On Dec. 3, the Forest Grove Legion Ladies Auxiliary welcomed a full house to its annual seniors Christmas dinner, the 40th consecutive dinner for the hard-working group.
The Legion was beautifully decorated from “head-to-toe.” As for the bountiful turkey dinner, it was unanimously declared to be one of the best ever.
Following dinner, the music of the ever-popular Art Dumaresq soon had guests on the dance floor for numerous spot dances. Art’s engaging humour and his danceable tunes have been a mainstay of the seniors dinners for many years.
Next on the entertainment agenda was Cheralyn’s Polynesian Dance Studio, with performers ranging from an ensemble of tiny dancers that melted every heart in the room to the smooth, gentle rhythms of older girls.
It was a perfect evening with plenty of time to visit with new and old friends. Some guests have been to many dinners since the first, people such as Vi Wallis, Art Remple, Louis Judson, Olle and Ila Bolling, Mary Stenerson and Dick and May Dixon.
Special birthday
As birthdays go, today is a very special one for a Forest Grove girl. Violet Stock turned 12 on the 12th day of the 12th month of the 12th year. A dozen best wishes Violet.
Playground fundraisers
The school’s Community and Parents Advisory Committee will be selling 50/50 tickets at Save-On-Foods on Dec. 15.
Proceeds will go toward the purchase of new playground equipment. The school’s recycling program is a continuing fundraiser. There are bins at the school. Items can also be dropped off at Richard Bergen’s home at 4553 Canim Hendrix Highway.
A Christmas gift
Every Christmas Eve, early in the evening, the Grove comes alive with the sound of music moving through the streets.
Carols and Christmas favourites ring out from on high, from a fire truck that sparkles with hundreds of lights. Go out and give Santa a wave as he goes by, to let him know we appreciate this traditional Christmas gift from our firefighters.
You might be rewarded with candy tossed from the truck by an elf or two.
Calendar
• New Year’s Eve Dance at the Legion. Border Run will be onstage from 8 p.m. to midnight. Food and designated drivers will be available. Tickets are $20 per person. For more information, contact the Legion at 250-397-2455.
• Community Concert: Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m. at the school, social hour to follow. If you are unable to attend the evening performance, you are invited to the dress rehearsal at 9 a.m. that day.
• Darts: in-house tournament and potluck dinner Dec. 15 starting at 3 p.m.
• Fire Department Children’s Party: Dec. 16, at the hall, 11:30 a.m. Pre-registration is necessary. Contact Wendy at 250-397-2452.
• Walking Club Luncheon: Sept. 17. Meet at the home of Al and Barb Thomas at 11 a.m. Potluck lunch will follow walk.
Christmas proverb
My next column will be on Dec. 26.
This old proverb is my Christmas wish for you.
“May peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year round.”