The fourth community dinner already for 2023, the Escalon American Legion Gustafson-Thompson Post 263 was the site for the Saturday night gathering.
Put on by the post members on the third Saturday of the month several times throughout the year, the April 15 dinner marked the fourth consecutive monthly meal for the community.
Post members say it gives them a chance to thank the community residents who support them at many events and gatherings during the year, from parades to special ceremonies, the annual Veterans’ Day services and more.
There is typically a theme for each of the dinners and the April 15 meal featured both grilled tri-tip and chicken. The meat was served with multiple side dishes including a variety of salads, chili beans, rolls, fruited gelatin salad, macaroni and cheese and more. The majority of the dishes are homemade and the main course is cooked up at the Legion Post on Second Street.
There is no charge, though donations are accepted for the meal. The are also beverages available, along with several pies, cakes and cookies for dessert.
It was a full house for the April 15 meal, with estimates of anywhere between 75 and 80 people turning out to enjoy the food, conversation and camaraderie. Attendees ranged from city leaders to docents from the Escalon Historical Society, those active in the Senior Fun Bunch to family and friends of Post members.
One announcement made during the evening was to inform attendees that there won’t be a third Saturday night meal in May. Instead, that third Saturday – May 20 – is Armed Forces Day. That will be the day when the American Legion-American Legion Riders put on their annual Armed Forces Day breakfast.
Scheduled at the Legion Hall, 1531 Second St., the breakfast will be available from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Tickets are $10 per person; no charge for active duty personnel with an ID card.
The menu will include pancakes, scrambled eggs, ham, linguica, fruit cup, milk, juice and coffee. Tickets are available from Legion members and will also be available at the door.
