On Thursday, April 23, 2026, the Ocean City Community Center hosted its first annual Senior Citizens’ Prom. Festive prom decor was provided by Maryann McElroy, senior center coordinator, and her staff. Prom goers were treated to a balloon “photo corner,” sponsored by Home Health Care Provider, Right @ Home. Marie Cinolauro, human resource director, and photographer Diane Cherry collaborated to create magnificent portraits that will be framed and delivered to the seniors at a later date. Local DJ Jack Fahey provided an outstanding collection of dance music. Seniors enjoyed a delicious luncheon prepared by head chef Keenan McPeak and his culinary staff. For attending seniors, the prom proved to be the highlight of their week.
“This is the first prom I have ever been to,” gushed Michele Sorento. “I never went to any of my high school proms.” Sorento went on to say, “I like to dance, and I love the decorations, especially the disco ball.” As Sorento headed to the dance floor, her friend, Marie Sherma, chimed in, “I like to dance too, and I’m so excited to be here.” Sherma continued, “The prom is so well organized, the food is delicious, and disco is my style of dance music.” Sherma looked into the crowd and thoughtfully said, “This prom brings back so many memories of my own high school prom.”
Mario and Patricia Curcio have a prom story for the books! In 1957, they attended their Germantown High School Prom located in Philadelphia. Mario and Patricia dated on and off until they were 21. The two parted ways and went on to marry different people, having children with their respective spouses. Decades later, through mutual friends, they were reunited, rekindling their teenage romance. They fell in love all over again. In 1989, Mario and Patricia were married and have loved and cared for each other ever since. Attending the Senior Citizen Prom, Mario laughed, saying, “I was nervous while getting dressed for the prom today. I felt like I was getting married! We even kissed this morning!”
Michele and Mike Potts, married for 49 years, took great joy in participating in the Senior Citizens’ Prom. “It’s so nice to see everyone in their gowns and suits, they look so nice,” said Michele Potts.
DJ Jack Fahey played a variety of music that got the crowd up and on the dance floor. Although disco music was the crowd’s favorite, songs like Shake, Rattle and Roll, Do The Twist, and Run Around Sue proved wildly popular. Prom goers happily danced themselves right back to their high school days.
For an additional indulgence, lady prom goers were treated to a complimentary manicure. “Miss Michelle” encouraged the ladies to choose their favorite nail polish color and enjoy being pampered. “I like polishing the ladies’ nails at these events,” smiled Michelle, “It makes them feel good, and it makes me feel good, too.”
What would a prom be without a king and queen? Attendees voted Mario Curcio as prom king and Barbara Wunderlich as prom queen. Mayor
Jay Gillian presented Barbara with the “key” to the city and presented Mario with a crown fit for a king.
With shimmering gowns and dapper suits, the Senior Citizens’ Prom was a memorable experience for all participants. Prom magic just isn’t for the young but for the young at heart. Proof that age is just a number. The contagious rhythm of laughter, enduring friendships, and the classic charm of glancing back to younger days all contributed to making the senior citizens shining stars.
Roseann Smith is a local freelance writer who resides in Brigantine . A retired Atlantic City school teacher, Roseann enjoys writing feature and human interest stories. On a good day, Roseann is an artist in training.
