NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio -- From rumbas, cha-chas and sambas to foxtrots, polkas and waltzes, North Olmsted Senior Center members better bring their dancing shoes to an upcoming fundraiser.
“John Kowalski is an entertainer who reached out about a fundraiser,” North Olmsted Senior Center Activities Coordinator Beth L Reitz said.
“They were looking for more venues for dances.
“We’re always looking for something new and fun. Seniors are always asking for dances.”
That’s what they’re going to get -- and more -- when Kowalski hosts a fundraiser from 1 to 3 p.m. April 14 in the Community Cabin, 28114 Lorain Road.
The $3 admission includes light refreshments.
The North Olmsted Senior Center will host a fundraiser dance April 14 in the Community Cabin. John Benson/cleveland.com
“There’s a growing group of people -- either semi-retired or retired -- that do what we call ballroom style dancing, which basically encompasses everything,” said Kowalski, who previously has hosted dances at the North Olmsted Senior Center.
“It’s great for their bodies, but also -- as studies keep coming out -- it’s incredible for their minds,” he said.
“That’s because when you dance, your brain is firing in different ways. You’re also processing memories connected with that song or perhaps the lyrics.”
The emcee will be performing music from the 1950s to the 1980s on his $6,000 keyboard, which includes a digital vocal harmonizer.
“All the music is live -- all different styles and genres,” he said.
Sponsoring the fundraiser is a Northeast Ohio senior who, along with her husband, were avid dancers.
After he passed away, she wanted to keep the music going for others.
“That’s her way of contributing to the dance community,” Kowalski said.
“How it works as a fundraiser is she pays me, so there’s a reduced price. It’s a really good deal.”
Reitz said her seniors are ready to dance the afternoon away.
“They love dancing. They love music and just having a good time,” she said.
For more information, call the senior center at 440-777-8100.
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