WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
This has been a great autumn. Just about all the leaves are on the ground, my lawn mower is put away, and the snow blower is ready for action. This Thursday we celebrate Thanksgiving. For most of us, this is the time to count our many blessings. Unfortunately, there are some still looking for their next meal or a warm place to keep warm during the cold nights.Every year I like to remind everyone that there are folks out there who will not be sitting down to a hot meal with loving friends and relatives. If you know someone in this situation, invite them to join you, or prepare a plate with all of the trimmings and take it to them. In doing so, your bountiful meal will taste that much better.
There are also several organizations in the Three Rivers area that are offering a FREE dinner to those in need. If you’d like that warm fuzzy feeling, volunteer to help out at one of these dining establishments. One such organization is the Trinity Episcopal Church, 321 North Main Street, Three Rivers. The church will host their 21st Annual FREE Thanksgiving Eve Dinner this Wednesday, November 21, from 4 to 6 PM. Volunteers from several area churches are working together to put on this project. The dinner is FREE, and all are welcome. There will be a donation box available for those wishing to contribute. The menu will consist of turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, corn, pickled beets, cranberry relish, rolls, and, of course, pie. The volunteers want to stress to the community that this dinner isn’t just for the less fortunate. It is for anyone who wishes to enjoy a good meal and socialize with neighbors and friends. For more information, call the church at 269-273-3795.
The Three Rivers community has many outstanding citizens. If you’re lucky, you know them as friends. Most of these friends do phenomenal things without standing in the spotlight. Earl Stark was such a friend. Raised in Colon, he eventually made his home here in Three Rivers. He was a police officer( I don’t care for the term “Cop”) for many years and eventually rose to the position of Police Chief. After retiring from the police force, he sought the position of City Commissioner, and he won. He served the community well and never sought the spotlight. That’s just the way he was. I knew him best as a fellow Lion member. He was always a joy to be with, and his sense of humor was unique. To use a familiar saying, “He’d give you the shirt off his back” would probably best describe Earl. My condolences go out to Fran and the rest of the Stark family. He loved his family and was extremely proud of his sons and grandchildren. He loved them all, and they knew that. We loved Earl, too, and I’m pretty sure he knew that as well.
Next weekend the seasonal festivities begin. On Saturday in historic downtown Three Rivers, everyone is invited to stop by for the “Holiday Hunt” at Lowry’s Books and More, enjoy delicious food and beverages at Belle Epoque, have your face painted at The Downtown Dog, greet and visit with Santa at the Riviera Theatre, participate in cookie decorating at World Fare, be entertained by carolers, and witness the tree lighting at Mural Mall. The activities start around 10AM, with the tree lighting finale at 5:15.
The fun continues Sunday, November 25. Start out the day with a delicious brunch at Belle Epoque from 10:30AM to 2:30PM, followed by another chance to visit with Santa at the Riviera from noon to 4PM. FREE photos will be provided by Walgreens. Wrap up your Sunday afternoon with a visit to Ridgeway Floral, where you’ll be able to enjoy their Annual Holiday Open House from noon until 4PM.
There’s always something fun and entertaining going on in the Three Rivers community. All you need to do is get off that couch and seek out the adventure.
I wish each and every one of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. May you be thankful for your many blessings and share them with those less fortunate.
See you Out and About!
Submitted by Norm Stutesman
