PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Tai Ireland, Exalted Ruler of Presque Isle Elks Lodge 1954, invites anyone who would otherwise be celebrating Christmas Day alone to join the Elks for their annual Elks Family Christmas Dinner Tuesday, Dec. 25.
Once again, the entire meal, entertainment and parting gifts are free of charge. Transportation both to and from the Lodge can also be provided.
Dana Dickinson is a co-chairman of the dinner for the 14th consecutive year. He and his late wife, Mary, believed no one should be celebrating Christmas alone, which gave rise to the very first Elks Family Christmas Dinner in 2005. The celebration has now become a tradition.
This year, the organization plans a traditional, five-course meal which more than 200 people are expected to attend. Local restaurants will contribute some of their specialties, and Dickinson and his crew have gathered turkeys and hams to prepare for the ovens.
Doors will be open to the public at 10:30 a.m. on Christmas morning. Hors d’oeuvres will be served beginning at 11 a.m. Live musical entertainment will again add merriment. Wendell Hudson, Dale Hudson, Leland Clark and James “Sheldon” Wright will provide music for the 14th consecutive year.
At noon, Elks will begin serving the traditional, five-course Christmas dinner. The menu includes rolls, tomato bisque soup, roast turkey or country-baked ham with County-grown mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, squash and a vegetable medley. Dessert will feature a wide variety of pies and other offerings.
“To anyone who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone, I not only invite you to attend the Presque Isle Elks Family Christmas Dinner, I encourage you to do so,” said Ireland.
“Transportation to and from the Elks Lodge can be arranged by calling the Elks Lodge at 764-0985. People needing transportation are encouraged to make reservations with the Elks before Dec. 24, 2018,” Ireland concluded.
