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By MARY ELLEN MARK

• March 30, 2012

THE prom is a rite of passage that has always been one of the most important rituals of American youth. It is a day in our lives that we never forget — a day full of hopes and dreams.

I’ve kept several photographs from my high school days, including some from my time as a cheerleader, but the image that has intrigued me the most is my own prom picture. There I am, my hair in a perfect pageboy, wearing pearls and high heels. I’m in a beautiful white dress with pink flowers. I have a corsage and a gold bracelet on my wrist. Behind me is Stuart, my prom date. He was not my boyfriend, just a good friend. He has a white jacket and a perfect little bow tie. (He ended up marrying one of my best friends from high school.) Both of us have big, hopeful smiles. We were facing our perfect futures. The world was ours — or so we thought.

Over the years, beginning in 1986,   I photographed several proms around America in a documentary style of photography using medium-format and 35-millimeter cameras. I was fascinated by how the dress and behavior of the promgoers reflected their cultural differences.

For example, at a prom for Peabody High School in Pittsburgh, middle-class white girls bought their dresses at a local department store, while the African-American girls had their gowns custom-made. Their gowns were unique, while the store-bought dresses were alike.

View Slide Show ›

Seventeen years ago, I started working with a Polaroid 20-by-24-inch Land camera. The camera is very large — about 6 feet tall, weighing 240 pounds. There are only five in the world. The camera needs a specially qualified technician to operate it since it’s quite complicated and takes great skill to move it, manipulate the bellows for changes in magnification, adjust the lens and load and process the chemistry and the paper. With a 20-by-24 camera, you are taking a picture and making a print at the same time.

Each camera has its own personality, and the technicians who operate them have to understand the moods and quirks of the particular camera. As with the small Polaroid cameras that we are all familiar with, each image from the 20-by-24 camera is a final print with no negative. The entire process is a great challenge, but it’s worth it.

This work spanned four years, from 2006 through 2009. We would arrive at the site on the morning of the prom and set up two studios, one for the 20-by-24 camera and another for filming interviews. Once the prom started, my interns would help me scout the dance floor for students who would be good candidates to photograph. They would take Polaroid Spectra instant photographs to show me, and from those I would choose couples.

In some high schools a teacher would help preselect couples. I was looking for students who represented a range of backgrounds, personalities, looks and so on. We estimated 20 minutes a portrait, but sometimes it took longer, depending on the complexity of the lighting. You can’t go back into a darkroom and make corrections. I tried to make at least three unique prints of each couple. We were very aware of our time limitations, since a prom is only a few hours long.

Looking at my own prom photograph reminds me of how significant that moment was — and how fleeting life is. A while back I was at the outdoor flea market in Chelsea. One of the vendors was selling secondhand clothes. There on a hanger was the same dress I wore to my prom. To this day, I regret not buying it.

Mary Ellen Mark is the author of “Prom” and 17 other photographic books.

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Prom — The Need To Eliminate Unwritten Rules Of Prom Dress Code

The Need to Eliminate Unwritten Rules of Prom Dress Code

• Categories: Graduation Prom

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Published: Jun 9, 2021

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Column: Write an essay about ‘giving back’ and you’ll get a prom dress, the teacher said

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At lunchtime, the seniors — 11 girls — filtered into the classroom at the Humanity and Arts Academy of Los Angeles, an autonomous school on the campus of Narbonne High School in Harbor City. They wore typical high school clothing: sweatshirts and leggings, T-shirts and ripped jeans.

The back of the classroom, in one of those portable buildings that never move, had been turned into a dress store; long gowns and minis hung against the wall. Next to that, a table with shoes and jewelry.

The girls eyed the merchandise, silently making their picks.

Soon, they would disappear into the empty classroom next door, which had been turned into a dressing room, and reappear in astonishingly pretty prom dresses, some even teetering in impossibly high heels.

