Meanwhile Rotarians were busy setting up tables, putting out tablecloths and place settings, and bringing out the food for the big lunch crowd which would include our club members, our retirement home guests, and a bevy of musical performers from Parks Junior High. Accompanying all this frenetic activity was Don Ludwig up on the stage playing a delightful medley of Christmas songs on the upright piano.

By 12:00 noon sharp the food line was ready to go, and a brigade of Rotarians began ferrying plates, two at a time, to our guests who were, by now, lined up at the tables set for them and anticipating lunch. They were surely not disappointed. Herbed Roast Chicken, Rigatoni with Spicy (moderate) Tomato Sauce, Caesar Salad, and soft Italian Bread Sticks comprised the main-course menu, with coffee, sweetened iced tea and regular ice water available to drink. There was also Pepperoni Pizza for the youngsters and any others who might wish an alternative. Event Chairman, Mark McGee, called the whole affair to order at 12:10. While dispensing with much of the usual opening Rotary ritual, he did not neglect the Invocation which was inspiringly delivered by Jeff Hutchison.

After Don Ludwig concluded his contribution, our Holiday Music Festival continued with the Hand-Bell Choir from Parks Junior High playing some really old (like, Mediaeval) carols as well as more traditional fare. The bell ringers were under the direction of veteran music instructor Karla Turner.

Next we were treated to the vocal renditions of the "Chanson Choir" a small, all-girl ensemble under the direction of Melissa Martinez. The girls sang some popular Christmas songs. When they sang "Jingle Bells" it ushered Santa Claus into the scene, where he posed for photographs with the guests. As a tribute to that Jolly Old Gentleman from the North Pole (ably portrayed by Jim McKamy), the girls concluded with a rendition of that great old Eartha Kitt number, "Santa Baby!"

During the musical numbers slices of Pumpkin Pie garnished with cinnamon and whipped cream were distributed to one and all. The perfect seasonal dessert for the banquet. Each of the guests received a personal shopping bag full of Christmas treats. With all that went on, there was neither time nor place for most of the usual stuff: no guest intros, no jokes, no fines or recognitions, no raffle, no guest speaker. Just a Merry Christmas/Happy Holiday Celebration honoring the elders of our tribe. We truly wish them every happiness. Congratulations and thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this event happen.