Christmas meal preparations underway

Sharon Goins, coordinator of the Holiday Spirit Meals, says that plans are on track for the annual Christmas meal set to be served in the Empire Room of Wilbarger Auditorium on Christmas Day, Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2018.
“Everything is pretty well on track. We may be a little down in call-in requests, but I think everything will pick up” Goins said.
The meal is free and will be served from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m., on Christmas Day. Take outs will also be available.
The menu will be the traditional Christmas dinner including turkey, ham, dressing, gumbo, blackeyed peas, pea salad, cranberry sauce and other fare including a variety of desserts.
A highlight for those dining in on Christmas Day will be the appearance of Santa Claus who will visit with the children.
Residents unable to go to the auditorium may have a meal delivered. Goins said a total of 83 meals had so far been requested to be delivered. Phone calls may be made by calling 552-9436 until through Friday, Dec. 21, 2018.
Those calling should leave their name, address, phone number and number of meals to be delivered.
The meals will be delivered on Christmas Day within the Vernon city limits.
Goins noted that volunteers may wish to help with preparations for the big day which will include smoking the turkeys on Friday, Dec. 21; slicing the turkeys beginning at 9 a.m., on Saturday, Dec. 22; big prep day on Sunday, Dec. 23, beginning around 1:30 p.m., and Tuesday, Dec. 25, the day of the meal.
Last year, 816 meals were served including 477 deliveries, 174 to-go meals and 165 who dined at the auditorium.
Recent contributions to the program have included: Faye Standridge, Dr. and Mrs. Todd Smith, Mrs. Patty Haney, Joe Bacon, Merlien Bishop, Carolyn Rozzell, Cathy Dickerson, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Spears, Mark Schiwart, Nina Bromfield, Lou Byrd, Mr. and Mrs. Larry McClure, Three Hearts Steakhouse, Glenna Bryant in memory of Pat Bryant, VFW (smoker), Dustin Thompson (smoker) and Kim and Patty Kidd (smoker.)
For any questions contact Goins at 940-552-9436.