Last dance of the year ends with a bang

Wasco High School held its "Last Blast" prom for students of all grades, where they dressed up in their finest outfits and danced the night away.

This year for the first time, there were games, tacos and cotton candy to make the evening more memorable for all 156 students that attended.

Miss Wasco Rose Queen and Associated Student Body President Ensley Mehlberg came to the event.

"I helped with the planning and came up with the theme, Coachella, a music festival. I liked the colors and the brightness, so that's why I chose it."

For many, it was the last dance of their high school experience.

"It's bittersweet. I always look forward to WHS's dances and events, so I'm going to be a little sad not to have that any more," Mehlberg said.

Gerry Rios said, "I'm glad I am able to celebrate. It's my last year, and I'm making the most of it. The best part was spending time with the people I grew up with."

Students were dressed for the occasion, and Stefan Montezdeoca won best dressed last year.

"I wanted to impress everybody again this year."

Amanda Rodriguez, an English teacher with WHS for five years, said she has been a chaperone since she started with the school.

"WHS has the best students. They are always respectful, and they all have just the best time. It's honestly so easy because these kids are so good. I love them so much."

This year, a new DJ brought lights and a fog machine to add energy to the dance floor and played popular songs in English and Spanish to keep it alive with excitement.

Benito Juarez said, "The DJ is really good. He played a lot of the songs I like."

"Everyone was so hyped up. I danced all night. The music was fantastic," Mayra Altamirano said.

"Tonight was special because I've come every year, and each time is amazing. I came with my boyfriend to enjoy ourselves and make memories. I didn't want to miss it," Katelynn Puckett said.

A highlight of the prom was the announcement of the King and Queen, which were Daphene Jackson and Ricardo Andrade.

Jackson said, "I'm so thankful. I don't know how to express how I feel tonight. I'm just so excited."

It ended on a high note.

"I had a blast," Aileen Solis said.