By Rita Howell
For the fourth year, Gale Bean has focussed her attention not on her own family’s Thanksgiving meal, but on setting the table for a community meal to welcome anyone who has no other opportunity to enjoy a holiday dinner.

Next Thursday, the tables will be set and decorated at the Batesville National Guard Armory on Keating Road. There will be turkey, dressing and all the trimmings, offered free of charge to anyone who wants to come. The meal will be served from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

“If they can’t come, we’ll deliver it,” Bean said. “But we really want them to come eat with us and enjoy the fellowship.”

An army of volunteers steps up to help each year. Food, paper goods, time and labor are donated. People seek out Bean to hand her cash contributions.

Even with some food donations, it still costs about $1,000 to host the meal.

Bean is preparing for 300 guests.

Anyone who would like to have a meal delivered by the Brotherhood Motorcycle Club, or get more information, can call 609-3846 or 934-5248.