WEST BRANCH – The West Branch Kiwanis Club put on their Annual Variety Show Nov. 9 and 10 at Ogemaw Heights High School (OHHS.)
They did not disappoint the community with their own script “Fabulous 50s and Swinging 60s.”
“We started practice in September to be ready for November show. West Branch Kiwanis Club has been putting on a Variety show for 35 years,” Ellen Pugh said.
This was a special show this year as the West Branch Kiwanis Club honored Ray King for his 35 years participation. They roasted him for his years of service, playing pranks and joking with him through the show. At one point they gave him a six-pack of Ensure. The audience roared with laughter when Ray said he wasn’t familiar with the new light beer.
“I have never heard of Ensure beer,” he joked.
In the second half, King received the Frank O. Staiger Distinguished Kiwanian Award. This is the highest award presented by the Kiwanis of Michigan Foundation. At least ten Kiwanis members must recommend the recipient of the award with an article explaining his or her achievements in Kiwanis.
His family was there for the presentation on stage, his wife Mary handed him the plaque. The plaque comes with a monetary gift that is given to the hospital fund to help to support hospitalized children. Ray got to take the beautiful plaque home.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by many groups and individuals including the Mighty Kiwanis Chorus, Just for Kicks Cloggers, the OHHS Choir, and more.
Eric Alderton performed a selection of Elvis hits. At the end of his last song he threw his towel to the audience. Young girls came screaming and storming the stage just like the real Elvis on stage. The audience cheered with enthusiasm as the girls tugged at the towel.
The evening ended with the Mighty Kiwanis Chorus singing ‘God Bless America’ and encouraging the audience to take place by standing and singing with the choir.
It was a beautiful evening filled with family and friends, young and old.
