Community Thanksgiving dinner serves 30 turkeys
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RONAN – Ronan’s eighth annual community dinner was one to remember, as more than 330 individuals were served a free, all-you-can-eat Thanksgiving meal Nov. 24 at the Ronan Community Center. Thirty turkeys — that’s 400 to 500 pounds of poultry — were consumed, along with traditional sides like fresh rolls, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce.
Those who came out for the meal were entertained by local musicians the Pettit family, Gino Harper, Logan Stevens and Sharon Cole during the four-hour event.
“It went really well,” event coordinator Dana Grant said. “Everyone’s been super supportive.”
Without volunteer help from community members, the dinner wouldn’t be possible Grant said. More than 50 volunteers gave their time over the course of multiple days for setting up, serving and cleaning afterward.
“Volunteers are what bring it together, and they are like the glue that holds it all together,” he noted. “It takes several days to organize donations and set things up. You need volunteers throughout the process, or it wouldn’t happen.”
The event was made possible by contributions from the Ronan Chamber of Commerce, along with local businesses and private donations of cash, canned goods, bread and pies. Cheri’s Catering helped out by supplying necessary equipment to process the food.
The Salish and Kootenai Tribes also donated a substantial number of turkeys. Grant estimates that the cost of the event exceeds $1,000, not including supplies, which is why donations are critical for the dinner.
Grant noted the dinner is a good opportunity to fellowship and socialize with fellow community members while receiving a nice meal. He thanks all volunteers and is grateful for the community support that made the event possible.
“People come and connect from all walks of life,” he said. “This dinner is a healthy thing for our community.”
As people enjoyed delicious food and entertainment, first-time volunteer Ronald Legislador and five-time volunteer Claremarie Minez got to know each other over the meal during their breaks.
“It’s so rewarding,” Minez smiled. “I come every year. I just love meeting happy people and it’s just very gratifying.”
“This is a good way to make good friends,” Legislador added. “It’s time to give back.”
In the past there hasn’t been a community Christmas dinner, but Grant says this year it could be a good possibility.
“Right now it’s up in the air,” he explained. “But a decision will be made in the next week.”