“I’ve been waiting for prom since I was 4 years old!” said Nia Burton, who plans to attend Texas Southern University next year.

The dress giveaway was their reward for entering an essay contest organized by 11th-grade English teacher Pattianna Harootian, an intense former competitive boxer, who does not ever seem to stop moving, or talking, or giving directions. (“I am kind of controlling,” she told me. “Don’t write that down.”)

Each of the girls, who had already struggled to come up with $130 for their prom tickets, had produced 500 words on the topic: “How I give back.”

“I’m all about teaching my kids to be charitable,” Harootian said. Boxing had given her incredible confidence, she said, so after she left the ring, she founded a charity called Knock Outs for Girls. She wanted to teach girls to box, to remind them of their own strength, and to encourage them to empower themselves by doing good things for other people. (She also organizes an annual toy drive for the children at Hillsides, a children’s home in Pasadena. One year, she told me, one of the children there asked for a toothbrush.)

She organized her first prom dress giveaway last year. All the items — dresses, shoes and jewelry — were donated by friends and colleagues.

Harootian plucked a maroon halter dress off the rack. “I don’t know,” she said, frowning. “This one might be too sexy.”

Naturally, it was among the first to go.

Reading through the girls’ essays, I was struck by their kindness, humility and optimism.

Tiffani Cadogan’s mother, Theresa, died of breast cancer in 2015. Tiffani took her mother to many of her doctor appointments, and cared for her until the end. “Despite what she went through,” Tiffani wrote, “she still managed to help others and I decided to follow in her footsteps.”

This summer, Tiffani will volunteer at Children’s Hospital. “There are so many who just need support and unconditional love,” she wrote. “My ultimate goal in life is to spread love.”

Nia Burton wrote that she recently got a job to help her family. “My parents have a lot of bills and senior year is a big extra expense,” she wrote. She didn’t find a dress she liked, but got a nice pair of hoop earrings, and Harootian is already putting out the word to her friends that she needs a few more dresses.

Ymani Jackson wrote about waking up every morning at 4:30 to get her siblings ready for school: “I have to make sure they have food in their system so they won’t be hungry.” After school, she coaches girls at the Inglewood Cheer and Dance Palace and takes them to competitions.

Audrey Zavala has been feeding homeless people on skid row since she was little, she wrote. “Doing so made me realize it’s important to get out of your comfort zone and help other people as much as possible.”

One girl described a bad family situation. Her mother always told her to “be the light in such a dim world.” “I know how it feels to lose hope,” she wrote. “Girls need to know that they are beautiful and they are worth finding, worth knowing, worth loving. Sometimes you need to forget what you feel and remember what you deserve.”

Chioma Nzeogu won the essay contest, which meant she got first pick of the dresses and shoes.

Chioma is 6 feet 1, and plays power forward and center on the Narbonne basketball team. She is hoping to study culinary arts, first at Harbor Community College, then maybe at a four-year college in Oregon.

Lately, she told me, her family has hit a rough patch.

She and her mother lost their Lomita home, and had to move in with her older sister in Buena Park, about 25 miles away from school. Eventually, they were able to move into her grandmother’s house in Compton, which is only 12 miles away. The house has three bedrooms, but is cramped.

“There’s already a lot of people staying at my granny’s,” she said. “My uncle and aunties.”

She gives back, she wrote, by teaching her nieces and nephews the things she’s learned from her basketball coaches, so they can excel at the game as she has. “I also make sure kids know right from wrong, and make them feel as though whatever they do and say is important, because it is.”

I asked her about the left lens of her tortoiseshell glasses, which was mended with white tape.

“A couple weeks ago, my teammate was coming in for a layup when she bumped into me,” Chioma said. “I fell and my glasses broke.”

She can’t afford new glasses yet — her mom is unemployed — but burst out laughing when I asked if she planned to wear the broken ones to prom. “No!” she said. “I have contacts, but I don’t like them. They make my eyes feel weird.”

