Progressive Dinner

Words and photographs by Lulu Castiglione

With the holiday season in full "swing", the residents and friends of Swing Times came together on Saturday, December 15 to hold the town's first Progressive Dinner.  Local residents and friends from far and near gathered at the town ice rink located on the town green. The festively dressed group gathered at 6:00 pm and was treated to a champagne toast led by the dinner organizer, Mr. Sed Southpaw of the Victory Cafe and Market. Mr. Southpaw moved the group by sharing the following "I moved to Swing Times close to the end of the summer, I think. I instantly fell in love with my brilliant and quaint surroundings. I was warmly welcomed by the Captain who I have tremendous respect and admiration for. This town has something special because everyone I have met here have been the most polite people on the grid. Raise your glasses, I want to propose a toast. Here's to my wonderful neighbors, friends and to the past, present and future of Swing Times. Cheers!" It was the start of a lovely evening of great friends, good food and warm moments.

First stop on our tour of delights was for appetizers at Miss Danielle Bennett's home. Miss Danielle's warm and inviting home was filled with all kinds of goodies to start the evening off, including a delicious cocktail appropriately called, The Snowball and hot buttered rum.

Next stop, Miss Hunny's Pub! Although Miss Hunny could not be with us for the dinner she offered her Pub as a festive stop along the way. A lovely table of wines and cheeses were offered as we entered the pub and were treated to wonderful music and rocking around the Christmas tree.

With the group happily in full party mode, we headed over to the Docklands to board a docked houseboat and was treated to fresh, delicious sea food. The chowder warmed every one.

The group moved back to the mainland and the next two stops proved to be neighborly as they were at the homes of Mr. Sed Southpaw and Miss Lulu Castiglione & Mr. Domino Copola. Mr. Southpaw turned his yard into a military campsite where guests sat around the fire and ate rations of chipped beef. When all had eaten and laughs were shared, they headed next door for peppermint martinis and sweets for the desserts potion of the dinner.

Everyone then headed back to the docklands via boats compliments of both Captain Creighton and Mr. Southpaw. Cigars and brandy were offered as the perfect end of the full filled evening at the home of Captain and Mrs. Creighton.

Each location was offered with love and warmth and showed the true meaning of the first holiday season in Swing Times. Thank you to everyone who opened up their and homes and businesses and showed us a peak inside of your generous hearts.