It was a Regal Event for Branch 233 last Sunday. Over 140 senior citizens made their way by car, by bus or on foot to our John Street domain for our Annual Seniors Christmas Dinner. For 53 years, members of Branch 233 have been catering an A l l T h e T r i m m i n g s Christmas Dinner, free of charge to senior citizens in our community.

This event would not have such a long history of success if it wasn’t for the merchants of Orangeville who each year, provide us with turkeys and transportation. Or the Branch 233 members who provide the herbs and spices; they arrive very early; don’t expect a wage, never tarry and offer up hours of their valuable thyme. Our promise was “satisfaction guaranteed” and that was accomplished something like this:

Upon entering the hallowed hall of Branch 233 senior guests were greeted warmly by President Lomack and his Merry Men, then escorted to the anteroom where two Lords of John St. were waiting to check-in their outerwear. Moving on, an upstairs chambermaid (one of 4) ushered guests through the secret passageway to the Imperial Lounge where chamber music was being provided by the Virtuoso Choir. Our in-house Court Jester was unavailable due to ill health but her understudy Lady Nancy jumped in to save the day.

The trumpet sounded and our men-in-waiting escorted the first wave to the royal eating chambers and the feast laid out before them. Two handpicked servants, were given the responsibility of looking after the Royal crockery and silverware with the L.A. Crest, and sprinted up and downstairs all afternoon holding tightly to these precious artifacts. The papparazzi kept a low profile, working the rooms vying for the best shots. The rumour mill has it that one of the Queen’s Own (workers that is) was caught by the camera schmoozing it up with Santa Baby.…no internet pictures, please. Shortly before 3 o’clock the first carriage crossed the moat to return guests to their residences and alas, by 4 pm the guests were gone and what remained were 40 royal staff, two coach drivers with glowing hearts and separation anxiety.

On a serious note and on behalf of Branch 233, our sincere appreciation to our senior citizens for making our Christmas gift to you so enjoyable for us. Those who so generously gave a donation…. we thank you.

Coming up for this Friday’s Members Night Dinner – CC’s Meat Pies from 5 pm to 7 and from 6 ‘til 10, the equally popular Jim Mullikow in the Lounge for your entertainment pleasure This week’s Saturday Karaoke provider is Howling Wolves.

Our Entertainment Chairman has a festive night planned for New Year’s Eve with door prizes, spot dances, a light buffet, hats, noisemakers and entertainment by Music Talks. Tickets are going fast at $25. each, so purchase soon.

Lest We Forget.