Holiday banquet offers message of love, kindness

Community leaders, business owners, friends and family joined Patterson seniors on Monday at the Fourth Annual Patterson Civic Organization Banquet, which drew a crowd of 500 attendees.
Giving thanks under the theme “Spreading Love and Kindness,” seniors and those in attendance inside the Patterson Civic Center were able to feast on a free meal of pork roast, turkey, smoked chicken, green beans, rice dressing, spaghetti and cheese as well as an abundance of assorted desserts.
Allis Jennings-Salazar, president of the organization, thanked 15 sponsors for funding the evening, which also featured 80 door prizes.
“We operate purely on the love and support of our community. As a nonprofit organization, everything we do comes from the heart, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who helps us, event after event.”
Local figures Lenora and Etoyi Jones, and Mary LeBlanc, N.P., joined Slade Sanders, the keynote speaker, to deliver seasonal thoughts to the audience.
The Joneses began their message with thoughts on love and community.
“Love is an action, a choice and a way of living. ... Love reminds us that every person matters and kindness costs nothing, and that compassion can sometimes change a person’s life, “ Lenora Jones said.
“A community is a network of heart, connected by purpose and shared values and mutual respect. When we show love within our community, we create a space where everyone feels seen, supported and valued.”
Etoyi said a community must also have patience to forgive and understand before judging. “We must build bridges instead of walls. ... If we lead with love, our community becomes stronger. ... Let’s remind ourselves that the most powerful acts of change begin with love and kindness.”
Mary LeBlanc, N.P., the owner of Patterson Total Care Clinic, encouraged everyone to choose wellness.
“The word illness begins with the letter ‘i.’ The word wellness begins with the letter ‘w’. If illness requires isolation from each other, then the separation must be corrected with the ‘we.’"
LeBlanc said it’s easy to forget health in the world of hustle and bustle.
“But in good health we find the strength to conquer mountains and fears. … Eat wholesome food. ... Sleep. ... Embrace laughter because it fuels the heart. ... Let gratitude guide your every choice.”
Sanders said that five years ago, he made a conscious effort to return to Patterson because it’s home.
“When you’re a Pattersonian, it’s hard to explain to people who are not. We don’t have the problems that other people have. We may have our own problems, but we fix our problems together.
“It’s truly a blessing to share this Thanksgiving meal with all of you. It’s time to pause and give thanks for all of gifts in our lives ... and here in Patterson, there is a such a deep gift of family and connection.
“Each of you is a living part of Patterson, and we are grateful for all that you have done and continue to do.”
Jennings-Salazar said that in January, the organization will host its annual salute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In February, they will introduce a “Sweet On You” dance for seniors. The group’s annual Easter egg hunt is slated for March 29.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to each sponsor for your kindness, your support, and your belief in our work. You help us bless our seniors and our city in ways words can hardly express.”
“We are honored to serve the wonderful community of Patterson and sincerely appreciate all who support our mission of love, service, and togetherness,” Jennings-Salazar said.