Jamie Cox

Columnist

“Jamie, you get on my nerves. You’re part of the prom committee that scheduled the prom at the FOX. Why you do that? You should’ kept it at the HILTON. Now, I can’t run upstairs and rent a room for the night.

Can you believe someone complained to me because I ruined their sexual rendezvou on prom night? My response was “And … like I care!” People, like this particular person, don’t even deserve to attend the prom. The night of prom i supposed to be special, a night of fun and good time, not a night of oochie coochie in some motel.

Before, I was really looking forward to my first prom; so, I decided to ask someone who can help us all:someone who’s ‘hip’ and up to date on matters relating to prom. That someone is … my grandmother. Yes, my Granny. Don’t laugh, she’s really a wise, cool person who draws on her knowledge of passt experiences to lend helpful hints. “Cause ain’t nothin new under the sun,” Granny always says.

“I don’t have a date.”

Well, Granny says, “Oh chile’ don’t worry about that. If you don’t have a date so what? It doesn’t matter. You are going to have fun, not to show off the person on your arm. Go with a group of friends or step up in there by yo’ self. It won’t be so terrible. Hardly anyone will notice. Many times dates end up in spoiling your fun because you can’t let loose and be yourself. The point is to have yourself a ball.”

“I don’t want to pay so much money for an outfit.”

Well Granny says, “Rent an outfit. Yes, you can rent a nice dress as well as a tuxedo. And if you’re really in a jam borrow an outfit from your neighbor or friend. Just make sure you bring it back like you borrowed it.”

“Transportation is a major problem for me.”

No problem. Granny says, “If it was up to me everyone would meet at the MARTA station and ride to prom in a decorated train. But, since you teenagers have to be so fancy, get a group of people, let everyone pitch in and rent a car. Designate a driver, and you’re off.”

“I can’t afford to eat in a really nice restaurant.”

Granny says, “Don’t go to a really expensive place. Half the time you don’t know what you’re eating, anyway. There is always enough food at the prom to get your belly full. Really, there is no need [for] going out to eat. Bring $2 for a little [ice] cream afterwards and let everything be.”

I hope Granny’s suggestions helped. Oh, wait. She says she has one more thing to say to you.

“Good-bye, dearies. I hope you have a wonderful time at the prom. Have the time of your lives. Don’t spoil your night by drinking too heavily and doing something completely out of your normal character. To put you in the mood for this special event, I’ve given Jamie a brief poem to share with you. Have fun!”

FIRST KISS

I RAN UP THE DOOR

OPENED THE STAIRS

SAID MY PAJAMAS

AND PUT ON MY PRAYERS.

TURNED OFF MY BED

GOT IN MY LIGHT

AND ALL BECAUSE

YOU KISSED ME GOODNIGHT.

Pamela Jackson

McKinley Senior High School

Washington, D.C.