WALTON _ Dancing for charity is the new theme of the Walton Chamber of Commerce dances being held on the first and third Saturday of every month at the Walton Grange Hall.
Maureen Wacha, Walton Chamber president, said the group began holding the dances in November, and the events have become so popular, they are generating income that is being put in a dedicated account, which will be donated to a local not-for-profit every time the balance reaches $1,000.
Wacha said the account balance is now at $500, and the first recipient is the Delaware Valley Hospital.
Wacha said the number of people attending the dances ranges from about 45 to 90. The dances draw people from Pennsylvania, Hancock, Unadilla, Downsville and other area communities. She said the group usually ranges in age from about 40 to 70.
"People from everywhere and of every age are invited to attend," Wacha said.
Music is provided by deejays Steve and Kevin Rutherford, who play a mix of music styles and requests.
"There is a lot of country, waltzes, line dancing, jitterbug and there are some people who like to polka," Wacha said. "Some of the people who come never sit down and dance and dance all night, but others come just to sit and listen to the music and socialize."
Daisy Schultz of Walton said she has been going to the dances for a while.
"I enjoy it because I love to dance," Schultz said. "It's fun, and I meet a lot of people. That's what I like."
Faye Anderson of Hancock said she often carpools with friends to come to the Walton events.
"My sister lives in Walton, and she told me to come because I would really enjoy the dances," Anderson said. "I wish they would have them more often because it is a nice dance floor and we have a great time."
Wacha said the dances are from 7 to 11 p.m. and admission is $4, which also includes refreshments consisting of snacks, coffee, tea and cake. The refreshments are provided by the dancers, who take turns contributing baked goods.
Schultz said she usually contributes brownies or banana bread.
"I say that by the time you have your coffee and cake, you have your $4 worth," Wacha said with a laugh. "And people seem to enjoy bringing something and sharing. It makes you feel like everybody knows everybody. On many nights, I bring cheese and crackers because it's easier than baking."
On Saturday, July 18, the regular refreshments will be replaced by a potluck dinner. Wacha said everyone is invited to contribute to the dinner, but a dish to pass is not required to attend.
Anderson said she is planning to bring a cabbage salad to contribute.
Wacha said people like the potluck dinners because "it's very country. You don't find this kind of event in Manhattan."
Schultz said her daughter is getting married soon and the rehearsal dinner is on the night of the potluck, but she is hoping to get to the dance after the rehearsal.
"I don't want to miss it if I can help it," Schultz said. "I like it so much."
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Patricia Breakey can be reached at 746-2894 or at stardelhi@stny.rr.com.
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