December Column Winner

A Bubble Off Plumb

By Connie Burcham, Watonga Republican

More and more things are going the way of the dodo bird because of lack of support and people who should know better taking advantage of a good thing.

In this specific situation I’m talking about the annual Christmas meal put on at the Blaine County Fairgrounds. It went to just drive through service during the pandemic and has never gone back to dine in. 

That doesn’t mean it is easy. Putting together a full holiday meal for an unknown number of guests is a monumental undertaking. The Pinkertons have been ramrodding the event since Santa was in diapers, but they are understandably weary. There has been talk of discontinuing the event. So far, no one has stepped up to take the reins. 

But it is one of the great things about our town and it would be a shame for it to end. So how can we as residents make sure it continues?

That is easy. Get involved and/or give.

I recognize not everyone is Daddy Warbucks with a bank account to match. But we all have some time we could offer. If you are going to be too busy on Christmas Day, volunteer before then setting up, fetching and carrying, picking up needed items and answering the phone.

If you can’t squeeze an extra minute out of your December schedule, then donate money. Or call and ask what is needed, maybe paper towels or other necessities are in short supply but you have a case of Bounty in the garage.

Do you own a business? Sponsor a few plates. It won’t be simple to decide how much that is worth but give it a go. It could also be a good place to fill out your end of year giving list.

It probably costs $7,500 annually to put on this meal, yet there is never a charge to eat.

If your situation dictates not spending any money this year and you can’t volunteer because of physical limitations or time demands, that’s OK. There is something else you can do.

When you arrive to pick up your meal, be early enough to get a plate. Wait patiently. Be prepared to accept the standard meal, not asking for special orders. Only take what you need. Don’t look to fill your freezer for the next six months. Don’t expect to feed your 87 visiting relatives. And for the love of all that is holy, be polite. Thank the volunteers who bring the meals out to your car. That is absolutely free, probably makes the day of the volunteer and it shows that the work that goes into this event is appreciated, and the people who volunteer their time and skills are valued.

Later, maybe send a thank you card or note to the folks who put it on.

And next year, when your situation is different, remember this meal and help where you can as you can.

After all, the holidays are a time to show gratitude and love. This meal is a tangible expression of love, and it is fueled by gratitude. It is the reflection of our community, who we are and what we care about. It is about the commitment of a few folks that no one should go hungry – or just with-out a festive holiday meal – on Christmas.

It would be a shame to let all this end because of the lack of volunteers and because the only thing the sponsors get for their hard work are complaints.