A Family Celebrates Christmas
On December 7th the members of our Horticultural Society celebrated Christmas with a dinner. That evening we recognized some members that contributed to our organization. The hall was decorated for the occasion with the help of volunteers under the capable direction of Suzette Cecile. The preceding evening a dedicated group of people came together at the hall and assembled center pieces that decorated the tables Wednesday evening. Many of the members have come back almost annually to help in the workshop but others joined for the first time and while having a good time learned the art of putting together a pretty centerpiece. Wednesday evening we enjoyed a good assortment of appetizers brought in by the people. It got our taste buds in gear for a fine meal prepared by the staff of the K of C kitchen. Many of us saved room for the desserts that were on the back tables waiting for all the diners.
As every year on the occasion of the Christmas celebration awards were handed out to our volunteers that brought so much to the organization during the year. The poinsettias and thanks went this year to the three retiring members of the board of directors Janet Veres, Betty Ann Ellwood and Sharon Johnson. All three stepped down from the board but assured us that they would still volunteer their services to the Hort Society. Awards also went to Paul Masse for his generous help throughout the year and especially for the Plant Market, and Fran Dufault for her help at the monthly meetings. Bev and Larry Dennis made sure they would be there when we needed assistance for planting or cleaning up of our gazebo and town sign gardens. We hope they enjoy the colourful poinsettia for the Christmas season. Many times it is not only the person doing the work that gets the recognition but the partner living with such a person that deserves the award. This was the case with Marguerite Bastien. Pat spends a lot of time in meetings or on the computer working for our society and also for district 11. We thank both of them for their volunteering and dedication.
As a surprise to the president he was awarded a poinsettia for his work and I want to assure you that I am thankful and will enjoy its beautiful colours throughout the season. There were many honourable mentions for the event: Marg and Frank Dudley for their generosity in time and material for our organization, Doris and Rosaire Pillon for their help. Marg Quick, Kathleen Schneider, Gladys Blais, Michele vandenBerg, Jan Lachance, Marji Laliberte, Barb Drouillard. All their help is really appreciated and valued. The board of directors with all the planning and work they do, but especially Sandy Johnson the secretary and Suzette Cecile the treasurer well deserve our gratitude for their work through the year. All of them deserve a big thank you!
After the celebration members enjoyed each other’s company for a while and we worked our way through a guessing game and numerous prizes to be handed out. It turned out to be a fitting end to a very good membership year. The best part of the whole thing is that we can do it all over again next year!
After an evening like this all that remains to do is to thank everyone for coming out and wishing all members their families and friends a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year! We hope to see you again in 2012!
Paul Schneider
President
