Donald Teuma-Castelletti
BRYSON Dec. 9, 2018
Christmas came early to seniors in the Bryson area, as Santa Claus sent out his many helpers to not only cater a full turkey meal for them, but drive them to the gathering, too.
The Bryson Lions Hall was packed Sunday night, with hardly a seat left at the tables for the 44th annual meal and dance, a favourite of not only the guests, but the hosts, too.
Organizer and Lionette Sheila Racine said this year they had welcomed over 125 guests to the hall, with many accepting the free ride offered to all attendees.

Lions members always offer rides to and from the dinner to any senior in need, making sure no one is left out of their community meal. The only catch for the ride typically comes from the passengers, who usually have a certain driver they’d like to request pick them up and bring them home.
Five 25 lb. turkeys were done up for the meal, prepared by members of both the Lions and Lionettes, said Racine. All that food is then settled with a hearty helping of homemade pies, featuring a wide variety of flavours, before the dance floor opens once again.
Meanwhile, everyone had the chance to score plenty of neat prizes and sweet-tooth satisfying treats in a raffle, with the money raised supporting the Bryson Recreation Association’s rink fund.
Racine said the meal continues to be an important date on the groups’ calendars, especially as they know it means so much to their community. They look forward to hosting the local seniors every year and appreciate the support the gathering receives, from both guests and everyone helping to make the evening possible.
“We really appreciate having them in the community and at this meal,” said Racine, of hosting the seniors. “We’re sharing memories, stories and good fellowship.”