Let’s head back to the April 1986 pages of the Optimist when Delta debutants were preparing for a grand ball.
The tradition of “debut” in which young women are formally presented to take their place in adult society has its roots in English Royalty, but two South Delta girls were learning it was just as exciting as years ago.
Diane Write, 17, of Tsawwassen and Johanna Wickie, 16, of Ladner would be formally presented to Lieutenant Governor Robert G Rogers and his wife at the Annual Military Ball on May 3 that year at the Hotel Vancouver.
The two girls, along with North Delta resident Lisa Waines, 17, were among 34 young women from as far away as Calgary who would appear as debutants at that year’s ball.
It was expected to be the largest ball held since its beginnings in 1946, and three ballrooms would be required to hold an anticipated 1,000 guests.
The debutants would be accompanied by escorts, family and invited guests.
