Thanksgiving is often synonymous with turkey, cranberry sauce, family, and football. But it can be a hard holiday for those pinching pennies or without family in the area. Records go back to 1997, documenting that the United Protestant Church of Silver Bay has provided a community Thanksgiving dinner, offering community and a meal to all. Now in 2023, the dinner is back after a COVID-imposed hiatus.
Thanksgiving is a holiday of gratitude, and research has shown that expressing gratitude is good for your mental health. It increases happiness and empathy, reduces depression and aggression, interrupts self-criticism, and cultivates love. Thanksgiving was celebrated intermittently as a national holiday from 1789, when President George Washington made a proclamation at request of Congress, until 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise”.
Mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, and beverages are provided by the church, and attendees can bring a dish to share. The Salvation Army provides the turkeys. The tables are often loaded with salads, dressings, desserts, and more. This year, a local couple donated 10 pies from Rustic Inn. A grant was obtained from Thrivent Financial to cover some of the meal costs. 80 to 90 people are typically in attendance, hailing from all over the area, with some even coming from Superior.
The meal will be held on Thursday, November 23rd. It begins at 1 p.m., but doors will open shortly beforehand for punch and refreshments. Reservations are appreciated to help the servers be prepared. The dinner is a festive opportunity for all who would like to spend time with others from the community.
