A recent Friday evening on Kennedy Drive gave new meaning to the term “senior prom,” as the attendees at this one were all old enough to drink legally — and most are grandparents and great-grandparents.
This particular senior prom took place April 19 at the Senior Citizen Plaza, an apartment complex for older residents that’s run by the Key West Housing Authority.
“Some of our residents said they had never been to a prom when they were in high school,” said Peter Batty, director of community relations for the housing authority. “So we decided to host a prom for them in the auditorium of the apartment complex.”
The community came together to make the inaugural event a truly memorable evening, Batty said.
Timmy Tuxedos provided men’s formal wear, while the women donned beaded dresses and their finest jewelry. Danna and Maura Hughes, who own Two Friends and Pepe’s restaurants, donated the dinner that was served to each attendee. A DJ provided age-appropriate music that was familiar to the crowd and the Key West police and fire departments each sent officers and firefighters to pose for photos under a balloon arch and dance with anyone who needed a partner.
City Manager Al Childress was in attendance, along with Police Chief Sean Brandenburg, Fire Chief Alan Averette, City Commissioner Lissette Carey, who also works at the housing authority, and others.
The auditorium was decorated in true prom fashion, with gold stars hanging from the ceiling and tabletop decor.
“And while everyone here is old enough to drink alcohol, at least we don’t have to worry about anyone driving home, as you’re already here,” Batty joked.
