There is a new tradition at St. Philip Catholic School in Petrolia.  Last year, a winter storm on the last day of school before the Christmas break forced the cancellation of the school’s annual turkey dinner and skate.

“We were disappointed when we had to cancel our Christmas dinner and skating party in 2022,” says Principal Tamara Johnson.  “But we moved it to January, and our students, staff and parent community enjoyed it so much, we decided to make it a new tradition!”

Today, half of the school population skated in the morning and the other half in the afternoon, with the entire school family gathering over the lunch hour for a turkey dinner.  The dinner was cooked by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 216 in Petrolia and served by members of the Parent Council.  Skating was free, thanks to a generous donation from two of the school’s families.

“What a great way to start 2024!” says Mrs. Johnson.  “Thank you to everyone, including our tremendous staff, who helped to make this event possible.”