On May 24, the prom is scheduled to take place at The Reef, a waterfront restaurant in Long Beach about 12 miles southeast of the school campus.

Chioma said she wasn’t sure how she would get there, but was thinking she might be able to pool her money with some friends for a limo ride.

It’s not clear where they’ll get the $500 limo fee, but these young women are not short on hope.

However Chioma gets to the prom, she’ll look beautiful in her pick: a short, fitted tank dress, in a blue ombré pattern.

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Twitter: @ AbcarianLAT

Robin Abcarian is an opinion columnist at the Los Angeles Times. She writes about news, politics and culture. Her columns appear on Wednesday and Sunday. Twitter: @AbcarianLAT

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Woman Depicted in Viral 'Prom Dress/Wedding Dress' Essay Reacts to Provocative Piece

Prom date reacts to depiction in woman’s controversial essay, o.j. simpson dies at 76, a look back at o.j. simpson’s 1995 murder trial, where is o.j. simpson’s iconic ford bronco, man found guilty of homicide in deadly stabbing, ‘rosie the riveter’ given congressional gold medal, inside deals: cuisinart pro stand mixer, wireless charging stands, moissanite necklace, former mayor says barber helped him stop being a ‘bigot’, teenager rescued from lake after struggling to stay afloat, sucker punch attacks inspire women to take self-defense classes, oprah winfrey among icons on people magazine's 50th anniversary cover, 'tamron hall show' evacuated after fire in abc studio, baby born during eclipse is named sol with big sister luna, man who stabbed teen during tubing incident takes stand, passenger lands plane after pilot suffers medical emergency, wife of former 'chopped' contestant claims he ghosted her, trump lashes out at prosecutors in his hush money trial, woman sets new record with highest rope climb at eiffel tower, judge breaks gavel ordering 60 days in jail for former sheriff, lone horse boards australian train, man fatally shoots former daughter-in-law and her husband, shelby hicks says it's difficult not to take it personally, but admits the last thing she wanted was a wedding ring from him..

A young woman believed to be at the center of a viral essay is speaking out after her former prom date’s fiancée penned a provocative essay that has gone viral. 

Victoria Higgins, 22, a Missouri State University senior, writes a weekly column for The Odyssey, a website that posts blogs targeted to various colleges and universities.

The bride-to-be wrote a recent essay about the past of her new  fiancé , Brandon, with the headline: “You May Have Worn the Prom Dress With Him, But I Get to Wear the Wedding Dress."

In language that appears to be mocking her fiancé’s  high school prom date, she wrote: “I wish I could say I’m sorry it didn't work out for you, but I can't. I can't because he is mine now, and I get to cherish him forever."  

The essay has gone viral since it was published last week. 

Inside Edition has caught up with Brandon’s prom date, Shelby Hicks, who was asked what she thinks of Higgins’ provocative words. 

“That is me," she said. "I went to two proms with him, so it's hard not to take it personally."

She wishes the couple the best and says she never wanted anything long-term with Brandon.

“The last thing I wanted was a wedding dress and wedding ring from him," she said. 

Since publishing the piece, Higgins has been labeled a "psychopath" and "scary lady."

She says she was shocked at the fierce reaction.   

"I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep," she told Inside Edition. "People have been messaging him, telling him to run and saying I should be in a psych ward, that I’m the mayor of crazy town."

Higgins and her fiancé say it's all a big misunderstanding. She never intended to target his prom date. 

"The feedback from everyone — that really hurt me as well because I hate seeing such a beautiful strong woman being hurt the way she did," he added. 

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How Prom Traditions Have Evolved Through History

By: Lesley Kennedy

Updated: April 27, 2023 | Original: April 28, 2023

Prom, an iconic rite of passage for many teenagers, has been a tradition celebrated by students since the late 19th century. Short for "promenade,” proms are modeled after the debutante balls of high society and have evolved from semi-formal end-of-the-year dances held in school gyms to become a billion-dollar industry encompassing limousines, flowers, photography, special attire and over-the-top invitations.

