Project Grad Fashion Show Goes Jersey Shore

The Sheraton Crossroads in Mahwah will have a decidedly Jersey look to it on Sunday, March 25. Over 140 Ridgewood High School seniors and Basil Pizzuto and Jeff Nyhuis will be strutting their stuff on the catwalk for the annual fashion show, raising money for 2012.

"It's our biggest fundraiser and we have a live auction," said Lindsey Barclay, the event co-chair. "It's so much fun to see the kids shine."

Lord & Taylor in Paramus, , , , , Gattinoli are all lending merchandise for the event, which holds a Jersey Shore theme this year.

Think Jersey Shore the place, not necessarily the raunchy TV show, though there is some overlap.

"Some of the boys picked out what you would think of as Jersey Shore tuxes to wear, which is pretty funny," laughed Tina Telesco, a co-chair. "There's a little humor in here, though there won't be any Snooki's. We're keeping it clean."

Apart from the main fashion walk and a lunch, a silent auction is prominently featured.

Up for grabs this year are prizes ranging from professional sports tickets to jewelry, clothing, gift certificates, fine wines and even vacation getaways. If you're lucky, you could win a tailgate party for 60, VIP graduation tickets/parking and an Eli Manning-signed football.

Project Graduation is a village tradition that's lasted for over 50 years, and pledges to provide the 400 graduates a safe, fun and alcohol-free place to hang out. 

"It's something the seniors really look forward to, as well as the senior parents," commented Telesco. "We always have over 400 people that go."

Students are kept in the dark until the final moments. Although she's hush-hush on what the 2012 theme will be, Barclay said she's confident the Project Grad 2012 will dazzle.

"It's fantastic! It's going to be the best one ever," she promised. "The kids are going to be very excited when they see it."

The event at the Sheraton Crossroads in Mahwah starts at 12 p.m. Sunday, March 25. Student tickets are priced at $45 and adults can attend for a price between $60 and $100. The funds received cover the costs of decorations, construction, food, entertainment, security, and transportation.

Ticket orders can be made here or by contacting Diane Luring at drl2265@aol.com.