Churches hosting post-graduation celebration

University Baptist Church is throwing a “No Regrets” graduation party for Portales High School seniors at 10 p.m. Friday at the church.

One of the events scheduled is a trip to Casel-Land Fun Center and then a return to the church for games.

“No Regrets” Director Lance Hill said it is the third time the church has sponsored the graduation party.

“The first time that the church did it was in 2006 I believe,” Hill said. “I assisted with it back in 2008 and what we would like is for all the churches to be involved. We like to have different churches sponsoring it each year if possible.”

Hill said Chris Horton from First Baptist Church and members from Iglesia Bautista Bethel have been assisting with the party.

The graduation party continues until 6 a.m. the next morning and is open to juniors and graduating seniors.

“Everything is free to the kids,” Hills said. “The churches have assisted with food and drinks. Then, we have local businesses who have been kind enough to donate door prizes that we will be giving out throughout the evening.”

Hill said it is not mandated that students stay all night. But if they decide to leave, they cannot return.

“It’s open to juniors and seniors or anybody invited by juniors or seniors,” Hill said. “However, they must have completed their freshman year of high school this year. No one below a ninth-grader is allowed this year.”

PHS Councilor Pam Nelson-Ray said she thinks it is an awesome alternative.

“We’re just grateful for the opportunity for our kids to do something,” Nelson-Ray said. “Every year you hear about something horrible happening on graduation or prom night across the county. So, anything we can do to protect our kids. I just commend the churches for providing kids with something fun to do and giving them a chance to celebrate with family and friends.”

• What: “No Regrets” Graduation All-Night Celebration

• When: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Friday

• Where: University Baptist Church, corner of 15th Street and Avenue I

• Information: 356-4501