Though rain poured outside, Colton's Hutton Community Center welcomed seniors for an afternoon of Christmas fun for a few hours during the senior Christmas Dance last Saturday. Twinkling lights and festive oversize ornaments helped set the mood as seniors were ushered into an environment that hoped to capture the spirit of Christmas magic. "It was extremely Christmas-y with lots of decor," said Heidi Strutz, a recreation coordinator with the Colton Community Services. "There were lights from the ceilings, lights in the lobby, and we had our over-8 foot-Christmas tree up. We wanted to really transform the area from the outside to the inside." The afternoon rain meant less visitors that afternoon but those who did come enjoyed an afternoon of refreshments, a light meal and live entertainment performed by Curb Appeal, who entertained seniors with their renditions of popular songs from the 1950s. The group are regular performers for the seniors, explained Strutz. On an almost monthly basis, the center hosts dance events like this for the seniors, which many take the opportunity to participate in. "The seniors really like [the dances]," said Strutz. "It's something they look forward to because it's a point of communication and socialization for them and it's just a good time. They enjoy seeing their friends. Sometimes they work during the day or have other commitments, so for them, it's like their own little party. Getting out and being active does a lot for them."

Hutton Center Transformed to Christmas Wonderland for Senior Dance