Students of CHS attended the Winter Formal on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. Under the theme of Casino Royale, a venue in Fullerton called “Hangar 21” was decked out to the nines by the sophomore ASB officers.
Students showed up to the check-in tables with their IDs and were met with a friendly detection dog named Stanley. They were then led into a hallway that revealed the dance floor where two disco balls hung from the ceiling alongside flashing strobe lights. Decorations of ‘Spin the Wheel’ and signs of Las Vegas filled the space to communicate the dazzling theme.
Several tables of food ranged from meatballs to brownies where students could dine with friends for the night. Senior Robin Chong expressed her delight with how the food “was fresh and on time, especially as a ‘pick-me-up’ after dancing.” In addition to these treats, refreshments of water and lemonade were supplied.
An entertainment section was also given to those who attended. Poker tables were provided and caught the attention of the majority of the students as they were eager to gamble as if it were a real casino. Additionally, photo booths with props allowed friends and couples to take pictures and save memories with one another.
The music had been relatively enjoyable based on how crowded the dance floor was. Students were able to dance their hearts away to their favorite songs. Spanning from well-known artists such as Drake to Justin Bieber’s popular “Baby.” As the night progressed, the music changed from the usual dance music to a full-on spy theme song. Students were confused on the dance floor, believing it was a part of the theme until they realized the sound of an approaching helicopter.
In front of the dining tables, a helicopter landed garnering the attention of the students scattered around the venue. As crowds of students surged towards the spectacle, they all began to take their phones out to record. It wasn’t until the icons of our school stepped out of the helicopter with a victorious smile, waving out to the crowd. Principal Patrick Walker and ASB Advisor Mrs. Matchett had been flown in by helicopter and applause erupted for their glorious arrival.
The crowning of the court was announced for each grade. Freshmen Anabella Romero and Jacob Arcangel, Sophomores, Lauren Arca and Aneek Patel, and Juniors Samantha Duran and Kekoa Usi were all crowned the princes and princesses of their grade. Afterward, the King and Queen of the Winter Formal 2024 Court were given to Seniors Sophia Suarez and Diego Martinez.
The night had been a successful hit for students. Senior Jessica Peck confirmed that the night had been “phenomenal and sparkly compared to the last dances we’ve had.”
