Prom Night-Muskogee Style

Prom is touted to be high school's biggest social event. The dress, the date, the dinner plans. I asked a teacher friend if some MHS Juniors and Seniors could take a minute or two and complete a survey. No names, and honest answers. The Muskogee High Prom is this weekend. What do the Class of 2007 and 2008 think of the upcoming event?

I don't know how scientific the format was but I found it interesting. What follows are some off- the- cuff responses to my survey questions.

1. What does "Going to the Prom" mean in 2007? Is it still dinner in Tulsa, a rented limo, a tux and an expensive dress?
#1. Dinner in Tulsa, tons of parties, limo and a "rockin" dress.
#2 Prom is the time to be with friends before we go and start whole, new lives.
#3 Going to prom for me is a last chance to be with friends while looking like a queen.
#4. Our group figured out this year that you don't have to rent a limo and go to Tulsa. You don't have to pay a lot of money for your dress for prom night to be considered a success. It's not so much about what you do but who you're with . The memories come from the friends you're with.
#5. Going to prom means being with as many of our friends as we can to spend one of our last "group" activities together.

2. If you are not excited about prom this year, why?
#1. Well, if anything, the prices and expenses are ridiculous and off the charts. I owed over $100.00 dollars at the bank before they would even let me but a prom ticket. (Note: School debts must be settled before buying a ticket. This includes perhaps a lost text book or a parking ticket....or 2 or 3)
#2. It's too crazy of a night to really enjoy.
#3. People acting stupid. The drinking at the after parties.
#4. Only the popular kids have fun at prom. I don't want to come again this year without a date.
#5. It is $40.00 a couple this year and the prom is in the school cafeteria. Nothing like the smell of stale tater tots as you dance.

3. Any tips for cutting the expense?
#1. Yes, forget the decorations and charge less for tickets. It 's always crepe paper and cardboard anyway.
#2. Girls, do your own makeup, hair and nails. Boys should have the decency to pay for dinner and prom tickets. Oh, and you could borrow a dress from a friend.
#3. It is not important to wear an expensive dress. Everyone at MHS is all about cheap, cute and short.
#4. Vintage stores for retro dresses and suits. Also Resale and Consignment Stores. You don't need a tux.
#5. Have dinner together at someones house. Last year we had steaks with all the trimmings and each chipped in $15.00.
#6. Instead of Olive Garden, make a little stop to the place with the "Golden Arches."

4. What are your specific plans this year? (#1 IS MY FAVORITE)
#1. Whatever the girls tell me I am doing.
#2. Pictures at Honor Heights, Dinner at the cabin, then of course we will arrive fashionably late, around 10:00.
#3. Eat early, go to the Roxy to hear live music, then go to the prom.
#4. Eat, take pictures, go to the dance, then to Wal Mart to hang out with friends.
(Wal Mart??)

5. Are you and your group wise about safety and driving?
#1. Me, yes, Friends, not so much.
#2. Yes, we are very wise, I will probably be the designated driver.
#3. Yes, for sure!
#4. Of course.
#5. No.
#6. Yes, we will have a designated D.D.
#7. Of course. Everyone should be.
#8. Somewhat.

6. Does everyone go with a date?
#1. Yes, but not so much as couples, more as friends.
#2. Less couples, more platonic friends.
#3. Duh. Of course, it pretty much looks bad if you don't.
#4. 98%
#5. Yes, because they were asked and are going with a date. But I'm not.
#6. Yeah, you want someone to take a picture with.
#7. I don't intrude in anyone else's business, therefore, I don't know.
#8. Yes. The date thing is a way to finally hang out with someone you've had a crush on all year and haven't asked.

I never minded chaperoning at prom when I was a teacher at MHS. It was always fun to see my students all dressed up , and who they came with. Seniors and Juniors, have a wonderful time this weekend, make memories and stay safe!!!! Remember boys, just do what the girls tell you to do and you'll all have a grand time! (see #4)
Oh, I just remembered another question I wish I had asked. Do you all still wear corsages and boutonnieres? I personally never got that wrist corsage of miniature roses and tiny daisies. John R. definitely did not follow instructions very well! My red carnations started at the wrist and ended up right at the crook of my elbow.