Once again, the opportunity is nearing to enjoy a home-cooked meal while both supporting and listening to young musical talent.
The Jasper Junior/Senior High School (JHS) bands will host the 38th annual band turkey dinner on Thursday, March 7 at the Jasper Activity Centre.
“It’s been embraced by the community for all these years,” said Ann Thomas, one of the dinner’s co-ordinators. All proceeds will go to the JHS band program, which consists of 75 students.
Band teacher Jonathan Thornton “is a big part of why [the band program is] so popular,” she commends.
There will be continuous servings between 5 and 8 p.m., as well as double serving lines, which will virtually eliminate waiting for dinner.
Of course, the senior and jazz bands will have an early meal because they’ll play throughout the evening while people indulge in the feast.
Last year’s turkey dinner filled more than 500 hungry stomachs and raised $5,000.
“We’ve bought more turkeys and more stuffing this year, in anticipation,” said Thomas.
Chef Diane Johnston “runs a tight ship and keeps everything moving well.” Adding to the team this year are two new dinner co-ordinators, Gail Henderson and Susan Stainton.
Band students help set up and bus tables and parents do prep work all day. Many businesses also help make the dinner a success, adds Thomas.
Tickets for the turkey dinner are $15 for adults, $5 for students. Children five and under are free.
Tickets are available at the door, or in advance from Buffalo Betty’s Gifts, More Than Mail and Tekarra Color Lab.
