by Sherry Bowman-Kluck
The evening of Friday, February 11, at the Berlin Seventh Day Baptist Church was reminiscent of the 1950s era. The atmosphere was created by a black and white checkered diner complemented with red, high top tables and swivel stools, windows glowing with dancing paper silhouettes and nostalgic items variously placed highlighting the juke box and checked dance floor. Various adults and teen staff were dressed in poodle skirts and saddle shoes, letter sweaters, pedal-pushers with scarves and leather jackets.
At the counter, kitchen staff dressed in white overcoats and white paper hats were conspicuous, much like you’d see at a Johnny Rocket Diner of today. Flame-broiled burgers, dogs and chicken from the “fired up” hot rod menu with “screamin” fries or onion rings and a side of slaw were popular selections. Waiting for their meal, couples gave an ear to all the oldies but goodies music of the generation while amorously sipping handmade milkshakes or root beer floats from the same glass. Each guest received their spread in a basket to take back to the table following a call over the loud speaker when their order was up, similar to the diners of yesteryear. Old-time bottles of coke and root beer were served to top off everyone’s palate.
Many guests came dressed for the event as “letters or greasers,” parroting the fun times shown in the classic musical Grease. Fabulous dance moves like the jitterbug, the cha-cha, the lindy hop and the stroll were prominent and all resonant of the vitality of rock and roll in the fifties.
This cool and nifty evening celebrated the importance of God centered relationships and was coordinated and sponsored by the Berlin Seventh Day Baptist Church. Held annually around Valentine’s Day, couples have the opportunity to enjoy various themed evenings for free. The word has spread, so be sure to sign up early for next year’s event as there is almost always a waiting list!
