By Beth David, Editor
The residents of Oxford Residences, a 62+ community, enjoyed a “Blue Hawaii” themed prom on Friday, 6/12/26, complete with dancing, lots of good food, and a Prom Queen.
Louise Sylvia, 106, is the most mature resident of the complex, and she was enjoying the music, the company of her daughter Pat Sylvia (aging), and some sweet treats.
Louise said she would pass on the dancing, though.
Her secret to long life?
“Kale soup and olive oil,” she said. “I was brought up that way. We put olive oil on everything.”
She said it is part of her Portuguese heritage. She also laughed easily and quickly, but she had to leave early because she was expecting guests at 8 p.m.
A seamstress by trade, Ms. Sylvia was married for 30 years and has two sons, one daughter, two grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.
Andrew Romano, Select Board member and North Fairhaven Improvement Association President, who was there to judge the contests, expressed surprise when he learned Ms. Sylvia was 106.
“My oldest son is 83,” she answered quickly. “So I’d better be up there.”
The events included a hula dancing contest, costume contest, and the choosing of a prom queen and two princesses.
Barbara Lanagan won a gift card to Blue Point Restaurant for winning the Hula Dance contest.
Joan Carlen won a gift card to Market Basket for the best costume.
Mr. Romano said it was the green that did it.
Shirley Lawton was named Prom Queen, and showed off her dance moves with organizer Chip Sylvia. Princesses were Louise Sylvia and Theresa.
“I was not expecting that, but it made me feel good,” said Ms. Lawton. “I love it. Thanks to Chip (for organizing it). He’s such a good guy.”
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- Chip Sylvia crowns the Prom Queen, Shirley Lawton, while princesses, Louise Sylvia (LEFT) and Theresa (RIGHT) look on during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- Prom Queen, Shirley Lawton, and Chip Sylvia show off some fancy dance moves to “Dancing Queen,” during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- Contestants show off their hula dance moves during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- Contestants show off their hula dance moves during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- Barbara Lanagan poses for the cameras after winning the hula dance contest during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- Louise Sylvia, 106, gives a smile for the local free sheet during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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- L-R: Andrew Romano shares a laugh with Louise Sylvia, 106, and her daughter Pat Sylvia during the Senior Prom at the Oxford Residences in Fairhaven on 6/12/26. Photo by Beth David.
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