​Santa Claus greets members of Ripley Horticultural Society at Christmas Luncheon

About 40 members and guests of the Ripley and District Horticultural Society enjoyed the annual Christmas Luncheon, held Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 6, at the Ripley-Huron Legion.

Santa Claus was on hand to greet the crowd and even found himself sitting on a lap or two, before he headed on his way.

Rose Marie Meyer gave a warm welcome and everyone enjoyed the delicious lasagna dinner, prepared by the Legion ladies’ auxiliary.

Shirley Galloway offered some hilarious Christmas jokes and stories, a draw was made for door prizes, and Gail Lotton conducted a couple of contests, including a great trivia game.

Christine Roberts told the group that the Ontario Horticultural Association had donated funds for the pollinator gardens, including a sign that will be posted at the garden in the Ripley Cemetery.

The president’s award was presented by Meyer, to Christine and Jim Roberts for their hard work and dedication to the gardens in Huron-Kinloss, as well as her continued support of the society as the secretary and public relations person.

“You are both a great asset to our community,” said Meyer.

Dianne Simpson presented service pins to Diane Clifford and Joan McLaughlin, five years; Eleanor Campbell, Simpson and Linda Jaynes, 10 years; Mary Anne Kukoly and Sheila MacDonald, 20 years; and Shirley Harris, 25 years. Service pins for those not in attendance will be presented later.

Retiring youth leader Tryntje Eisen was honoured with a gift in appreciation of her many years working with the “For Our Youth” club. She is taking a sabbatical from the group.

“Thank you for this,” said Eisen, “and thank you for all your support with the youth. It has been very rewarding working with them over the past 10 years. Merry Christmas.”

Galloway gave a few more jokes and stories, and then Simpson and Liz Dadson of the Kincardine Record, an honourary member of the society, led a carol sing.

The next meeting of the Ripley Horticultural Society will be the annual general meeting, Jan. 17, at 1:30 p.m., at the Ripley-Huron Community Centre.