Masquerade Party To Bring Teens Together And Raise Money

SEBRING - It's a refrain many parents and teachers of teenagers have heard: There's nothing for kids to do in Highlands County.

High school students Jenny Bond and Indya Martin are trying to change that perception, one evening at a time.

The teenagers have banded together with other teens to throw a masquerade party at Four Points by Sheraton Sebring, Chateau Elan exclusively for ninth through 12-graders from all county high schools.

"We're trying to get teens involved in the county, and then the county involved in the teens," said Bond on Tuesday.

The hotel donated the use of the property, and the teens have received some gifts from local businesses, while still seeking donations for raffle and door prizes.

The proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross of Highlands County.

Bond and Martin compared the Oct. 18 event to "a prom, but punked."

"We're having a fun night for the teenagers," said Martin. "We want to show that Sebring is not so boring that the kids want to go out and drink. Even if it's just one night that they don't drink and drive."

Bond and Martin hope to attract 400 mask-wearing teenagers at the masquerade party.

The organizers worked hard to make the event magical. Jenny's mother, Lisa Bond, said her home schooled 16-year-old is spending time preparing.

"They're working as friends and pulling together," said Lisa Bond. "When (Jenny) was told it wasn't going to be easy, she really worked to make it happen."

Jenny Bond said that some were skeptical.
"People said it wouldn't fly. So far we're on a roll."

Martin, a senior at Sebring High School, said there were people who think there is too much for the teenagers.

"A lot of the time you have people saying you can do anything you put your mind to, " said Martin. "We're showing other people and ourselves."

Art Harriman is the director of the local Red Cross, which is the event's beneficiary.

"It's great to see young people wanting to help their community and show their community support," said Harriman. "I applaud them. They're going out and doing it just like an adult event - but by and for them."

The teen masquerade will run from 7:30 p.m. to midnight, with a DJ, dancing, decorations and several surprises.

For information, tickets or to donate a door or raffle prize, call 655-9247.