GLEN SPEY, NY — As sure as blooming flowers are an indication of spring, around the towns of Lumberland and Highland, signs advertising the community Thanksgiving dinner usher in this special time of the year.

In its fourth year, the community Thanksgiving celebration will take place on Thanksgiving Day, November 23 at the Lumberland Town Hall from 1 to 5 p.m. All are invited.

This community event is the brainchild of Kezia Labuda of Glen Spey, who moved to the area with her husband Kurt Labuda and family five years ago. Their previous hometown had such an event, and Kezia wanted to continue that tradition as an opportunity to do something for the community and a way to bring people together.

Kezia was quick to deflect any attention from herself, noting that many step forward with donations of time, money and excellent home-cooked foods and desserts. She especially gave a shout-out to Bill and Laurie Terry and Mark and Theresa Spradling and their families and Kurt’s mother Kate as having been an essential part of the undertaking from the first year.

And the event has grown each year. The first year Thanksgiving coincided with a significant ice storm after which half of Lumberland residents were without power. Folks were warmed inside and out as they enjoyed the festive environment and abundance of turkey, dressing and all the trimmings. That year, 20 or so workers from Orange & Rockland utility company, who were working in the bitter cold to restore electric, partook as well. 

At first there was a bit of apprehension in the community as to whether there was an ulterior motive, but the event has no religious or political affiliation. It is a pure example of community members coming together to enjoy a good meal and good company. Young people set up a game table and engage in unplugged fun, while adults linger over coffee and pie. 

Attendance has increased each year, and just about everyone who has attended in previous years has returned for generous helpings of good food and camaraderie. The reasons people come are as many as the people themselves. Some come in groups because their families are small and preparing a feast is not cost or time efficient; others may have a family member working that day and they come because of the convenience. Others may be alone or not near to family or friends for a variety of reasons. 

Take-out meals are available, and for those who are shut in, deliveries will be made.  To arrange for delivery or to donate to the event, call 845/344-7297.

According to the organizers, their goal this year and every year is “to serve a full house with no leftovers remaining.”