Written By Lisa Breslin
One of Kelly Chiavvaci’s favorite childhood memories is of her parents attending the annual Holiday Dinner Dance at the Westminster Riding Club. Mom put on her holiday dress, dad dressed in his tuxedo and they posed for photos taken by one of their children, usually Kelly, before heading out the door.
Her father, Frank “Tom” Thomas, was the president of the board of directors, and her mother, Sue Thomas, organized many of the club’s social events.
Now, more than 25 years later, Kelly, president of the Riding Club’s Board of Directors, and her husband, Tony, follow a similar tradition.
They dress to the nines, have one of their five children take photos and then drive to the Riding Club for dinner and dancing with friends.
This year’s dance lured more than 140 revelers.
Although the affair has shifted from a sit-down dinner followed by big band music and a sultry singer, to a buffet meal with a DJ – the Westminster Riding Club’s Holiday Dinner Dance is still known for fine food, gaiety, and some of the finest fashion in Westminster.
“I really enjoy this event because I enjoy being with friends, and it puts you in the mood for the holiday season,” said Mel Rhodes, who has attended the dinner dance three years.
This year’s event, catered by Harry’s Main Street Grille, featured scallops wrapped in bacon, chicken satays with peanut sauce, roasted prime rib, garlic herb pork, chicken marsala, and a pasta bar. Dessert included tiramisu, canolis and clairs.
“Throughout the year, we have enjoyed a crab feast, the New Members Welcoming Party [which featured Margaritaville], the Memorial Day and Labor Day picnics, and many other fun events,” said Michele Macera, social chair. “This night caps the social events for the year.”