Early Origins of Prom

The concept of a celebratory event for young people traces back to ancient Greece , when formal banquets, called “symposia,” were held for elite men to honor their transition into adult society. Often featuring lavish dinner parties, theatrical performances, speeches, debate, music and general revelry, the gatherings also involved excessive wine drinking. ancient Romans celebrated a young man’s coming of age with a similar banquet, called a “convivium.” 

In 18th- and 19th-century Europe, women participated in aristocratic formal dances and balls that grew in popularity, with debutante balls becoming common as coming-out ceremonies for the elite.

The First American Proms

According to the Oxford Dictionaries, the word promenade, defined as a leisurely walk or place for walking, is also used to describe movements in ballet and ballroom dancing. It morphed in the late 19th century when promenade concerts often included attendees dancing in formal attire during Ivy League college festivities. 

Although it’s not clear who hosted the first American prom, an article in the December 5, 1879, issue of The Harvard Crimson references the “Junior Prom,” and an 1895 diary entry from then-Amherst student Dwight Morrow, who later served as an ambassador to Mexico and U.S. senator, cited that he had been invited to a junior prom at Smith College. An 1895 photo in the Smith archives shows a junior prom held at the school’s Alumnae Gymnasium. 

Prom Gets Popularized

The popularity of the dances quickly spread to high schools, becoming what Amy Best calls in her book, Prom Night: Youth, Schools and Popular Culture , “a democratized version of the debutante ball.” 

“The prom afforded anyone attending high school the opportunity to feel as though they too were ‘coming out,’ that they could transcend the boundaries of class,” she writes. “The message was that you did not have to be rich to wear a fancy frock, to be adorned with a corsage, or to waltz the night away.”

Proms experienced a surge in popularity in the early 1930s, and, in 1936, The Junior-Senior Prom served as the first guidebook for students attending the dance. A May 18, 1934, article in The Stanford Daily reported on that evening’s junior prom, held in the women’s gym, noting its decor would feature a mini replica of San Francisco “as a panorama surrounding the penthouse” along with trellises filled with climbing roses, sparkling fountains and red and white awnings. 

By the 1940s, when teens came to be considered a distinct consumer category, the trend really took off, and the late 1940s and 1950s became the “golden age of prom,” writes Ann Anderson in High School Prom: Marketing, Morals and the American Teen . During this time, dances began moving from school gyms to luxe hotels and banquet rooms, and the crowning of prom kings and queens became commonplace.  

Presidential Proms

President John F. Kennedy made news on June 7, 1963, when he stopped by the John Burroughs High School senior prom, held in the bigger ballroom at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, after attending a fundraiser in the smaller upstairs ballroom. The president, along with comedian Jack Benny, addressed the teens . 

“Actually, this is a better room than the room we have upstairs,” he told the teens to laughter and applause. “Next to being president—in fact rather than being president—I’d prefer to be a senior in this high school. And if Mr. Benny and I are not too old, we may apply.” 

Susan Ford, daughter of President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford , hosted the first and only White House prom about a decade later, on May 31, 1975. Susan, a senior at the all-girls Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, Maryland, and her class paid for the evening from fundraising efforts, according to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum . The prom committee made their own tablecloths and flower arrangements.

The menu included punch, miniature quiche lorraine and pigs-in-a-blanket hors d’oeuvres. Entertainment came from rock groups the Outerspace Band and Sandcastle. (The Beach Boys, reportedly, were too expensive.)

Her parents, however, did not serve as chaperones, as they were out of the country. (Ford did speak at the school’s graduation ceremony a few days later.)

Proms Evolve

Political unrest and the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s reduced the popularity of prom, leading many schools to cancel the dances altogether. But the lull didn’t last long. By the 1980s, attending the big dance came back into style, as evidenced by a host of popular, enduring prom-themed movies from the decade, including Pretty in Pink and Footloose . 

