The 28th Annual Senior Citizen Holiday Dinner and Show was held on Dec. 12 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. inside the gymnasium at Serrano High School. Transportation was provided via Snowline school buses, with pickup and drop-off points at the senior centers in Wrightwood, Phelan, and Pinon Hills, as well as Vista Verde Elementary.
Upon entering the gym, attendees were greeted with a cozy holiday atmosphere and the delicious smell of food to come. Senior citizens filled the gymnasium, and the chatter of new friendships forming and old ones reconnecting filled the air. The Serrano Diamondback Singers kicked off the event with the national anthem, then continued to serenade everyone with Christmas classics before making way for the next act.
As the event continued, the Serrano Dance Team performed, followed by the Diamondback Players, who presented a Christmas rendition of Cinderella. The Serrano Band then took the stage to keep the entertainment going strong.
During the show, a delightful dinner was served at the tables. The meal included thick-cut turkey, vegetables, potatoes, a roll, and a side salad. The Serrano FFA (Future Farmers of America), along with the Serrano Fire Diamondbacks, served the food. Kaylene Maize, one of the Serrano FFA educators, noted that the group has participated in the Annual Senior Citizen Dinner for the past five years.
“It’s important for the students to learn the importance of giving back to the community. Doing these events helps create well-rounded individuals and gives them a chance to interact with all age groups,” said Maize.
The students worked diligently to ensure every senior had a meal, promptly clearing plates and refilling drinks. FFA student Sarah Traore reflected on the experience: “It is a chance for us to show our community that we [FFA] are more than just planting seeds and tending to animals, but that we care about the seniors in our community and want to support and learn from them.”
Serrano Fire Diamondback student Jay Shippy, attending the event for the first time, shared, “It’s a lot of fun! It feels good to help out our community, and all the seniors are very nice! This has been a good experience.”
After the main course, dessert was served. Seniors had their choice of three types of coffee cake: lemon poppy seed, apple, or red velvet. As they enjoyed their dessert, it was time for the gift giveaway. This year, attendees could choose between a red or yellow poinsettia plant or a handcrafted pen made by the Serrano CTE Woodworking students.
Senior Gloria Vredenberg shared, “This is my second year attending. The food and company are good. I look forward to it and hope to attend many more!” For senior Barbara Ann Chesser, this year’s dinner was particularly special, as she brought her friend Pam for her first time.
“I look forward to this every year! Going to this and other senior events in the community is how I get to keep in touch and see some of my friends,” said Chesser.
As the dinner and show came to a close, the seniors headed back to the buses with full bellies and hearts, reflecting on a wonderful afternoon organized by the Serrano High School staff and students. They also carried thoughtful gifts to enjoy throughout the holiday season and beyond.
A big thank-you to Serrano High School, the Snowline Transportation Department, and the Snowline Board of Trustees. Without them, this cherished tradition for the senior citizens of the Tri-Community would not be possible.
