By Raymond Tyler
No one ever accused me of not enjoying the holiday season. So when I received my invitation from the Hispanic Association of Atlantic County to attend their annual Holiday Social Mixer at Vagabond Kitchen and Tap House, I professionally said, “Yeah Man, I get to socialize with good friends and enjoy great food as we celebrate another Christmas season and upcoming 2024!” Sounded like a win to me.
As they used to say in ’70s commercial’s: “wait, there’s more.” The $30 entry fee goes toward the annual Three Kings Celebration, which will ensure a great holiday season for many children and families.
When I found out the Holiday Social Mixer was also part of a toy drive, I said professionally, “I will bring a toy and Take My Money!”
The evening was better than I expected. I usually don’t like to sit elbow to elbow, but when I am in great company with friends like Robert Ortiz from the EHT Police Athletic League, and Jessica Grullon from Stockton University, it’s like sitting at the big little table at Thanksgiving.
So in my family, the older adults/grandparents, sit at the dining room table, while my cousins and I sit at the “Big Little” folding table, and if you are younger than us, you get a seat at the card table or sit where you can. It’s a family tradition.
I also had the pleasure of meeting the new Chief Executive Officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City, Dr. Charles Wallace II. I am excited to see the achievements that have come under Dr. Wallace’s direction.
The Holiday Social Mixer was my first of the 2023 holiday season and I had a great time. I didn’t eat too much, but I met some great people who will continue to do great things for The Shore Local region. I am glad to know that my festive enjoyment will help the Hispanic Association of Atlantic County with their phenomenal Three Kings Celebration.
The Three Kings Day Celebration will take place on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024 at the gymnasium of Our Lady Star of the Sea, 15 N. California Ave.
Historically the holiday celebrates the Three Wise Men bringing gifts and celebrating the birth of the baby Jesus. Locally, Three Kings Day is also a wonderful celebration of community and family. For more information on the Hispanic Association of Atlantic County or Three Kings Day see www.HAACNJ.org
You can connect with Raymond Tyler via Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Instagram @RaymondTyler2018.
