The senior class holds the traditional end-of-high school dance leading them into their final weeks at TJ.
Seniors and their dates arrived at the Wellshire Inn on Colorado Blvd., tickets in hand, prepared for a night of dancing, socializing and fun with their classmates.
Eight-o-clock on Saturday the 25th of April began with many TJ seniors pulling into the Inn’s parking lot in limos, town cars, and even a greyhound bus. Exiting the vehicles were students decked out in luxurious dresses, suits, heels and professional hairstyles. “I think one of my favorite parts of prom is having the option to completely make yourself over in fancy attire,” said Senior Demi Sullivan.
Prom attendees tend to form groups with friends they have grown close to over their four-year high school career. One group consisted of 20 couples, with a few lucky junior dates tagging along. “Being the girlfriend of a senior has its perks! I had a lot of fun with him at this one, next year will be tough competition,” laughs Junior Alex Clark.
When walking into the prom students were greeted by class of 2009 sponsor Jon Poole who took their tickets and pointed them in the right direction. Each room was laid out to serve the prom goers all the necessities: a bar with tasty beverages, a buffet with gourmet snacks, a photo-op area, and finally, located outside, was the dance floor. The breeze flowing through kept dancers from overheating while they showed off their moves. The DJ kept the dance flowing with a mix of tunes, from rock to rap and hip hop to old school hits. “I think the Wellshire Inn was a great venue for prom this year. It was nice; we were able to hold it inside the community, and the staff was extremely accommodating. The students seemed very pleased with the outdoor dance area too,” said Principal Sandra Just.
As the night progressed the traditional crowning of king and queen was the main focus. Mariah McCrea and Jalil DeBose stepped up to the front of the dance area to accept their crowns when the DJ announced their names. “Jalil and Mariah deserved to win King and Queen because they are personable and have great personalities. I couldn’t have picked them better myself,” said Senior Ryan Wyckoff.
When 11:00 p.m. rolled around, students loaded back into their vehicles to change clothes and head over to the school for the heavily anticipated After Prom. Inside they were led through a tunnel and into the gym where they found a transformed area, packed full of activities. For five hours they had the choice of playing card games at one of the many tables, romping in a blow-up obstacle course, slide and bungee-cord racing, getting their faces painted, taking funny pictures with friends, and many other things. “The obstacle course was actually a challenge. You had to run through it and climb up ropes, but it was really fun,” said Senior Turner Wyatt.
To quench their thirst and keep their eyes open until 5:00 a.m. there was a wall featuring energy drinks and other beverages. A large table provided an assortment of deserts and fruit to dip in an elegant chocolate fountain.
At the end of the night, prizes and presents were handed out to seniors and their dates. $25 VISA gift cards and tee-shirts were given to everyone and a selection of seniors won additional prizes. Overall, After Prom 2009 was a success. “The parents work hard to create a safe environment for the students after prom and I think it’s very commendable,” said Just.
Students finally leaving TJ as the sun came up will never forget Prom 2009, for it is one of the final milestones marking the end of an era in their lives.
