A Taste to Remember: Seekonk Lions Club 28th Annual Taste of the Town

As 5pm was approaching, a vibrant energy pulsed through the air at the Ledgemont Country Club. The 28th Annual Taste of the Town was about to begin, and the anticipation among the crowd was intense. Volunteers from the Seekonk Lions Club and the Ledgemont team led by Jules Olly bustled about, setting up tables adorned with colorful tablecloths and arrangements that reflected the heart of the event.

After navigating through a packed parking lot, over 200 hungry individuals streamed into Ledgemont’ s foyer, each one eager to indulge in a culinary journey through the flavors of local restaurants, clubs, and taverns. Lions Club President Paul Buckley, along with members Len Silva and Dana Haberlein, greeted attendees.

Guests poured in, purchasing raffle tickets then navigating up the stairs through the sprawling array of culinary delights in Ledgemont’ s beautiful ballroom. The atmosphere hummed with excitement and chatter. Sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aromas wafted from the food stations, drawing hungry patrons toward an explosion of diverse flavors.

Event chairs Lion Gary Sagar and Chris Gasbarro, the enthusiastic owner of Gasbarro's Liquor Store, were ready to guide guests through an impressive selection of local wines and spirits. “You’re in for a treat tonight!” Chris called out, as vendors poured wine and adult beverage samples into elegant plastic cups with ease.

As patrons moved through the ballroom, they marveled at the array of food and desserts set up from end to end. At one station, Rosa’s Tavern in East Providence, had delicious Shrimp Mozambique. The dish was very lite and spicey leaving a trail of satisfied smiles in their wake. Moving along there was the Hamilton Diner in Seekonk with some great offerings from their daily menu. Lemon & Oil Deli with Triple S Barbeque had a never-ending line of spicey tuna and flavorful barbecue!

One hour into the event the raffle brought an extra layer of excitement. Tickets jingled in enthusiastic hands as the moment approached. As Club President Buckley called out each number drawn, cheers and jeers emitted, with new connections being forged as winners celebrated with friends. “What a night!” Buckley exclaimed, holding up a gift certificate. “We had a few tickets pass, but what can I do?”

As the night went on, intrigued patrons filed in front of former New England Patriot guard Logan Mankins. One of the patriots best defensive lineman in Patriot history, Logan signed autographs of himself and took pictures to fans delight. Then those Stella Glasses…the line lasted till the end of the evening for those craving a customized engraved glass!

With tummies full and spirits high, guests departed, already talking about next year's Taste of the Town. As the last lights of evening dimmed, the Lions Club volunteers and the Ledgemont team began to pack up, appreciative of the successful event that showcased the best of Seekonk. This event was more than just a culinary and beverage showcase; it was a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity, the shared stories over plates of food and drink, and most importantly, what we do at the Seekonk Lions Club: we serve.