Friday, December 2, 2011

The 31st Seniors Christmas Luncheon, hosted and prepared by the POC Community Service Club members, was held on Friday, December 2, 2011 at the Community Center. And this luncheon should really take its place in history, as it was a very delightful experience that seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by all.

When most of the guests arrived at 10:30 a.m. they were greeted by POC’s very special lady, Agnes Valigura. As people walked into the interior of the Community Center, they found a huge lighted tree displaying all sorts of Christmassy decorations and many stunningly wrapped packages beneath it. Nearby tables were covered with icy blue cloths and had various types and sizes of snowmen traveling down the center to sustain the image of a wintry scene. In one corner of the large room was a huge Santa puzzle, displayed in memory of a former member and her husband. And gracing other corners were two original paintings by our member, Ginny Lichac, one of snowmen playing and the other of a charming lady welcoming Christmas.

Agnes Valigura

And then entertainment began with the arrival of the School children who came to sing many holiday songs and caused each of us to watch them and listen with moist eyes, perhaps remembering an occasion with our children or now with our grandchildren. This was quite an experience, reliving some of those very special moments in our lives.

Following the departure of the children and before the arrival of all the delicious smelling food, Janet Johnson, President, announced the recipient of our Citizen of the Year. To no one’s great surprise, Kay Middleton was named, and she was greeted with a hearty round of applause. Kay has been a member of the Service Club for many years, served as our very capable Treasurer for over ten years and has also been the chairman of a number of committees. There has not been a work project that Kay has ever missed, and she almost becomes a whirlwind moving and stacking boxes in preparation for our garage sales. When in need of help or assistance of any kind, the call goes out for Kay.

Soon the food arrived with its welcoming aroma floating out from the kitchen, which caused looks of amazement on the faces of our guests as they saw pan after pan and large bowls, too, placed at the center serving table. Taking a tray from the front of the table and proceeding down it, a guest soon found a tasty display of ham and brisket; mashed sweet potatoes and Cajun yams; green bean and corn casseroles; delicious rolls and butter; salads of cole slaw and potato and at the end of the long table, a huge bowl of fruit, which at times perplexed the guest looking at his plate. Where to put all that wonderful food? Returning to their seats, they were then greeted with various beverages and then the dessert trays were wheeled in with choices of cakes and pies, puddings and chocolate cheesecakes and even brownies. If anyone left that afternoon not feeling totally replete, well, no sympathy from me.

Following cleanup duties in the kitchen, each member then turned to another and wished them a Happy and Joyful Christmas with the additional words, “See you in January — 2012!”