However, despite their popularity, proms have not been without controversy. In the Jim Crow South , many schools held segregated proms , a practice that continued well past the passage of civil rights laws. It wasn’t until 2013 that Wilcox County High School in Georgia held its first school-sponsored desegregated prom. In 2010, a school in Fulton, Mississippi barred a lesbian from attending prom with her girlfriend and told her she couldn’t wear a tuxedo. She sued the school after it canceled the dance for all students rather than allow the couple to attend. The school settled and agreed to create a policy banning discrimination or harassment based on gender identity and sexual orientation. In the 2000s, students have held their own alternative—or “anti”—proms with religious, LGBTQ+ and other themes. 

Still, today’s proms are big business: According to a 2015 Visa survey , the average cost of prom was $919 per person, which includes everything from attire and flowers to dinner, tickets, limo services, photography and after parties, as well as the phenomenon of “promposals.” The survey found that American households spent an average of $324 alone on this practice of making elaborate, over-the-top invitations to the dance.

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General Contest Info

After more than two decades, Duck® Brand has made some exciting changes to the 2024 Stuck at Prom® Scholarship Contest. From new judging categories to bigger scholarships, there are more ways to win!

• Increased Scholarship Prizes Duck® Brand is offering the biggest cash prizes, yet. Two grand prize winners that make the most eye-catching Duck Tape® designs—one dress and one tux—will each take home $15,000 and each of the runners-up will receive $1,000.
• Judges’ Choice Categories In addition to the above prizes, three of the top 10 finalists will receive a judges' choice award plus another $1,000. The new categories include Runway Worthy, Most Inspiring and Trust E.’s Choice.

The 2024 contest timeline is as follows:

Entry Period – March 27, 2024 - 12PM ET June 5, 2024

Judging Period – June 12, 2024 - June 19, 2024

Community Voting – June 26, 2024 - July 10, 2024

Winners Announced – On or about July 17, 2024

It’s the coolest scholarship contest around, that’s what. Students are challenged to create and wear their own prom outfits made entirely from Duck Tape for the chance to win scholarship cash!

You do not! We’ve removed the requirement to wear your one-of-a-kind creation to prom. You’ll need to submit at least one photo of you decked out in your Duck Tape® prom attire at a location of your choosing.

Of course you can, although attending prom is no longer a requirement. But if you and your date will both be creating and wearing Duck Tape fashions, you’ll have to enter the contest separately, in either the “dress” or “tux” categories.

Nope! There are two options for entering the Stuck At Prom contest:

1. You can create a written essay that details your outfit as requested on the entry form, or

2. You can create a video that showcases your outfit per the details in the entry form.

Whichever option you choose needs to be submitted when you enter the contest.

Note: If you do create a video, make sure it does not contain any brand names or logos other than Duck® Brand (i.e., TikTok watermark) or music you don’t have written permission to use.

Because each state has its own laws governing contests, it’s difficult for us to offer promotions that can be entered by everyone throughout the US and Canada. Unfortunately, Duck® Brand has no control over those restrictions, and the states listed above prohibit entry to this contest. Some common restrictions include CA & UT for alcohol related contests; MA, MI and VA do not allow tobacco-related contests; FL, NY and RI have more restrictive laws governing prizes of high value and so are often excluded; while Quebec has particularly stringent laws about sweepstakes. Although not legally restrictive, AK & HI are often omitted due to higher shipping costs for distributing prizes

Hey, that’s like asking us to rent your tux or send you a free prom dress! Sorry, but it’s up to individuals and schools to supply their own Duck Tape® to make their prom wear creations.

One (1) First Place Prize – Dress Category: $15,000 will be awarded to the winning Finalist in the Dress Category.

One (1) First Place Prize – Tux Category: $15,000 will be awarded to the winning Finalist in the Tux Category.

