May 11, 2010 > Ready to have a "ball" Ready to have a "ball" By Alissa Gwynn Photos By courtesy of Mission San Jose High School's the Smoke Signal Though school is winding down, the senior class of 2010 is just now gearing up for one of the most important events of the year: Senior Ball. Between dresses and tuxes, limousines, photographs, and more, prom is without a doubt a rite of passage for young people, creating lifetime memories Prom, which is a shortened version of "Promenade" (a march of guests into a ballroom signifying the opening of a formal ball), first appeared at the end of the 19th century. A much simpler ordeal back then, prom consisted of teenagers dressing in their Sunday best, socializing and drinking tea together. The first reference to "prom" came from a young man's diary in 1894; he wrote about his invitation to prom at Smith College (at the time high schools did not host proms). It was only in the 1950s, in the post-war economic boom, that prom as we know it first emerged. Girls began shopping for their perfect "prom look," and boys and girls alike coveted the social status that accompanied the title of "Prom King and Queen." In the 80s, movies like "Footloose" and "Pretty in Pink" further emphasized the extravagance of prom; competing for the best dress, best date, and best transportation became the norm. Today, glamour and sophistication are still associated with prom, as evidenced by Hummer limos and grand locations. Teenagers often emulate celebrities on their special night, following the dress trends (sequins, one shoulder), makeup (false eyelashes, red lipstick) and hairstyles (elegant updos or cascading curls) of the year. Although prom has changed drastically throughout history, the idea behind it remains the same. So, graduating Seniors, enjoy this monumental evening and dance the night away; prom only comes around once! Milpitas High School Saturday, May 15 8 p.m. to Midnight Parc 55 in San Francisco 55 Cyril Magnin Street, San Francisco Washington High School Saturday, May 22 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The Regency in San Francisco 1290 Sutter Street, San Francisco Mission San Jose High School Saturday, May 29 7 p.m. to midnight San Francisco Design Center Galleria 101 Henry Adams Street, San Francisco Irvington High School Saturday, May 29 8 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. The Exploratorium 3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco James Logan High School Saturday, May 29 8 p.m. to midnight Dolce Hayes Mansion 200 Edenvale Avenue, San Jose American High School Saturday, June 5 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Terra 511 Harrison Street, San Francisco Newark Memorial High School Saturday, June 5 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. San Francisco Design Center Galleria 101 Henry Adams Street, San Francisco