Christmas Luncheon ~ November 24, 2011

The Royal City Men's Club held their sixth Annual Christmas Luncheon at the Victoria East Golf Club on the above date. Fifty-nine members and partners plus seven guests attended. Guests were Joe Waters, president of the Guelph Wellington Men's Club, his wife Nancy, guest speakers Marty Williams and Lynn Veronneau, and three band members: Lynn Lodge, Rob Stark and George Garrett. Ron Durst and Gordon Framst welcomed members as they arrived and member Gil Taves along with the guest musicians provided seasonal music during the Meet and Greet time from 11:30 to 12:00. RCMC President Len Johnstone called the group to order at 12:00, welcomed everyone, gave a few introductory remarks and introduced Joe Waters and his wife Nancy. President Joe Waters thanked President Len for inviting him and his wife and brought greetings to all RCMC members on behalf of all members of the GWMC. Tom Beale proposed a toast to the Queen and Soren Sondergaard to the ladies present. Soren then said Grace. President Len acknowledged the work of the House, Activities and Program committees in organizing the Christmas Luncheon, and in particular, the dedicated efforts of Dave Paterson. Everyone present expressed their appreciation. Len then directed the head table to start off the procession to the buffet luncheon, which received excellent comments from members and guests. Photo: Bill Apsit Photo: Bill Apsit Following lunch, Len conducted a draw for door prizes which had been donated by Victoria East Golf Club, Stone Road Mall, Ariss Golf Club, and by members. Larry Hillier introduced speakers Marty Williams and Lynn Veronneau from the Downtown Guelph Business Association who spoke about organizing the Santa Claus Parade in Guelph. This was the first year the Downtown Business Association had taken on organizing the parade and Marty and Lynn did a good job of conveying the magnitude and complexity of this undertaking. By all accounts it was one of the best ever and they gave credit to the many volunteers and the past organizers who mentored them. Ken Marchant thanked Marty and Lynn and everyone present gave them a good round of applause. Tom Beale introduced the band members who then played some more seasonal favourites, including danceable tunes that got some members and spouses up dancing. It was obvious that the musicians enjoyed playing and this added to the enjoyment of the audience. Len thanked the band and staff from the Golf Club for an excellent job and declared the party over just after 2:30 p.m. Gordon Framst Secretary