DEAR ABBY: I am a 17-year-old girl who just attended my first prom at another school. I was appalled by the fact that tickets cost $95. (At my school they cost $10 a couple and seniors go free.)
My advice to "Penniless" is: If you need extra money, call some local business and explain your dilemma. Many plant nurseries are very busy during the spring and could probably use an extra hand for a couple of Saturdays before the prom.
I would also advise making some adjustments to prom night: Instead of renting a limousine, clean up your -- or your parents' -- car for the big night. Call restaurants around town and ask if they have a set menu. (They usually give you a choice of two dishes and everyone makes their selection in advance.) The set menu is usually much cheaper, and you are spared the embarrassment of not having enough money to pay the bill. To save gas money, ask another couple to ride with you and split the cost of the fuel.
If you still can't afford it, ask the girl and explain your dilemma. I'm sure she'll be excited and willing to share the cost -- but still as "more than friends." (I know I would.)
I hope this is helpful. Don't skip your senior prom. It's something you will never forget. -- GINNY SMITH, LAKE CHARLES, LA.
DEAR GINNY AND THE MANY READERS WHO OFFERED THEIR PROM NIGHT SUGGESTIONS: Prom night has evolved into an end-of-the-year bash for many high school students and their parents, and it's not unheard-of for kids to drop hundreds of dollars on limousines, hotel rooms for all-night after-prom parties, and other expensive items. It's refreshing to see that with a little ingenuity and cooperation among friends, it's still possible to have a memorable night without breaking the bank.