Gaffney High School will hold its ninth annual Prom Bash on Friday at W.K. Brumbach Stadium.

Marlene Davis, assistant principal and coordinator of the event, says the goal is to have no students drinking and driving or getting in a vehicle with someone who is intoxicated.

"We hope it will make them think about the consequences of drinking and driving," she said. "Young people in general think they're invulnerable, that they're going to live forever. So far none of us has lived forever."

Cherokee County School District Superintendent Dr. Bill James implemented the program when he was GHS principal in 1997. His nephew died of alcohol poisoning years before at a graduation party.

The day begins with a morning assembly at which speakers talk about how they have been affected by drunk driving. Blacksburg High School seniors are invited to attend the assembly. One of this year's speakers is Megan Radvanski, Miss Teen South Carolina, whose brother was killed by a drunk driver.

After the assembly, the students are taken to the stadium for a day of entertainment. Softball, frisbee, music, games, food and a dunking booth are all part of the events. Helicopters and the "bat mobile" the blood alcohol testing vehicle will also be there.

Students get a hamburger/ hot dog lunch. Ladies from local churches help serve while the men from Cherokee Technology Center cook. Students also have opportunities to win prizes.

"I think it's a really unique way for students to see how their community cares for them," Davis said.

To be eligible for the event, students must promise not to drink on prom night and sign a pledge card to that effect.

No alcohol-related accidents have occurred in the eight years the event has been held.