OSMOND – There was no snow on Sunday evening, Dec. 8, but the beautiful decorations set the mood for the annual Christmas Wishes program, hosted by the Sons of the American Legion (SAL). Some 119 attendees were served at the meal. The program raised $16,819 to help those in need, with more donations still coming in.
After presentation of The Colors, past emcee Jim Schmit — who was thanked for his many years heading the event — started the program, and Commander Ross Stelling gave the welcome. SAL chaplain Larry Krohn led the table prayer.
A catered meal from Tiger Tavern was served by members of the SAL, followed by a short video in memory of American Legion members who have passed away during the past year.
The Osmond High School band then took the stage and put on a beautiful performance as they played a number of Christmas songs.
Drawing Winners
A drawing was then held for baskets of donated items given by local businesses and individuals. Winners of the drawings were as follows: Basket by Jacque’s Buttons & Bows in memory of Candy Fritz, Lois Koehler; centerpiece by Jacque’s Buttons & Bows in memory of Candy, Helen Steckelberg; basket with cake pan and other items, donated by Luke Stueckrath, Meuret family; basket by Jim and Deb Schmit, Betty Gubbels; power tools donated by Michael Foods, Greg Kumm; container of items donated by Brian Evans, given to Michelle Meuret; wreath donated by Brian Evans, Deb Gutz; centerpiece by Cheryl Wipperling, Ashley Bauder; item by Cheryl Wipperling, Julie Bruckner; item by R & M Lawn Service, John Aschoff; basket by decorating committee, Barry Evans; basket by Ag Land Realty, Linda Krohn.
Meuret Boys
After the drawings, members of the Sons distributed envelopes for donations, and Brian Evans introduced the evening’s main entertainment — the Meuret boys: Owen, Louis, Gus and Tom, all on the violin.
The boys put on a fantastic show. Most featured the three oldest boys, Owen, Louis and Gus, with the littlest, Tom, entertaining the crowd with his antics during several of the songs.
The boys played many Christmas tunes, as well as some other popular songs, such as “‘Santa’ Went Down to Georgia,” a solo featuring the oldest Meuret boy, Owen. The other two older boys also had solos, including one by Louis on the cello.
Little Tom also took his turn on the violin and had the crowd roaring as he played his part during “Pop Goes The Weasel.”
Each song the boys played was met with thunderous applause as they all showed incredible talent.
At the end of the evening, the Meuret family cemented its place as an Osmond favorite as they generously donated back the payment for their services for the evening, to go toward those less fortunate.
