set for Sunday
at Eagles Club
Nikki Carlson
Havre Daily News
photos@havredailynews.com
Sunday's community Christmas dinner will be dedicated to U.S. military members who can't be home with their families.
“I'd like to dedicate the community dinner to the whole armed forces who are protecting us overseas,” dinner organizer state Rep. Bob Bergren said today.
On Christmas Day, 30 turkeys with all of the trimmings will be sliced for the free community dinner at the Eagles Club in Havre from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bergren said about 700 people were served during last year's Christmas dinner, including 200 meals that were delivered. He's hoping for another good turnout.
“They had a good turnout during the Thanksgiving dinner,” he said of the other large holiday community dinner held in Havre. “I guess some of it will probably depend on the weather. If it's a nice day and it's clear, we should have a good turnout.”
Raymond Miller of Can-AM Entertainment will provide live Christmas music and easy listening music during the dinner. This is Miller's first year performing at the dinner.
“I'm really excited that he's coming to play,” said Bergren.
“I'm very happy to do so,” Miller said.
Bergren took over organizing the community Christmas dinner three years ago because it gives him and his family a chance to make a difference together, and to continue a “great tradition” in the community.
“My whole family comes down and we all spend a lot of time there helping,” he said. “This is not just a shut-in dinner. People can bring their own families down. It's for everyone in the community and it's a lot of fun.”
“I think it's a wonderful thing and very purposeful event,” Miller said. “There are many people that are by themselves and shut in. It's a wonderful event for people with small children who don't want to cook.”
Salads, an array of vegetables and pumpkin pie have been ordered, and Gary & Leo's IGA will deliver the turkeys to the Eagles on Saturday.
Bergren said he's unsure how many volunteers will be at the dinner. He won't turn anyone down.
“Whoever wants to volunteer can show up around 10,” he said. “We don't say ‘no' to any volunteers.”
Volunteers can help out with anything from serving coffee to washing dishes.
“Just come in and we'll make do,” Bergren said. “We're flexible and it's a lot of fun.”
Financial donations can be made during the dinner from those wanting to pitch in.
“It's a great deal for the entire community,” Eagles Club manager Tom Farnham said. “It invites all walks of life.”
“I hope it's here for many, many more years,” said Miller.
Residents who want a meal delivered to them can call the North Central Senior Citizens Center by Friday.
