Safe haven stays strong

Charlottesville Daily Progress
Published: April 14, 2008

Never say die.
All Night Long, the Charlottesville-Albemarle after-prom party, will go on this year as usual despite some atypical obstacles.
The survival of All Night Long might not have been in question, but organizers have had to battle extra burdens this year because the alcohol- and drug-free event had to be moved forward to avoid conflicting with Albemarle County’s exam time.
April 26 was chosen as the day that city and county high schools could accommodate.
Never say die.
In the two decades that All Night Long has existed, there has not been a single alcohol- or drug-related accident on prom night in either the city or county.
“That is a pretty good record,” said event President Eric Lamb. “We must be doing a little something right.”
This year All Night Long will be able to move back into University Hall, after several years at Albemarle High School. This year for the first time, there will be a food court, along with the music, movies, games and other activities that traditionally have kept the after-prom crowd safe in a fun, but protected, environment.
However, the date change also puts prom and after-prom on the same day as the Foxfield Races. The spring races are known for attracting a college-age drinking crowd.
Race organizers have tried new things annually to reduce drinking and the dangers that accompany it, but have yet to perfect an approach.
That may mean that it’s even more important this year to encourage teens to hang out (at) All Night Long. In addition to their own temptations to drink and drive on prom night, there is a heightened risk of encountering other drivers who have been drinking.
After-prom organizers are putting even more stress on their no-alcohol message, and are asking parents not to schedule parties that would conflict with All Night Long and draw teens away from the safe space.
An earlier date has also given All Night Long about a month less in which to raise money. About two-thirds of the necessary $20,000 has been raised.
Next year’s school calendar will allow the date to be moved back to late May.
In the meantime, All Night Long deserves the community’s support — including from parents who can help make sure the area’s teens head to this sanctioned event rather than to private parties.
Many business and individuals already have given to support the event, but further donations can be sent to: All Night Long Inc., P.O. Box 5826, Charlottesville, VA 22905.