Biltmore Prom

The reports on the $40-million renovation of the Biltmore Hotel brought back memories of my first real date, when I was a senior at L.A. High, and my date a junior at USC.

The occasion was the USC junior prom, and after much discussion pro and con my mother allowed me to go with an older man.

I had a beautiful white chiffon and lace dress that was to do double duty for the prom and graduation.

My date arrived in a taxi with an orchid corsage, and a very thrilled 16-year-old was escorted into fairyland.

I can’t remember the exact date, but it was either late 1923 or early 1924. Anyhow, the Biltmore was new, and I shall always remember the beauty of the Rendezvous Court and Ballroom.

I’m looking forward to seeing the restoration.

CHARLOTTE SULTAN HARVEY

Arroyo Grande