Written By Olena Riznyk
AILSA CRAIG – On Sunday, December 1st, the East Williams Optimist Club held its Annual Breakfast with Santa at the Ailsa Craig Recreation Centre. The event successfully brought together families for a morning of food and community engagement. The breakfast offered affordable ticket prices—$15 for ages 13 and up, $5 for children aged 4-12, and free for children under 4—making it accessible to all who wanted to attend.
John Stuckermans, a representative from the East Williams Optimist Club, shared his thoughts on the event’s success. “It’s good for the Optimists to be able to organize events like this for the community,” he said. “We’re pleased with the turnout today—about 85 people attended. It’s great to see families come together for this event.”
The breakfast featured a wide variety of options, including eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, salad, dessert, and juice. The Boy Scouts were responsible for preparing and serving the meal. “The Boy Scouts have done a good job cooking and serving,” John noted. “Their contribution is valuable, and they’ve made sure everyone is well-fed.”
The event also included a raffle with 32 prizes, which were generously donated by local businesses and Optimist Club members. Children had the opportunity to purchase $1 raffle tickets for a chance to win one of these prizes, and all proceeds from the raffle were earmarked for community youth programs. “The funds raised here will go toward supporting youth initiatives and events in the community,” John explained.
The Boy Scouts not only helped with preparing and serving breakfast but also received a donation for their efforts. This donation will help support their ongoing community activities. “The Boy Scouts assist with the breakfast, and in return, they receive support for their community work,” John added.
A popular highlight of the morning was the opportunity for families to take photos with Santa. “It’s a popular part of the event,” said John. “The kids enjoy getting a photo with Santa, and it’s a nice keepsake for the families.”
All funds raised from the breakfast and raffle will go toward the East Williams Optimist Club’s community initiatives, with a focus on supporting youth programs. “The money we raise is used to support local youth programs and other community activities,” John explained.
The East Williams Optimist Club is also preparing for more events in the holiday season, including their participation in the Ailsa Craig Santa Claus Parade on December 14th.
