Christmas dinner needs ‘mobile miracle’

• Reprints

In Wednesday’s paper, many of you read that free transportation will not be provided for the annual “Spirit of Christmas” dinner from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Ivy Tech Community College, 1440 E. 35th Ave.

Previously, transportation to the free dinner has been provided by the Gary Community School Corp. bus company, allowing those without personal transportation to enjoy a free Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and then some.

Illinois Central, a bus company with a contract to the GCSC, asked for $1,500 to bring attendees to and from the event. State Rep. Vernon Smith, founder and co-host of the dinner with Joyce Washington-Price, Dwight Pointer and Dwight Williams, said in Wednesday’s story they do not have the money.

The dinner will go on because, as I’ve seen while covering this event, Smith and his friends work diligently to make things work.

Having no transportation for those not living within walking distance — attendees in the past have come from Gary, New Chicago, Lake Station and Hobart — will pose a logistical problem. For many, this likely will be their meal for the day, and their only chance for fellowship with others.

Attendees I’ve talked to in the past smiled while enjoying a feast of turkey, chicken and dressing, ham, yams, vegetables, desserts, pop or sparkling juice.

In the “Spirit of Christmas,” maybe a mobile miracle will happen.

Volunteers also are needed before, during and after the event. To help or for more information, call Smith at 887-2046.

Many of you are making plans to ring in 2012. If you are planning to go out on New Year’s Eve, but want to have some relaxation at a reasonable price, consider attending the New Year’s Eve Pamper Party.

Gary native Ebony Lynn, an aesthetician and model, is hosting the event from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 31 at the YWCA, 150 W. 15th Ave. Lynn founded Ebony and Company.

Admission is free and, for discounted prices, you can enjoy spa services like a mini-aromatherapy facial for $20, a paraffin hand treatments for $15, and more. Vendors will be there, and more treats.

For more information or to R.S.V.P., call 292-1485 or visit the website www.ebonyandcompany.net.