contributed by Julia Freeman

The Holiday Party held on Thursday, December 19, was indeed festive. Santa Claus (Dennis Evans) and Mrs. Claus (Clarita Ricketts) presided while elves (Sue Evans and Helen Hindinger) frolicked and passed out candy canes. Tom McCain narrated the proceedings. Music played a prominent part – a medley of carols sung by the small group of the Collington Singers followed by a sing-a-long of holiday favorites. Peter Basquin performed piano pieces by Debussy, Chopin, and Scott Joplin – the latter had toes tapping. Eloise Branche gave a reading of a “Brown Christmas” in the spirit of “The Night Before Christmas” but focused on the temptation of chocolates and other sweets during the season. Refreshments were then served and many stayed, gathering in small groups to share plans for the holidays.

Contributed by Julia Freeman

The Dickens Dinner was held Saturday December 15; 98 residents made reservations. Tom McCain excelled again as the reader of selections from the Christmas Carol and Dick Garrison was a “masterful” Master of Ceremonies.

The wait staff was in top form professionally serving each table. The highlight of the 5 course meal was an individual Beef Wellington, perfectly cooked.  The staff was enthusiastically applauded at the end.

 

Contributed by Dorothy Yuan

After Tree Lighting the crowd was entertained by our favorite resident band in the Ivy Bar.