Old Rochester Regional Junior High School held its 31st Annual Tri-Town Thanksgiving Banquet for Senior Citizens on Sunday. (Photo courtesy Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55)
MATTAPOISETT — Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Old Rochester Regional Junior High School (ORRJHS) Principal Silas Coellner are pleased to share the success of the 31st Annual ORRJHS Tri-Town Thanksgiving Banquet for Senior Citizens.
More than 230 senior citizens attended the Tri-Town (Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester) banquet on Sunday, Nov. 24, in the ORRJHS cafeteria at 133 Marion Road, Mattapoisett. Doors opened at 11:15 a.m., and the banquet began at noon.
“We had so many staff members — including cafeteria and custodial staff — step up to volunteer to support this event,” Superintendent Nelson said. “We’d like to thank our hard-working staff for their dedication year-round, and especially around the holidays. I believe we provided our local seniors with a meal to remember.”
Principal Coellner stood to address the volunteers and banquet diners on Sunday.
“As we gather here today to celebrate our senior citizens, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have made this annual Thanksgiving banquet possible,” he told the crowd. “First and foremost, we honor our beloved senior citizens of Marion, Mattapoisett and Rochester. Your presence here today is a testament to your resilience, your wisdom, and your enduring spirit.”
The principal thanked the event’s 75 dedicated student volunteers, 15 staff volunteers, and multiple parent volunteers who gave their time and energy to make the event a reality.
“Your selfless service has truly touched our hearts,” Principal Coellner said. “We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the local businesses, parents, guardians, and staff who have generously donated gift cards, small prizes, apple pies, cider, and frozen turkeys. Your contributions have made this a truly special occasion. And last but certainly not least, we want to recognize the invaluable work of our custodial staff, maintenance staff and cafeteria staff. Their efforts in preparing the building and preparing the food have been instrumental in making this event a success.”
Hundreds of community members donated pies, turkeys, gift cards and door prizes.
Principal Coellner wishes to give a special thanks to his administrative assistant, Toni Bailey, who spearheaded the event organization effort.
“Her dedication and vision have made this banquet a cherished tradition,” Principal Coellner said, addressing the banquet crowd. “As we enjoy this meal together, let us remember the spirit of gratitude and community that has brought us all here. May we continue to honor our seniors, support one another, and give thanks for the blessings in our lives.”
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