Source: Westman Zone Community News Release - December 26, 2024
The 2024 edition of the Westman and Area Traditional Christmas Dinner is in the books, and by all accounts, it was a huge success. The above-seasonal temperatures and a mainly sunny day brought out a huge crowd that was lined up well before the doors of the MNP Hall in the Keystone Centre opened. Reverend Don Bernhard said grace, which reminded attendees not only to give thanks for the meal but also for the many volunteers and sponsors who made it all possible on Christmas Day.
The MNP Hall was packed right from the first serving at Noon until the doors closed at 4 p.m.
(Photo credit - Westman Zone)
“As the old saying goes, many hands make for light work and that truly describes how our group gets things done year after year,” said Gladden Smith Traditional Christmas Dinner committee chair. “The local sponsors — businesses in Brandon — every year help out so much, so I’m hoping people do realize that and give back to the sponsors that gave to us,” Smith said. Just over 100 turkeys were needed to make up the hot meal thanks to a generous donation from Brandon’s Credit Unions (Compass Credit Union, Fusion Credit Union, Sunrise Credit Union, and Westoba Credit Union). The potatoes were covered in part by Sysco, McCain's, and the WTCD. The ham portion of the meal was provided by Maple Leaf. The little that was leftover went to Franny's Place & Helping Hands.
Servers on the food line were busy nonstop throughout the afternoon!
Frasier (first photo) and Niko (second photo) were two of the many friendly and helpful servers who made sure drinks were topped up and desserts were had. (Photo credit - Westman Zone)
The final tally of meals served was just under 3500 between those who came to the MNP Hall (2200) and those who called in before the December 23rd cut-off to get their meal delivered (1260). “It really is amazing to see how everything comes together and things go as smooth as they have,” said Traditional Dinner Media Relations Director Frank McGwire who also served as the emcee for the event. “But this event doesn’t happen without the help from so many people behind the scenes, said McGwire. Entertainment was provided by Wendy Friesen who kicked things off with her wonderful rendition of Porky Pig’s Blue Christmas. Independent recording artist Anastasia Jane performed a half-hour set of Christmas Classics plus a song from her upcoming release Swimming to Oz. Wrapping up the entertainment portion of the event was the father & daughter team Brittany (vocals) and Bryan Schettler (guitar) who performed Christmas Classics. The background Christmas music was provided by Brandon-based internet radio station The Spark – Web Radio That Rocks!
Wendy Friesen (right) performs her rendition of Porky Pig's Blue Christmas. Anastasia Jane (Left) accompanying on guitar.
Anastasia Jane interacts with the crowd during her 30-minute set.
The Schettlers (Brittany right) and Bryan (On guitar) wrapped up the entertainment portion of the event.
As the event increases in popularity each year, the need for volunteers grows. Upwards of 300 volunteers were needed this year. Starting with the planning committee of eight people, the dinner then requires people to prep and cook the food, dozens of people waiting tables, meal servers on the food line, people in the kitchen, delivery drivers, and people to wrap the gifts that younger kids receive, cleaning staff and operators who taking calls from sponsors and people wishing to donate their time or money. “Our group of volunteers and sponsors along with the host venue exemplify what Christmas is all about,” said McGwire. “From the volunteer end of things, it’s always great to see friends and acquaintances helping out and it’s a good opportunity to make new friends with this group of volunteers.”
Another noteworthy part of this year’s dinner is the call for volunteers was answered early and often. All areas requiring volunteers were filled ten days before the event. “There’ve been years when the number of volunteers fall short but this year was exceptional, said Smith. Whether you’re there to enjoy the meal, the entertainment, or the chance to get a picture with Santa, the dinner is a tradition many folks in the Brandon Area have looked forward to since the mid-80s. “One of the great things about this event is when we get families volunteering to serve, clean tables, deliver meals etc. - they all come together to share in the spirit of Christmas,” Smith said.
Santa was happy to hand out candy canes and gifts to all the boys and girls.
Plans are already being made for the 40th annual Traditional Christmas Dinner and the planning committee promise to make it an even better event than the previous year.
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