Community invited for holiday meal

By Rita Howell
What started out as an annual free meal for the underprivileged has developed into a  Thanksgiving Day feast offered at the National Guard Armory in Batesville to anyone who might not otherwise have a special dinner to enjoy.
It’s the fifth year for this free traditional meal.
The brainchild of Gale Bean, the Thanksgiving Day dinner is prepared and served by her army of volunteers, who’ll even deliver plates to those who can’t get out and enjoy the fellowship at the armory.
Bean is assisted by donors who provide food, funds and delivery service. Jimmy Hines and members of the VFW deliver meals to homes.
About 30 volunteers help out at the armory on Thanksgiving, she said.
Ladies from a number of local churches bake cakes and pies for dessert, Bean said.
What the planners are hoping is that anyone who would like to enjoy the meal will feel free to come.
“That’s what we’re looking for,” said Jeffery Bean, Gale’s husband and partner in the venture, “not necessarily needy, but just coming to enjoy the fellowship.”
Volunteers will serve Thanksgiving Dinner from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Anyone who needs a ride to the armory can call Bean at 609-3846. Anyone who needs to have a meal delivered can call the same number.