VERO BEACH — On Saturday, February 19 beginning at 7 p.m., the Paris Air Hangar at the Vero Beach Airport will be transformed into a World War II canteen and with guests transported back to the 1940’s for Rockin’ America: A Salute to our Armed Services, hosted by Vero Heritage, Inc. to benefit the Heritage Center and the Indian River Citrus Museum. The event was formerly known as USO Rocks America. Recognizing the use of the Heritage Center as a serviceman’s center during World War II, the evening honors both the history of the Heritage Center and the men and women who have served and are currently serving in our armed forces. All are welcome to attend …young and old, military and civilian. Favorite 1940’s era military or civilian attire is admired, and adds to the fun, but is not required.
The evening’s festivities will include entertainment by The Landsharks, a buffet of heavy hors d’oeuvres catered by Bono’s, the popular “target practice” wine toss, a small, select silent auction featuring donations from popular local businesses, the Military Mom’s Prayer Group, some surprises courtesy of the U.S. Army Recruiting Office in Vero Beach and of course, dancing.
Pastry Chef/Owner Sean Pierce and his partner, Maureen McIntryre of Carnival Confections will be providing a sculptured showpiece novelty cake honoring the five branches of the military. Chef Pierce has won 3 gold medals and 2 silver medals in cake challenges on the Food Network.
The American Red Cross will be on hand with safety preparedness information and literature about their Service to the Armed Forces Program. Tour one of their Emergency Response Vehicles and see first-hand how the Red Cross responds to natural and man-made disasters.
Reservations must be made in advance; tickets will not be available at the door. Tickets are $60 per person or $110 for two. Cash bar.
Built in 1935 as the original Community Building, the Heritage Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a vital link to the history of our community. Funds generated from this event assist in the preservation of this important landmark which continues to be a center of activity for the community, hosting numerous public and private events including weddings, meetings and dances as well as the Hibiscus Festival and Christmas in Downtown at Downtown Friday.
Purchase tickets at the Heritage Center, 2140 14th Avenue, by phone at 772-770-2263 or via e-mail at veroheritage@bellsouth.net.
Information: Visit www.veroheritage.org
