The holiday season kept the residents of Ariel busy with all sorts of activities. Once again, the elves that decorate the common areas of the building came out in force. With the assistance of the maintenance staff who put wreaths and lights on the outside of the building and climbed ladders to decorate the tallest Christmas trees inside, the building and grounds glowed brightly.
The elves started working on the holiday displays well before Thanksgiving. They spent many hours putting ornaments on numerous trees, and assembling crèches, Menorah tables, winter scenes, beautifully wrapped gift boxes, hanging wreaths, and much more. All the common spaces took on a very festive air.
Although everyone experienced the normal hustle and bustle the season brings, spirits were high. The Social Committee arranged a Holiday Dinner held in the Main Deck of the Helm Club on Saturday, December 6. Everything about the evening was carefully planned, with attendees greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne to set the tone for the evening.
The staff at Compass Rose, in collaboration with the Social Committee, did a superb job with the menu, which began with passed hors d’oeuvres so that partygoers could continue to enjoy a cocktail, mingle, and chat with the neighbors before the buffet dinner.
What a dinner it was! The three entrees offered were: poached salmon with lemon dill crème fraiche, chicken cutlets with tomato basil relish and balsamic glaze, or roasted New York Strip steak. A garden salad bar, rolls, butter, sides of roasted cauliflower, carrots and tomato, and smashed red potatoes with sour cream, chives and bacon accompanied the meal. Dessert, served tableside, was crème brûlée.
Tish, one of the favorite entertainers at The Landings, performed nearly non-stop. Residents enjoyed dancing to her music throughout the evening. Burning off some of the calories consumed by getting on the dance floor was a wish decision and a bonus.
This year’s party has set a very high standard for future events. All the residents appreciate the effort that went into producing such a fun celebration of the season.