Eight (8) Runners Up Prizes: $1,000 Cash Scholarship and Duck® Brand Prize Packs (ARV $100 each) will be awarded to the remaining Finalists in each of the Dress and Tux Categories.

• Three (3) Category Prizes: Additional $1,000 Cash Scholarship

Entry Requirements

We’d love to tell you “everyone is welcomed to enter!” But, you gotta play by the rules. So to enter the contest you must:

• Be at least 14 years of age.
• Be enrolled in high school or home school association (at the high-school level) during the 2023 - 2024 school year.
• Be a legal resident of the United States and the District of Columbus (excluding Tennesee, Maryland, Colorado, Vermont, Nebraska and North Dakota) or a legal resident of Canada (excluding the Province of Quebec)
• Not have been a finalist in any previous Stuck at Prom contests.

At Duck® Brand, we’re inclusive. So, our dress and tux categories are open to anyone – and everyone! Just make sure you meet the criteria for the category and Contest!

Good news! Entering isn’t just fun – it’s easy! Here’s how you do it: Head to the entry form. Then, submit at least one high resolution photo of you decked out in your Duck Tape® prom outfit plus all the required entry info during the contest entry period. If you’re under 18 yrs. old, don’t forget to get your parent’s permission. After you submit, a confirmation email will be sent right to your inbox.

Don’t worry, it’s probably a minor issue. Try this:

• Try using a different Internet browser to post your entry.
• Restart your device and try submitting your entry again.
• Double check that your Internet connection is working.
• Double check that your photo/video file size is not too big.

Still having trouble? Email us at [email protected] with a screenshot and explanation of your issue.

Definitely! But if you do, be sure to include a photography release form signed by the photographer with your submission.

You’re free to create your Duck Tape® prom wear whenever you like. But you can only enter your creation during the official contest entry period.

Copyrights are tricky – and stricter than you think. If your Duck Tape® prom outfit or submission materials use existing work from someone else, it could be a copyright infringement. That means it could be disqualified from entry. So it’s best to avoid outfits that include:

• Characters from movies, books, or video games • Sports teams and sports personalities • Brand names and other logos (including TikTok watermark on video submissions) • Album covers and lyrics from bands or musicians (including music you don’t have written permission to use in video submissions) • Pieces of art • The list goes on and on

We really want to see the cool outfits that come from your imagination! So dream up your own design! If you use any of the above - or any other copyright-protected material - you will be subject to disqualification at the discretion of our Stuck at Prom® and legal teams. For more information on copyright infringement, check out our Official Rules.

Absolutely! As long as you are enrolled in a home school association (at the high-school level) during the 2023 - 2024 school year. And again this year, we’ve removed the requirement to attend prom. See the Official Rules for more information.

Yes! You need to be enrolled in high school or home school association (at the high-school level) during the 2023 - 2024 school year. See the Official Rules for more information.

Sorry! We’ll only accept one (1) submission per Entrant.

It depends! If you’ve entered in the past but didn’t win, good news! You can enter the contest again, but make sure it’s a brand new creation. You cannot reenter the same promwear twice. If you’ve entered in the past but did win a prize, unfortunately you cannot enter the contest again.

Sorry, but once an entry is submitted, it’s final. You can’t change or update your contest entry or any pics you’ve submitted.

You’ll get an email within 5 business days to let you know that your entry is accepted – or if it’s rejected. So once you submit your entry, watch your inbox for info and make sure to check your junk mail!

Not so fast! The submission information for all entries must be approved and verified before we can post photos in our gallery. This stuff takes time.

Here’s how it works: Duck® brand selects a panel of judges, and those judges will determine the finalists based on:

• Workmanship - 20% Workmanship is judged based on the quality, neatness and attention to detail given in creating the outfits and accessories.
• Originality - 20% Originality is judged based on the uniqueness, inventiveness, creativity and original thought of the outfits and accessories.
• Use of Colors - 20% Use of Colors is judged based on the combination, integration and harmony of colors used to create the outfits and accessories.
• Accessories - 20% Accessories are judged based on the creativity and use in accentuating and completing the outfits.
• Use of Duck® Brand Duct Tape - 20% Use of Duck Tape® is judged based on how duct tape is used to construct the pieces of the outfits and accessories.

