Ronan to host Thanksgiving dinner
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RONAN – In Ronan, saying thanks on the fourth Thursday in November isn’t just a time for gathering with family and friends. For many, it is a time for spending time with community.
As many as 400 people are expected to chow down on 50 pies, 35 turkeys, and more than 200 pounds of potatoes at the Ronan Community Thanksgiving dinner which will take place on Thanksgiving Day at the Ronan Community Center.
This year will mark the 11th year since the Ronan Chamber of Commerce decided to take responsibility for putting the dinner on. The community event was started approximately 17 years ago by Marie Cowan, who opened the doors of her downtown café to people for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. It was later run by the chamber and Cheri Houle, who moved on from organizing the event this year.
“We are so thankful for all the years Cheri put in,” this year’s organizer Brandy Chisholm said.
The event, which begins at 11 a.m. is currently seeking food donations and volunteers to help cook, clean, and serve. Pre-cooked food for the event can be dropped off at the Ronan Community Center the night before the event beginning at 5 p.m.Those wishing to make cash donations or donations of uncooked food can contact Chisholm beforehand at (406) 250-8808. Potential volunteers can contact Brennin Grainey at 676-4600.
Donations are appreciated, although a few items can’t be served because of health regulations.
“Pumpkin pie is on the ‘don’t’ list,” Chisholm said. “That’s sad because it’s usually what you think of as for Thanksgiving.”
The pie is technically classified as a custard, which makes food storage requirements tricky. Pre-stuffed turkeys also aren’t allowed. Chisholm said she expects the dinner to be great fun, even sans pumpkin pie.
“It’s just a great thing the community does,” Chisholm said.
