Richmond is a city steeped in history, but its also known for its socially conscious populous. This past Friday, I witnessed both of these aspects in action as I stepped waaaaaay back into the past and attended the Virginia League for Planned Parenthood sponsored an "80s Prom" at Gallery 5.

This was the first year of what is going to be an annual event, and it appears that it was a big success. Energy was high once the crowd hit the dance floor. The best aspects of the 80s are the music and the style, and there was a variation of both. There were the hits from "Video Killed the Radio Star" and "Jesse's Girl" to Doug E. Fresh and the Get Fresh Crew and the more moody tunes from Joy Division and The Cure.

People's outfits were just as varied. There were the classic powder blue tuxedos along with more than a few Madonna look-a-likes.

Now, I wasn't even born until the very end of 1987, so my fondest memories of the 80s come from watching "The Wedding Singer." I wasn't quite sure how to dress but I figured my best bet would be to hit up a thrift store and see what I could find. I ended up with a deep v-neck shirt, some fluorescent red short-shorts, a pair of knee socks along with high top converse and a few accessories to top it all off. Basically, my aim was to look as ridiculous as possible. My lovely date opted for the classic poofy dress and sideways ponytail.

Gallery 5 proved to be the perfect venue for the event. There wasn't much of a crowd when we first arrived (fashionably late by 30 minutes) and with this being the first go at this 80s Prom thing there wasn't really much telling what kind of crowd would show. Another half-hour later and after everyone had made a couple trips to the bar, the dance floor was the place to be as the DJ kept pounding out requests and dedications.

The night culminated in a special performance of "Thriller" by the Planned Parenthood prom committee. The dance number was the actualization of all the apparent hard work and coordination put into pulling off such an event.

All of the funds raised during the night went towards the Virginia League for Planned Parenthood, which can use all the support they can get right now after suffering what many have been seen as unfair attacks by the state and federal government in the way of misleading bills.

Overall, the night was a great culmination of what Richmond is all about: Having a good time while helping a good cause. If you couldn't make it this year, you'll surely have the chance next year to hop onto what's sure to become another fine Richmond tradition.