For the official list of judging criteria, see the Official Rules.

We’ll give you the awesome news by contacting you at the phone and email address you provided in your contest entry.

Finalist & Winner Selection

• A member from the Duck® Brand team will contact you via phone and email with the good news and the paperwork to make it official!
• Your pic will be posted in our spectacular Gallery, where it will compete against other entries in the online community voting phase. After that:
• The Finalist receiving the greatest number of valid votes in the Dress Category will be selected as the winner of the Dress Category and awarded the First Place Prize for the Dress Category.
• The Finalist receiving the greatest number of valid votes in the Tux Category will be selected as the winner of the Tux Category and awarded the First Place Prize in the Tux Category.
• The remaining Finalists will each be awarded a Runner’s Up Prize.
• Three additional Category Prizes will be awarded to three of the Finalists.
• If you do not receive a notification from us prior to the Voting Period, then you unfortunately were not selected as a finalist and we encourage you to enter again next year if you meet the criteria!
• Tell everyone you know. No, really … everyone. Friends, family, people from school, people you pass on the street, teachers, the mailman – EVERYONE. Get them to vote – and spread the word themselves!
• Get to the Internet! Share your entry online using the #StuckatProm hashtag – TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Reddit, your blog… whatever it takes to reach as many people as possible!
• Tell the media! Your local newspaper or TV news station! That can really spread the word and get you votes.
• Feeling stuck? Ask us! We’ll provide you with the tools and support you need to get the word out.

We’ll spread the good news on the StuckAtProm.com site, via email, and via social media on the Duck® Brand and Duck Tape® accounts – we'll even release the news to the local and national media!

If you win, you’ll be the first to know! We’ll contact you at the phone and email address you provided in your entry before we make a public announcement about the winner!

After Duck® Brand’s panel of judges selects the top 10 finalists, they will then award three of these finalists to receive a judges’ choice award. The winners of these awards will be announced when the Grand Prize winners are determined.

These new award categories include:

• Runway Worthy From trend-forward designs to dazzling statement accessories, this judges' choice award highlights the Duck Tape® promwear the judges can likely see strutting on the runway.
• Most Inspiring Tell the story! Our judges love to hear the why and how Stuck at Prom® participants create their Duck Tape® promwear. This judges' choice award will be based on the story behind the dress or tux shared through a video or essay.
• Trust E.'s Choice All Stuck at Prom® participants each showcase exceptional skill, creativity and great determination in entering this competitive contest. In honor of this, the beloved face of Duck® Brand, Trust E. Duck, will name their top choice for this judges' choice award.

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What's Your Prom Dress Style

Win a Prom Dress Worn on ABC's One Life to Live

Beginning Friday, May 14th, the show will air a three-day musical prom extravaganza called "Starr X'd Lovers: The Musical." It follows characters Starr and Cole as they overcome family drama and make it to the big dance. Much like Glee , the cast breaks out into song and dance, reenacting hits like "Battlefield" and "I Gotta Feeling," while wearing stylish dresses that steal the spotlight.

Tell Seventeen in 300 words or less why you should rock one of these looks at prom. Include a teacher or guidance counselor reference as well as your dress size to enter now. Winners will be matched up with dresses in their size. Good luck!

Don't forget that you can also seek out free prom dresses at one of the organizations near you that are part of the DonateMyDress.org network.

Countdown to Prom 2023!

