The Harrisburg Senators Fan Club isn’t just about baseball. Every December, we forego our monthly business meeting to gather in the spirit of the season.

The 2015 Fan Club Christmas Party begins as any other. Members arriving, adding neatly wrapped presents of all sizes and shapes to our gift table. Decorative poinsettias positioned as centerpieces. Drinks and snacks act as precursors to our annual Christmas dinner.

Following grace, the first table begins to gather from the feast before us. Dinner conversation is light and festive.

Before all tables are served, there arose such a clatter. The room turned toward the entrance to see what was the matter.

Two late-arriving guests appear: Santa and Mrs. Claus, (but no tiny reindeer)!

Santa and Mrs. Claus arrival

Not surprisingly, they came bearing gifts. The brightly dressed couple visited with every guest.

After our satisfying dinner and cake for dessert, the reindeer games began. Through bursts of laughter, we awarded prizes for the winners of the Christmas-themed crossword, Christmas movie trivia and a challenging Christmas song title-lyric match.

Our gift exchange allowed everyone to select a present from the table. Members also had the option to choose a known gift: one of the vibrant poinsettia plants. Many of the wrapped gifts (surprisingly) possess a baseball theme, which is perfectly fine for this group.

Finally, our special guests offer photos by the Christmas tree. Many attendees accept the invitation and even sit on Santa’s lap.

Fan Club Vice-President Jeanne Jacobs with our special guests

I’d like to thank the Clauses for taking time to join us. We all know how busy they must be this time of year.

I also want to thank the Fan Club board for their efforts to make this event special for all of us. I tip my Senators cap to the front office attendees, Blair Jewel and Todd Matthews, while several of their workmates were traveling to the Winter Meetings.

Although we all pine for baseball to return, gathering together like this in the spirit of Christmas provides a huge booster shot in getting us through the off-season. Thanks to all who attended.

Enjoy a safe, peaceful Christmas season!

Brian Williams, President