Gwen Berry
The annual High Prairie Community Christmas Dinner has become something of a tradition over the last several years. Delicious food, a festive setting, and friends and neighbors enjoying each other’s company – it all adds up to a great start to the holiday season. This year was no exception, though this year’s gathering, on December 3rd, was a special brunch instead of a dinner.
Carleen Kemp volunteered to create the brunch, and she outdid herself, providing an appealing and delicious buffet with the help of her dedicated helpers. Especially notable, by all accounts, was the sliced ham; though it had to share its glory with cinnamon rolls, egg strata, cheesy hash-brown casserole, pan-fried steel cut oats, and fruit compote. No one could have gone hungry. There were even vegan selections for those so inclined, and five different beverages to choose from.
Over 70 people came to enjoy food and friends. The party mood was helped along by the cheerful Christmas Jazz Band inflatable playing just outside the door as it has in previous years. Decorations on tables and walls gave the space a festive holiday feel. A slide show of High Prairie people and events ran on the screen at the front of the room.
Sixteen special desserts, all the table centerpieces, and two beautiful evergreen wreaths were auctioned off to guests to help fund the event. HPCC wants to thank everyone who participated in the auctions and those who made other donations for their generous support.
Special thanks are also due the people who made the brunch such a successful event – especially Sharon Aleckson, who made sure it happened and acted as chairperson, and Carlene Kemp, who generously committed her time and expertise. Big thanks go to everyone who helped. The brunch would not have come off so nicely without the combined efforts of many people.
