NETHER PROVIDENCE — “This party is such a great kickoff to the Christmas season,” gushed Pat Paschall of Norwood.
“I’m really enjoying it because every single person here is so happy,” she added. “You don’t find that at too many other places.”
Paschall was one of 170 guests at this year’s Schoolhouse Center’s Holiday Party recently at the Springhaven Golf Club in Wallingford. Seniors and their guests dined, socialized, and danced to music provided by DJ John Scibello.
“This party has always been a wonderful way to start the holiday season,” remarked Senior Community Services Executive Director and founder Arthur Weisfeld. “The day is an opportunity for the Schoolhouse Center family to gather and be together with friends at a memorable festive occasion.”
The mood was indeed jolly as Santa Claus himself, aka Dennis Kent and Mrs. Claus, aka Paula Manis made their way around the ballroom, posing for photos with guests and handing out candy canes. The party also included door prizes, a basket of cheer raffle, and plenty of mixing, mingling and jingling among guests, most dressed in festive red and green holiday wear.
Ridley Park residents Johanna Rebarchak and her friend Kathleen Alosi attended the Schoolhouse holiday party for their first time. Only recently joining Schoolhouse, both ladies said they would likely attend the annual party again next year because “everyone was so nice” and “it was a wonderful afternoon.”
“After a few rough years navigating the pandemic, I think we all appreciate being able to breathe in and breathe out, smile and laugh,” noted Sayre Dixon, Schoolhouse Center program coordinator. “It’s so nice to see so many back, and so many new faces, enjoying themselves, here and at our center.”
The party was coordinated by Schoolhouse Center Advisory Board member and travel club director Judi Haines, with help from advisory board President Bob Healey and other members.
“The party went really well,” Haines said, as she circulated around to every table, making sure all guests were enjoying themselves. “We have 20 more guests than we did last year, so we must be doing something right. I think, after COVID, everyone was willing and ready to come out and have a good time. Our Christmas party is always the first Friday of December, and it’s open to anyone who wants to attend, both members and nonmembers. The party is a Schoolhouse tradition and members always look forward to it!”
