Two signature Metro Detroit charity events recently took place within just a few days of each other, both benefiting Meals on Wheels.

First, on Aug. 14, Pontiac Meals on Wheels presented its annual Dancing Under the Stars event, a tongue-in-cheek takeoff on the popular television show, "Dancing with the Stars."

An estimated 150 people came out to watch teams of corporate, community and political leaders in a ballroom dance-off under a tent at Randy's on the Lake at the Pontiac Municipal Golf Course. Sheila Montgomery of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and James Pacely, owner of M.O.E. Stepping, who twirled their way into first place, also snagged the People's Choice Award.

Guests paid $30 each and enjoyed a buffet dinner from Randy's Unique Catering and an exclusive wine tasting of more than 20 wines provided by Sylvan Fine Wine and Liquor Shoppe. Pontiac Meals on Wheels has fed the elderly in the Pontiac, Keego Harbor and Sylvan Lake area for more than 9 years. Event co-chairs were Janis Rogers, Rosemary Couser and Mona Lisa Speaks.

Then, on Aug 17, Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA) took sail aboard the Ovation Yacht for its annual Summer Cruise benefiting Holiday Meals on Wheels, which delivers nutritional meals to homebound seniors on weekends and holidays.

Guests paid $125 each for the sold-out cruise, which featured an amazing performance by vocalist Kimmie Horne and her crew, along with Champagne, open bars and a strolling supper.

Three hundred people were on board for the cause and DAAA president and CEO Paul Bridgewater, wearing his traditional white captain's hat, couldn't have been happier.

"We've already raised upward of $300,000 for Holiday Meals on Wheels for 2010," he says. "It's a great feeling to see our community step up so strongly to make sure our seniors are well taken care of. That's what this is all about."

Chuck Bennett is a Metro Detroit freelance writer and host of Style Minute, which airs twice daily on WGPR-FM (107.5).