In the heartwarming spirit of giving that defines the holiday season, the Ron Moses Community Christmas Dinner celebrated its 29th year of spreading joy and festive cheer throughout Vermilion and the surrounding communities. What began as a simple invitation from Ron Moses in 1996 has grown into a cherished tradition embraced by residents far and wide.
The origins of this event trace back to that inaugural dinner when Ron Moses and his wife, Lynda, welcomed community members to the Legion Hall for a complimentary turkey meal. This act of kindness laid the foundation for an enduring legacy of fellowship and generosity.
The dinner’s journey took a poignant turn in 2005 when Ron passed away. Lynda considered ending the tradition, but compassionate members of the Vermilion Rotary Club stepped in to ensure its continuation. Their unwavering support kept the dinner alive, maintaining its role as a beacon of holiday spirit.
Over the years, the event faced challenges, none more significant than the global pandemic in 2020. In a demonstration of resilience and community spirit, Sharon Jaremco of Mrs. J’s Catering offered her kitchen to ensure the dinner’s survival. The meal transitioned to delivery-only that year, with preparations handled safely and efficiently. By 2022, the event had rebounded, delivering 178 meals to community members.
This year’s celebration at the Vermilion Senior Centre continued the tradition, with entertainment beginning at noon and dinner served at 1 p.m. Approximately 55 attendees enjoyed the in-person festivities, while over 75 meals were delivered to individuals in Innisfree, Mannville, Vermilion, Islay, Clandonald, Dewberry, and Elk Point, ensuring everyone could partake in the spirit of the season despite physical limitations.
The in-person attendees were treated to live entertainment, including accordion music by Garry Litvany from Heinsburg, a lively Elvis impersonation and carol singing led by local performer Shane Thomas and Susan Hodges Marlowe, Marlowe also read heartwarming Christmas stories and poems as she was the emcee for the event.
This event’s enduring success is rooted in the collective efforts of volunteers who selflessly contribute to food preparation, kitchen duties, set-up, clean-up, serving, and entertainment. Their dedication ensures the seamless execution of the dinner year after year.
“Our family would like to thank all the people who helped prepare this meal or deliver it in any way—you know who you are,” said Lynda Moses, expressing gratitude on behalf of the entire Moses family.
As the Ron Moses Community Christmas Dinner marks another year, it stands as a testament to the power of community spirit, kindness, and the unifying joy of the holiday season.
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