93 years and still going

Resident celebrates birthday with ballroom dancing

By Puakea Olaisha Anderson Special to the Michigan Citizen LIVONIA — People came from all over the metro area in their most dapper ballroom attire to celebrate Detroiter Houston Pritchett’s 93rd birthday. Mr. Pritchett, the father of seven children, celebrated his birthday at Burton Manor in Livonia with family and friends. “I am crazy about a party,” Pritchett told this reporter. “(And) this a good party!” More than 300 people attended. There were vendors, an open buffet and a cash bar. “So far, I am having a good time,” said Robert Wilkerson, a party guest. “The ladies are looking good and I’m going to make my way to see them.” Many guests came prepared with a dance partner; singles were paired. Pritchett dedicates his love for ballroom dancing to his instructor, Ron Jackson, who teaches five ballroom classes every week. “Ron Jackson had a big thing to do with me ballrooming. He showed me the ropes,” he says. Pritchett says he’s been dancing the hustle and ballroom since 2000. However, he tributes his longevity to exercise. Exercise is the main thing, he says. “When I’m dancing, I don’t hurt. I enjoy doing that.” Pritchett says he walks three miles in under an hour, three days a week. For more information about learning to ballroom dance, contact Ron Jackson at 313.758.9476.