class.” PTSA members Debra & Frank Pinto proudly exclaimed. Their son Frank’s participation marked a big step for the bashful baseball pitcher.

“I’m proud of him he’s usually a shy guy.” Frank continued.

Tickets for the event were priced at $50 per person which included a reception buffet of fresh fruit, cheeses, etc. and delicious entrees of chicken, fish and pasta. In addition a 50/50 raffle, tricky tray and silent auction was offered that boasted a huge range of items. 179 general prizes valued up to $100 included items such as gift certificates to department stores, restaurants, passes to the Land of Make Believe, etc.; 30 grand prizes valued up to $200 for spa treatments, hair salon sessions, Taylor Swift tickets, etc. and 10 super grand prizes valued over $200 included a Coca-Cola bicycle donated by Coca-Cola and the Pinto Family and an IPad to name a few.

“It’s nice to see the community come together during these tough economic times. To have all of these people remember what it’s about and they’re still supporting the kids is what it’s all about.” stated Principal James Montessano.