“Although last year I didn’t have as much involvement as I do this year, I saw people turned away [at the event],” said Leticia Fernandez, Executive Director of South Gate R.O.C.K.S., “and the max occupancy was 900!” As part of the city’s annual Azalea Festival, both South Gate R.O.C.K.S. and Miranda Runway Productions have organized a night of fashion, fun and music. With its sole purpose to educate, empower and educate the youth, South Gate R.O.C.K.S. and Miranda Runway Productions have organized an event that incorporates not only local business but also young talent.

The models participating in the fashion show are none other than 100 local high school students from South Gate High and South East High. “There are no size or height requirements to participate,” says Ceci Miranda of Miranda Runway Productions, “all we ask is that they commit themselves to showing up to rehearsal and to the fitting.”

Local retailers participating in the event are Fashion Expo, Solo Fashion, Le Boutique, Shoeport, My Baby Jo and Greenspans along with Tarantula clothing line, ReKon by AC, 187 INC., Latunido and local designers Ana Rosa, Designs by Eruvey Hernandez, Designs by Marci and XdollX.

After becoming official last September with a Friday Night concert as its first event, South Gate R.O.C.K.S. Executive Director Leticia Fernandez, has bigger plans ahead. “My long term goal is to create a youth center open every day especially on weekends. I would like to have programs with fashion shows, workshops and competitions, anything educational for the community.”

Although the membership to take part of South Gate R.O.C.K.S. is currently of no cost, Leticia strongly encourages students to attend the Friday fashion show where she and her staff will be providing more information on the program and providing memberships for those interested. The membership includes invites to monthly social nights with guest speakers, workshops, etc.

To participate in next year’s fashion show, send a message to Ceci at www.myspace.com/youthfashionshow and don’t forget to take part in South Gate R.O.C.K.S. by checking out southgaterocks.org.