Warsaw Elks Host 19th T-Day Dinner

It's the traditional day to give thanks for the blessings in our lives. And a day to spend with those blessings - our family and friends.

And for those who have no family near, the Warsaw Elks Lodge 802 is not forgetting them on Thanksgiving Day. The Elks are hosting their 19th Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Center Lake Pavilion, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"This is by no means only for the needy of the city. This is for everyone - especially those who don't have family nearby to spend Thanksgiving with," said Jim Baker, who coordinates the event for the Elks.

Last year, the Elks fed about 160 people, including deliveries to the shut-ins, Baker added. That translated into 30 turkeys, 80 pounds of ham, 80 pies, 16 gallons of green beans.

"It's a full-fledged meal," he said. "We cook it all at the American Legion (Post 49) the night before, then reheat it and take it to the pavilion on Thursday morning," Smith said.

Smith said anyone needing a Thanksgiving meal delivered should call the Elks Lodge by 9 p.m., Nov. 24 at 267-7802 to arrange for delivery Thanksgiving morning,

"We have about 60 to 70 volunteers each year, and we take donations from several area businesses and individuals to cover the $3,000 cost," Smith added. "We also have other businesses give us discounts on paper products and other items."

Smith also singled out Alice and Mike Schooley for special praise in helping with the annual event.

"Alice is just a real sweet lady. Even though she's not a member of the Elks, she's a great cook and she gets everything together for us," Smith said. "Without her, we'd be lost."

Smith reiterated everyone is welcome to enjoy the Thanksgiving event.

"Everyone's invited," he said.