SIPPIN’ IN STYLE … Smiles and waves from the Soda Pop Station.
ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CLOCK … Gene Zenz, local guitarist and performer.
(PHOTOS BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
ORGANIZERS … Some of the event coordinators smile for a quick photo while the night begins to kick off.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Montpelier Senior Center was swinging and swaying Tuesday evening as community members gathered for an old-fashioned Sock Hop fundraiser.
With doors opening at 4:00 p.m., the event brought out local seniors and supporters alike for an evening filled with music, food, and fundraising fun.
Guests were treated to a classic diner-style dinner beginning at 4:30 p.m. The menu featured juicy hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, and a nostalgic array of handmade soda floats in a variety of flavors.
From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., the main attraction kept the crowd on their feet: local entertainer Gene Zenz performed beloved hits from the 1950s and 60s with nothing but his voice and acoustic guitar.
His lively renditions brought joy and movement to the dance floor, where couples twirled and tapped along to golden oldies.
A highlight of the night was a raffle featuring a flurry of gift card baskets, alongside a 50/50 drawing. The energy was lighthearted and generous, with laughter echoing off the center’s well-worn floors – a fitting reminder of why the fundraiser was held.
All proceeds from the evening are being directed toward the Montpelier Senior Center’s maintenance fund, with a specific goal in mind: replacing the center’s flooring.
Organizers hope that with the community’s continued support, the well-loved space can keep hosting events for years to come on sturdy new ground.
As the evening wrapped up with smiling faces and satisfied stomachs, the spirit of the community was stronger than ever. After all, in Montpelier, being there isn’t just an invitation – it’s the only way not to be square.