Residents Enjoy 8th Annual Senior Prom At Cape Cod Senior Residences

Originally published in the Bourne Enterprise. Read the full story here.

The joy in the room was palpable as residents, accompanied by friends and family, were dressed to the nines for Cape Cod Senior Residences’ eighth annual Senior Prom on June 27. The facility is on Dr. Julius Kelley Lane in Pocasset.

EnrichedLIFE Director Lisa Chinappi organized the night of fun, dancing and joy for residents of the independent and assisted living community. The beloved tradition includes dinner, dancing and the crowning of a Prom King and Queen. This year, John Araujo and his niece Marls Tucker were presented with the Prom King and Queen crowns.

This year’s “Masquerade” theme was reflected in the ornamental masks, colorful necklaces and gold decorations around the room. DJ Ronnie, of RD Entertainment, provided the music for the event.

As attendees entered the event, they were invited to take their picture with antique cars donated by the Rusty Nuts Club of Wareham. Following pictures, attendees enjoyed a dinner of lobster bisque, flank steak, baked stuffed shrimp and masquerade themed cupcakes.

Many residents attended with their family members. Betty Cahill, who was attending the prom for the first time, was accompanied by her son, Peter Cahill. Ms. Cahill called the event “absolutely wonderful” and was most looking forward to dancing.

Lillian Vaccarello, who will celebrate her 103rd birthday this month, attended the prom for her third time this year and was accompanied by her daughter, Dianne Vaccarello.

“It’s been wonderful,” Lillian Vaccarello said. “She [Ms. Chinappi] does a great job.”

Grace Arsenault, a resident attending with her friends, echoed Ms. Varccarello’s sentiment. “It’s all very festive,” she added.

Muriel Conkey attended the prom with Eric Branco, a maintenance employee at The Residences. This was their second prom attending together.

“I’m with my best friend,” Ms. Conkey said.

The evening was extra special for Janet Dunne, who was also celebrating her 89th birthday. Ms. Dunne was accompanied by her daughters Cheryl Dunne and Kathy Patterson, who volunteered to help residents with their hair and makeup earlier in the day.

Cheryl Dunne and Ms. Patterson said they were looking forward to “making memories” and dancing.

Donna McGovern, who has attended all eight proms stated, “Every year it gets more beautiful.”