Before the delicious meal even began, the celebration was in full swing. The bass of music from the parking lot cut through the stillness of that holiday morning as volunteers gathered around the barbecue pits. These pits promised to deliver glistening turkey legs, setting the stage for a memorable Thanksgiving feast.

An Annual Community Staple

At the annual Joe Salem Thanksgiving Dinner, the true essence lies not just in the customary foods piled high on plates but in the fellowship among chefs, organizers, servers, and pitmasters. They work together seamlessly to orchestrate the delivery of this no-cost dinner through a drive-thru system. According to organizers, around 40 volunteers showed up to offer their help on Thursday. This year marked the 81st edition of this community staple, which pays tribute to the late Joe Salem, a local businessman and philanthropist.

The Volunteers - A Family Reunion

Cheryl Goffigon and Angela Hastings are two such volunteers. They both started volunteering at this event about 30 years ago as part of their church group. Goffigon has been attending every year, while Hastings goes every other year, alternating with out-of-town family visits. For these volunteers, each Thanksgiving is like a family reunion. As Goffigon said, "Everybody that has been here more than once or twice is like family. When we see each other, we learn about (tragedy), we learn about joy, what people are going through in life." It's about bringing a smile to others, as both Hastings and Goffigon added. " (People) receive what you give out. If you give out joy and let them know that you care about them and want to help, they receive that. … That’s what I believe."

Helping Those in Need

Outside, volunteers armed with walkie talkies guided the traffic flow into the parking lot of Sokol gym. The line of vehicles backed up from the driveway all the way into the street. An emcee got the crowd excited, urging the waiting motorists to use their "horns if you’re ready to eat some turkey." This call was followed by a chorus of honks. Juan Ortiz, 67, was the fourth in line for a plate. It was his second year to pick up a dinner. His wife has dementia and can no longer cook, and he doesn't know how to make a turkey. "I really appreciate it," he said as his truck was parked and the windows were down while he waited in line. "Every bit helps."

A Promise Kept

The event was a great success, said organizer Lisa Saenz on Thursday afternoon. About 548 plates were distributed. They plan to be back next year, she added. Saenz had given her word to Salem before he passed away that she would continue the event. "I’m a woman of my word," Saenz said. "I will continue to do it … until my body says, ‘no more.’"