Good cheer abounds as holiday gatherings hit their stride

12/22/2010

Santa, aka Toledo Ski Club member Jim Wallace, gave gifts to all attendees, even those who were not so nice. It was during the Toledo Ski Club's Christmas party this month at Brandywine Country Club. Adding to the holiday spirit was the TSC Choir directed by ski club member Vivian Sommerfield. While they were at it, club members raised $1,680 for ISOH-Impact from a silent auction which proved great for holiday shopping with restaurant certificates, vacation packages, and more.

Santa's helpers were at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo's 119th annual Trustee Christmas Party at Imagination Station. The tradition began in 1892 when local businessman John Gunckel threw a Christmas party for children in need. Long lines wound through downtown Toledo as kids anticipated walking through the goody bag line en route to see Santa Claus, said Dave Wehrmeister, executive director of the clubs. Mr. Gunkel, from his office doors, also gave goodies to local newsboys.

Elves were at Toledo Country Club on one recent night. It was the club's 13th annual Order of the Elves gathering. This year, the group was renamed the James W. Millon Order of the Elves in memory of Mr. Millon, a founding member with Judy Perkins and Ned Hoffman. Elves paid $100 each to attend in support of the effort to provide clothing, food, and gifts to unfortunate children in Toledo and northwest Ohio. Other trustees are Benet Rupp, Fayna Millon, and Pete Millon. Over the past 12 years, the order has raised more than $165,000. This year the funds supported children in foster care or awaiting adoption said Mr. Hoffman, better known as Santa.

Carolers -- the Bedford Soiree -- sang recently for the Friends of Toledo Day Nursery Holiday Luncheon at Inverness Club. Then the members themselves brought children's holiday gifts including books and CDs.

Elves not in costume were those who attended the 44th annual Do It Party at the Players Club. Chairmen included Bob Lohmeyer, Jeff James, and Ken Myer. More than 200 helpers attended and donated to help brighten the holidays for families in need. The proceeds are used to purchase groceries and other items at Sautter's in Sylvania for 13 families in the community. Seen were Bob and Kay Wasserman, Norm and Norma Tanber, Marcia Tanber, Ron and Sharon Buermele, Bob and Carol McCloud, Al and Mary Mollenkamp, Ed Biniecki, Mary Loeb, Gib Meyer, Kim Burke, Tedd Long, Greg Loeb, and George Francis.

Merry Christmas!