Crazy Creative Promposals Your Date Will Love

10 Ways to Sell Your Prom Dress and Make Major $$$

57 Cute Prom Quotes You'll Want to Steal

YouTube's Larray Shares His Biggest Prom Regrets

The Ultimate Prom Playlist

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Everything You Need For Prom Is on This Checklist

These Prom Themes Are Soooo Creative

FYI: You *Can* Buy A Prom Dress For Under $100

27 Unique Prom Dresses You'll Be Obsessed With

We Found Prom Tuxedos You'll Want to Shop ASAP

Transgender Teen Denied Entry to Prom for Wearing Dress

Posted: April 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 10, 2024

Police were called to a school in Alabama after a transgender student was allegedly banned from entering their prom because she refused to change out of the dress she had worn for the event. The student at Section High School in Jackson County, Alabama, attended the prom on April 6 with a group of friends.

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With winter and a rare solar eclipse behind us, high school students and those who love them are turning their attention to prom.

We love prom season here at Delaware Online/The News Journal — the creative prom-posals, the beautiful dresses and tuxes, flowers and friends groups and smiling couples, some of whom may be in love.

We plan to get to as many proms as we can this season to capture the special moments of this special time in young people's lives.

Follow along with us.

You can see which proms we plan to attend by following us on Instagram @DelawareOnline .

See highlights from 2023 Delaware proms

Where to find prom dresses online.

The big dance deserves a special outfit. Here's where to discover the dress of your dreams online.

Prom gowns online: 2024 prom fashions from Reviewed.com

16th annual ‘Belle of the Ball’ prom dress giveaway coming up

Belle of the ball prom dress giveaway set for april 20.

Attending their high school prom is a dream of many girls, but for some it's simply too expensive. That's the motivation behind "Belle of the Ball," the ninth annual prom dress event sponsored by Wayne County Commission Chair Alisha Bell (D-Detroit). The giveaway will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, 16500 Tireman, Detroit.

DETROIT, Mich. (FOX 2) - Attending their high school prom is a dream of many girls, but for some it's simply too expensive.

That's the motivation behind "Belle of the Ball," the ninth annual prom dress event sponsored by Wayne County Commission Chair Alisha Bell (D-Detroit). The giveaway will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan, 16500 Tireman, Detroit.

Girls can choose free formal and semiformal dresses, shoes, purses and jewelry that were donated. Some items are new; some are gently used. Dresses are arranged by size.

Volunteers and businesses have donated dresses and accessories. 

Items are arranged at the Boys & Girls Club the night before, and an hour before doors open, girls are already in line.

Bell is grateful toward the Boys & Girls Club for offering the building to host "Belle of the Ball." In addition, board members and employees of The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Division have donated dresses, accessories and clothing racks.

For more information on the event, call 313-224-0936.

Wayne County Commission Chairwoman Alisha Bell with two young women who got prom dresses at a previous event. 

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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First refuelling for Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov floating NPP

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The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactor units. In such reactors, nuclear fuel is not replaced in the same way as in standard NPPs – partial replacement of fuel once every 12-18 months. Instead, once every few years the entire reactor core is replaced with and a full load of fresh fuel.

The KLT-40S reactor cores have a number of advantages compared with standard NPPs. For the first time, a cassette core was used, which made it possible to increase the fuel cycle to 3-3.5 years before refuelling, and also reduce by one and a half times the fuel component in the cost of the electricity produced. The operating experience of the FNPP provided the basis for the design of the new series of nuclear icebreaker reactors (series 22220). Currently, three such icebreakers have been launched.

The Akademik Lomonosov was connected to the power grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020.

Electricity generation from the FNPP at the end of 2023 amounted to 194 GWh. The population of Pevek is just over 4,000 people. However, the plant can potentially provide electricity to a city with a population of up to 100,000. The FNPP solved two problems. Firstly, it replaced the retiring capacities of the Bilibino Nuclear Power Plant, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya Thermal Power Plant, which is more than 70 years old. It also supplies power to the main mining enterprises located in western Chukotka. In September, a 490 km 110 kilovolt power transmission line was put into operation connecting Pevek and Bilibino.

Image courtesy of TVEL

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