There was much merriment at Michael’s at The Grove in Bethel (formerly Cappellaro’s), Tuesday, December 9, as members, friends, and family of the Newtown Senior Center gathered for the Annual Holiday Party.

Sean “Big Daddy” of James Daniel Entertainment had partygoers out on the dance floor from the 11 am start, providing music of the past four decades. From pop to country to ballads — with a sprinkling of holiday songs, of course — the music lifted spirits and lifted seniors from their chairs onto the dance floor. Line dancers spun across the polished floor, couples showed off their ballroom dance techniques, and free spirits just moved their feet to the beat.

“It’s a chance to shake your tail feathers,” laughed Ellen Poruvanik, taking her mother, Martha, on to the floor to rock and roll.

“We wouldn’t have anyone other than Big Daddy,” declared Senior Center Director Marilyn Place. “We love him, and he’ll play anything we ask,” she said.

Nondancers were happy to line up at the appetizer bar, where Michael’s new owners Michael and Linda Shakro, daughter Tiffany, and son Michael had set up a spread of crackers and cheese, vegetables and dip, and other snacks. A bar offered cider and eggnog, as well as other drinks to make the event that much merrier.

The Annual Holiday Party attracted not only longtime members of the Senior Center, this year, but many of the newest members, as well. All were looking forward to a wonderful afternoon, and only a very few had been deterred from attending by the gloomy skies and heavy rain coming down, said Ms Place.

One of the center’s newer members, Beverly Panettiere, circulated between the festively set tables, stopping to chat and to give Senior Center Pilates instructor Claudia Landwehr a big hug.

“The Senior Center has saved me,” said Ms Panettiere, providing her with wonderful classes and introducing her to wonderful people. “I love the holiday party. It’s the beginning of the holiday season, and it’s so uplifting,” she said.

The chatter died down a bit as Ms Place and her assistant, Judy Thomas, headed to the front of the room for a welcoming holiday toast. Raising their glasses of sparkling cider, Ms Place made a wish for “memories bright, and spirits light… My wish that every cup overflows in blessings rich and eternal.”

Dancing, visiting, and laughing, the party continued, with only a quiet pause as diners dug into the feast from the buffet station. Salad, a choice of top sirloin, walnut and apple stuffed chicken breast, stuffed filet of sole, penne with broccoli and roasted red peppers, fresh steamed vegetables, and roasted potatoes provided options for all appetites. A dessert of apple strudel, coffee and tea wrapped up the meal nicely.

Then it was back to celebrating the season in high spirits, for all who were there.

“Michael’s has done an amazing job,” said Ms Place. “It’s a wonderful event.”