Twas a few weeks before Christmas,

And splendid was the scene,

As Rotarians and Friends gathered

At Engine 14!

 

We arrived around 5:30,

We didn't want to be late

To be greeted by friendly smiles

From hosts, Greg and Kate!

 

A basket awaited us,

And was placed by the door.

We gave things for Open Cupboard,

So, others could have more.

 

The tables looked festive

All covered in white,

And red bows on each chair

Looked so merry and bright!

 

The lights, how they sparkled,

All strewn from above.

Yes, Engine 14 is a place

We all love!

 

Each table centerpiece

Was created with care,

In the hope they would please

Each person there!

 

Rotarians and Guests

Numbered two times twenty!

Lots of laughter and chatter

Yes, there was plenty!

 

We were welcomed by "Elf John"

With a friendly "Hello",

Next, Guests were introduced,

And many we would know!

 

Micah, who gave The Blessing,

Knows the true meaning of living.

He thanked The Lord Above

For this "Season of Giving".

 

We said The Pledge to the Flag,

As we stood by our places,

Giving honor to Old Glory

With fervent voices and faces.

 

"God Bless America"

We chose for our song.

Melodious sounds came

From our voices clear and strong!

 

John didn't forget

To thank hosts, Greg and Kate.

Their wonderful hospitality

Was certainly "first-rate"!

 

There was entertainment tonight

That simply was grand!

We heard spectacular music

By Phil's Jazz Band!

 

Those talented musicians

Were awesome, in fact!

A few of the members

Were from Interact!

 

There were "Sounds of the Season"

As the music unfurled,

And for the "Finale",

They chose "What A Wonderful World"!

 

The buffet table was filled

With a tasty barbecue,

We applauded the caterers,

And their talented crew!

 

Another table was laden

With gifts galore,

And hosts, Marty and Carrie

Then "took the floor"!

 

With Carrie as "Vanna",

And Marty as "Pat",

The party grew lively,

Now just imagine that!

 

We each drew a number,

And the fun had begun!

We started with Kevin, 

Who drew Number One!

 

Now, one could keep one's gift

For a nominal fee,

Which would go to Naples Angels,

As we serve others, you see.

 

A variety of gifts

Brought smiles and good cheer,

But the "Nifty Beer Helmet"

Was most coveted this year!

 

It made its way around

From Micah, to Laurie, then Marty,

Who finally paid to keep it,

And bring it home from the party!

 

A little note of thanks

Is added in this quip,

For our Party Organizers,

Namely Judy and Skip!

 

It was great to see

Lots of friends gathered there,

Thus, we all came home

With fond memories to share!

 

This Annual Celebration

Has brought us good cheer!

Merry Christmas to all.

And A Happy New Year!!