What an amazing time we had at the sold-out 2025 Canorient Seniors Gala on November 23, 2025. From the moment we walked through the door, after getting an “important coupon/door prize,” we were greeted by the President, Juliet, who gave us a luggage label bearing Canorient Legacies and the Canorient Insignia on one side. The hall was a vision of elegance, the black tablecloths providing a dramatic canvas for the chic white dinnerware and beautifully lit centrepieces. On finding our table, we noticed each plate had a gold coloured mesh bag containing a miniature liquor bottle & some out-of-this-world marzipans (which some folks, at our table, had to tuck into right away.)

Promptly at 12.30, appetizers (Buffet style) were served. There was such an abundant assortment, hard to name all, but kudos to the staff who replenished the trays quite fast. The Emcee, Peter D’Cunha, welcomed all, introduced us to the band and DJs, BlackJacks & Cherry Luna AND thanked the buffet staff for being so efficient. After that, a warm & cozy touch was getting the whole crowd to sing Feliz Navidad, followed by dancing. A couple of door prizes were also given out at this time.

Following The Grace Before Meals by Dr. Irene D’Souza, lunch, pre-ordered at the time of purchasing dance tickets, was served. While most of us were still eating, MC Peter introduced the Board of Directors and their equally hard-working spouses, followed by a few words from the President, Juliet, who expressed her gratitude to her committee, members and guests and gave Maureen LaPorte a well deserved gift for the numerous hours she spends after each event, putting together an album accompanied with the appropriate music, which tells us a story requiring no words. During this time, the committee gave out numerous door prizes, which were provided mainly through the generosity of the Senior members.

After this, Peter organized such a fun game that had one person from the table on the floor, made to follow whatever action he chose to do, even if it meant flapping around like a chicken. It was hilarious. Simultaneously, someone else at the table won a prize of $25 for being the holder of a certain item. The band/DJ provided music continuously. Coffee and Tea were arranged at 6 pm; however, the crowd didn’t leave. All were having such a great time.

Special thanks to the management and staff at ME Grand Celebrations (Toronto Grand Convention Centre,) the band and Emcee Peter, whose style and energy were perfect for us. Kudos 2025 Canorient Seniors Committee, a gala dance truly enjoyed by all. Can’t wait for the next one.