Enchantment Under the Sea – Elida High School Prom 2017
by: Leslie Creighton
Elida High School Juniors and Seniors enjoyed an evening “under the sea” this past Saturday
evening during their Prom held at the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Department.


Plans for prom began well before Christmas with the Junior class deciding on their
theme and colors. Being frugal with their funds, the junior class did not want to
purchase kits or prefabricated decorations, so a little bit of creativity was necessary to
make their design dreams come true. With the help and advice from several class
parents a plan came together. Organizers thought that the size of the facility warranted
a large focal point item so a large sailboat was spotted and secured. The boat,
coincidentally belonged to Kathy Freeman Smith, who taught English at EHS in the
early 90’s. She was glad to loan the boat to the Elida kids when asked by one of her
former students. The class and their sponsor worked tirelessly on decorations at
school (after their classwork was completed of course). They made six large
chandeliers of fabric and ribbon in colors of the sea. Centerpieces were made using
burlap, shells and starfish and were finished off with the addition of goldfish and even a
few “Tiger Fish” on the dessert table. Homemade coral was constructed using heavy
cardboard from a local feed-store and spray foam insulation. A coat of paint in sea
colors and a splash of glitter finished them off! Balloons became bubbles and special
Christmas Lights gave the underwater effect they were looking for. Many of the
decorations and supplies were refurbished items from prom a couple of years ago as
well as decorating fabric and dishware borrowed from Floyd community member Judy
Chandler who in the true spirit of generosity was willing to share her supplies. The
Treasure Chest was a large trunk belonging to Johnny Lieb which came across the
ocean with his ancestors from Germany centuries ago.

Parents and Teachers helped provide the meal of Prime Rib, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans,
Salad, Hot Rolls and Cheesecake as well as Punch, Cupcakes, Fresh Fruit and a Chocolate
Fountain for the Dessert Table. The meal was served by several 8 th graders and Freshmen from
EHS. Another parent secured a DJ system which allowed the kids to enjoy a night of dancing
under the sea! The night ended with the announcement of Prom Queen, Taylor Epps and Prom
King, Kaull Burton.

This event could not have happened without the support from EHS Administration and
Teachers, the class sponsor, Debra Davidson, Parents, Grandparents and others who worked tirelessly in support of our school and kids, as well as the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office for their continued community involvement.