Editor's note: You can purchase photos of this event at www.gulfcoastphotosnow.com.

DAPHNE, Ala. — Whether food, dancing or school support brought a crowd just shy of 1,200 to “Taste of the Eastern Shore,” the event raised almost $30,000 for Daphne High School, according to Daphne Civic Center Director Sandra Morse.

Attendees — 300 more than last year, according to Morse — flocked to the Daphne Civic Center for food and drinks from 50 vendors, danced to music by the Tip Tops and supported DHS students.

Patrons chose which  department their $25 ticket would fund by writing their choice on the ticket, organizers said.

Principal Don Blanchard said he couldn’t be happier with the city’s and the public’s aid.

“It’s an outstanding program, partnership with the city and the school,” he said.

“This is another great example of why Daphne is a great place to live and raise children.”

Councilman Bailey Yelding agreed. “It’s all about our children,” he said.

This year’s theme — the rockin’ ’50s — drew folks in poodle skirts and white T-shirts and casual attire into a whirlwind of jukeboxes and Buddy Holly from the first step through the door.

Ticket booths were painted with records and images of Elvis Presley  and Mickey and Minnie Mouse; a speaker playing Little Richard stood at the entrance.

Big Band music brought crowds to the dance floor for bopping, twisting and slow dancing, as aromas invited folks to food vendors such as Jackson’s Fresh Market, Creative Catering, Will Hughes Catering and Market, Hooters Inc., Baumhower’s Wings Restaurant, Edible Arrangements, Subway and Mary Ann’s Deli and Catering, Inc.

Wine was provided by Olive Garden and Alabama Crown Distributing Company, among others.

Paintings and projections of couples, pin-up girls and guitar players lined the walls while a light mist of smoke set the stage.