By Megan Boatwright, Local News 8 Reporter
Many years ago a woman called 'the Holiday Lady' started a free thanksgiving dinner out of her restaurant in Ashton. Eventually Mary Chriswell's vision was moved to St. Anthony where the Lion's Club took over. 2009 marks the 11th year of serving free holiday meals for the club.
It's the spread of the season. Every dish you want to see at Thanksgiving prepared and served for free. "The mashed potatoes and the ham," said high school student, Luis Gordo. "The corn," said his sister, Flor Gordo. "Idaho potatoes, mashed potatoes," said St. Anthony native, Cathy Koon.
You'll see all kinds of faces at the Lion's Club dinner. From the young college family with loved ones back east. "We're hoping to see them for Christmas," said Wendy Draper. "Budget wise we can't fit Thanksgiving in too so we decided to come here."
To the St. Anthony born and raised who wouldn't take their holiday meal any other way. "The food is great and we always see people we know," said Cathy Koon. "It's become part of the tradition for our family."
To people in need of a helping hand, "It's good to know people care, because there's not always enough money to get everything together," said Flor Gordo.
This year the Lion's Club invited a special family dinner. "Mary Chriswell started the free Thanksgiving dinner in Ashton," said Lion's Club President, Lyndon Rinehart. "When she got sick and couldn't do it anymore a family in St. Anthony took over."
To honor the memory of the woman who started it all, "We've made a plaque and would like to give it to the Chriswell family in appreciation of all Mary has done."
As the families get in line for their meal, "It's really good food, I'm impressed," said Draper. The reason the Lion's Club men keep putting on a meal every year is pretty clear.
Mary Chriswell or 'the holiday lady' past away this fall. The Lion's Club hopes to serve over 400 Upper Valley families this Thanksgiving.
