.jpg)
The Eagle Lake Senior Citizens’ Dance has sprung right back into life under a different name after finding a new home at the East Bernard American Legion Hall, throwing their first dance back in action last Friday night, April 4.
After hosting the very last Eagle Lake Senior Citizens’ dance at the Eagle Lake Community Center back in December 2024, a tradition which lasted for more than 32 years, the event is finally back, rebranded as the “First Friday Dance” set to be held on the first Friday of every other month, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
A packed house was in attendance for the first dance back in action and first edition of the rebranded event, keeping the same format as the previous name did, with $10 tickets, music played by the Blue Denim Band, a potluck feast, door prizes and a cash bar providing sodas and beer.
The Supak family, the original hosts of the dance that started in Eagle Lake in 1992, were able to bring the event to the American Legion Hall in East Bernard after a hiatus following their inability to continue hosting the dances at the Eagle Lake Community Center, which they did so for 27 plus years.
Helen Supak, the wife of Harry Supak, who’s spearheaded the events since they first began, said it wasn’t until the American Legion Hall in East Bernard contacted the family having heard their story, wanting to work a deal and give the dance a new home.
“The American Legion Hall here contacted us and saw our story, and wanted to bring the dance here,” said Helen. “We worked out a deal and we’ll be holding these dances now every other first Friday of the month. We’re happy to bring it back given the circumstances and are happy people have this event back to enjoy.”
Marshall Marik, a member of the East Bernard American Legion Post 226 and one of the coordinators for the event, said it was the “right thing to do” to bring the dance down the East Bernard, having met one of the Blue Denim Band members, Martha Jones, daughter of Harry and Helen, at the Senior Citizens’ Dance in Sealy and heard the story behind the EL dance coming to an end.
“When I heard their story, I knew we had to try and work something out to bring it back because of the unfortunate circumstances that led to the dance’s end,” said Marik. “They are amazing people, and this is something the community of East Bernard needs as well, so it’s a win-win situation for both of us. They shouldn’t have to hire security or pay to use the kitchen and fridge, and we’re glad to be able to help them out and bring this wonderful event here.”
The next edition of the dance will be held on Friday, June 6, from 7:3010:30 p.m., with music to be performed by the Red Ravens.
