On April 25, 2025, an imbibing Vietnam veteran and legal eagle was enjoying the view from a balcony overlooking 8th Street where the newly relocated five star restaurant from Market Street was conducting an outdoor pre-prom party on the freshly mowed outdoor surface. The young men were appropriately clad in suits/tuxedos and their ladies for the event were lovely in their gowns.
The graduating seniors from some of Gig City’s most prestigious institutions of learning were celebrating with their companions at the end of the school year.
Across the Inner City, at the base of Missionary Ridge on Derby Street, a similar event was being held at Orange Grove Center in the cafeteria appropriately named “The Royal Prom”.
399 clients, volunteers, parents, and onlookers enjoyed the events and reveled in the festivities of the evening.
In an article, “Orange Grove Center Hosts Royal Prom for Individuals with IDD” on May 2, 2025 in the Living Well section, a well written article described the physical decorations, the magical atmosphere, and music played by KZ 106.5 classic rock disc jockey, Max Templeton, from 6:00-9:00 PM.
The use of the term IDD (intellectual and developmental disabilities) erroneously suggests and understates the setting enjoyed by all in attendance.
The fast and slow dance music from the 1960s-1980s era produced dance floor participants on walkers, in wheel chairs, or just the steady support of a volunteer, parent, or fellow client.
The combined conglomerate of those present included the poor, the wealthy, black, white, and other minorities that were part of the happy crowd.
The student volunteers, faculty representatives from local high schools, and Miss Teen Chattanooga, contributed to the success of the evening.
No disrespect is intended towards those young people that attended the party and dance at Prom Number 1.
However, those attending Prom Number 2 represent the microcosm goal of what Chattanooga/Hamilton County/Tennessee/America should strive to become.
(The only missing ingredient was an ample supply of Kleenex tissue to compensate for the indoor pollen problem of those first time attendees and supporters.)
If you have additional information about one of Mr. Summers' articles or have suggestions or ideas about a future Chattanooga area historical piece, please contact him at jsummers@summersfirm.com)