“The buses are arriving.”  With this announcement, the holiday season began at Bermuda Run Country Club.

On Nov. 19, approximately 184 exceptional children from nine Davie County schools, their teachers, assistants and bus drivers were greeted by members of the Bermuda Run Garden Club, who traditionally host this luncheon on the week before Thanksgiving.

Sue Whittaker, club president, welcomed everyone and invited all to join in a holiday sing-along accompanied by pianist Mike Hendrix.

The class from South Davie Middle School sang their original version of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”  Other students and classes had made cards, posters and holiday decorations expressing thank you messages which club members appreciate and treasure.  Many are saved and displayed in the living and dining rooms of the club for everyone to enjoy and remember at the luncheon year after year.

The luncheon committee was co-chaired by Lynn Marcellino and Cathy Zeitvogel. They and their committee members – Kim Carson, Linda Ernst, Marbee Gingras, Pat Mignacca, Jo Ann Mintz, Shelby Nichols, Betty Sheek, Peggy Schuppert and Pat Wagner – began planning and preparing for this big day months in advance.

All club members ultimately are involved in supplying some of the food served, providing table decorations and assisting at the luncheon

Local businesses donated 80 pounds of turkey.

Bermuda Run Country Club Catering Director Lucy Gidley, Executive Chef Jay Christmas. as well as the club wait staff assisted in preparing and serving turkey, green beans, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, deviled eggs, cranberry sauce, rolls and beverages. Holiday cupcakes and cookies were dessert.

“Providing and sharing this special day with the students and teachers has become one of the highlights of the year for both the garden club and the Bermuda Run Country Club staff,” said Betsy Cochrane. “Everyone involved enjoys this opportunity to express appreciation and to say thank you to all of those in the Davie County Exceptional Children’s Program.”