2009 Holiday Party

‘Twas some nights before Christmas and all through Meridian (Banquets), not a “Bah!” nor a “Humbug!” was heard. Instead, the Rotary Holiday Party rang with meaningful and enjoyable music and good cheer.

Hersey High School’s Dickens’s Carolers, wearing wonderful period costumes, entertained with beautiful carols and songs. Making a regular appearance at the holiday party was what Bob Paddock calls, “the Bob, Sr. memorial Santa Hat”. Bob didn’t give as many holiday hugs and smooches as his dad, Bob Sr. had, but he did give the invocation. Speaking as Santa, he said he had the list of who’s naughty and nice... noting that the gathered Rotarians had indeed been working hard to be nice. He ask for the blessing of a good year filled with fellowship and service.

Significant others and guests were introduced, including Mrs. Claus (a.k.a. Marcie). The club gave a copy of the Rotary District Cook Book to each Rotarian. This artfully-designed fund raiser was compiled by Barbara Ferreira, wife of Dist. Gov. Bill. Half the $10 price of the book is given to the club’s Polio eradication effort. Thanks go to member Bill Mahoney for planning a menu which was good and different from our usual fare, and to Kris Stabler and Jon Ridler for their efforts in coordinating the evening.

Another meaningful, enjoyable part of the evening was the entertainment – we sang carols this year instead of hiring a band! The money saved went to support our charities, something especially needed in this year of hardship for so many. The Dickens’s Carolers received an honorarium, which they, too, said they’d donate. After dinner our President, Bill Hoff, led us in singing Jingle Bells. At Bill Kmiecik’s suggestion, Ron Crawford chimed in with The First Noel. Curley Nebel’s daughter, Dawn, visiting that night, pitched in, coincidentally, as she had many years ago, this time leading us all in an animated, spirited version of The Twelve Days of Christmas. We almost did miss Bill Kmiecik’s initial suggestion of 'In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida.' Come to think of it, what a great technique to avoid being choir leader!

As some long-time members may remember, Dawn pitched in years ago when Curley called her from a club meeting. A program speaker couldn’t make it, so he asked her to come instead. She’s as good a performer, and as good a sport, as she was then! As for the rest of the performance, some think the “French Hens” should win the most spirited award. Real awards were the creative table center pieces, given in a drawing from a list of club members who had volunteered for at least two events since the start of the year – Bill Mahoney, Linda Borton, Bill Kmiecik, Bob Krzysik, Steve Shelton, Ron Graeff, Lynn Jensen, Dave Schultz, and Matt Fink.

President Bill extended his appreciation for attending. “It’s great to visit, and meet the our significant others. And thanks, too, for organizing the event.” It was indeed a time, as they say, of mirth, feast, good cheer and good will.