The HUB International Barton Insurance Brokers’ annual Christmas dinner for seniors has become such a cherished tradition in the lakecity that it sold out the first day tickets came on sale this year.
Sunday, Dec. 13 marked the 15th year that the insurance broker has hosted the dinner for seniors at the Elk’s Hall.
The dinner is open to seniors ages 60 and older and is served by RCMP members wearing their Red Serge uniforms.
The tradition has grown steadily in popularity over the years as a chance to enjoy a great Christmas dinner, mingle with old friends and maybe meet some new friends.
All 248 of the $10 dinner tickets sold on the same day they were available Oct. 1 without any advertising, says event co-ordinator Monica Lachapelle.
“There are several people who have been to all of our dinners,” Lachapelle says.
Noted lakecity chef, and Hub International Barton Insurance employee Alison Sutherland-Mann teamed up with fellow employee Roger Gysel to cook the dinner with help from other staff volunteers.
They made ham, scalloped potatoes, mixed veggies, coleslaw, fresh buns and cake for dessert.
“Save-on-Foods does a lovely job of making a big cake for everyone,” Lachapelle says. “Usually it is half vanilla and half chocolate.”
After dinner Les Anderson entertained the crowd with his singing. “He has just such a lovely voice and mixes it up between Christmas carols and golden oldies,” Lachapelle says.
She says the insurance brokers’ staff fundraise all year long to help pay for the food and buy gifts for the seniors.
Between silent auctions, raffles, and donations from various insurance companies and other businesses, she says they are able to provide the dinner and entertainment for $10 and buy gifts for the seniors.
“Every senior goes home with a gift,” Lachapelle says. “It is really an amazing event.”