We had a great time, flashing back to the 80’s, at our inaugural Retro Homecoming dance at the Par-A-Dice Ballroom in East Peoria Saturday night.
Dacade of Decadence frontman Mark Lee sang and screamed perfectly in synch with the hair metal hits of that era (dude can still hit the high notes!), while Saved By The Bell’s Screech – Dustin Diamond – hung out, socialized and took pics with the hundreds who made it the throwback event. DJ Red Hot Brian Scott bumped out great dance tunes from the 80’s to present day to keep the crowd on its feet. Most of the attendees were in some form of 80’s gear, ranging from prom dresses and tuxes to the casual night out attire and tough-guy burnout (Tim) looks of The Big 80’s. We appreciate the time they put into their outfits and costumes.
Before the clock struck midnight, Screech announced the winners of the King and Queen best-dressed contest, as voted on by attendees. The winners were the Zimmermans, from Pekin. The two had gone on the internet prior and Googled, “vintage clothes.” They ended up finding their gear from a California company. He even shaved lines into the side of his head to add to his pastel look, while she was rockin’ a sequined dress with Madonna-like lace gloves and fishnet stockings. It was worth it, as they took home $500 for their efforts and had a helluva good time with their friends in the process.
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Tim brought back his mullet for the occasion and Anna rocked a Madonna-influenced 80’s dress with Chuck Taylor kicks. Me, well, I went with authentic 90’s gear from my Morning Mix TV days on WMBD-31. We’re already planning on the second annual Retro Homecoming next fall with Peoria’s classic rock station, 95.5, GLO and thanks to the Par-A-Dice for hosting, along with TSS Photography for taking “official” dance photos and Goodwill of Central Illinois, plus our sister stations at Cumulus Peoria!
Doc Watson
