Oskaloosa Has Much To Be Thankful For

Community members enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal prepared by local churches.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The holidays are a time for family, friends, and connecting with those around us.

On Thursday afternoon, members of the public met at the American Legion where the church community was serving a Thanksgiving dinner.

Pastor Jon Nelson from the Central Reformed Church said that by noon, approximately 140 persons had been through the door, just a half-hour after serving began. Among those enjoying the meal were students from William Penn University who were unable to return home for the holiday.

A variety of circumstances brought others to the community meal. Some may not have family in the area, or financial circumstances kept them from buying and preparing a meal.

“There are multiple churches working together,” said Nelson. Churches helped to prepare the food, serve and then clean up the Legion Hall afterward. “We’ve got a great amount of help. It’s wonderful.”

At the Mahaska County Law Center, first responders had an opportunity to sit down together and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Community members cooked and delivered it, so 911 staff and jail staff could also participate.

“We can’t thank Osky News, Jim and Jane Walker with Mahaska County CERT, Wyndell Campbell State Farm, and Hy-Vee for putting this all together once again. They make sure that those who are still here answering the 911 calls, responding to the 911 calls, making sure our community remains safe, get a little something to eat,” said Mahaska County Emergency Manager Jamey Robinson.

“We may not be home with our families, but we are with our families,” added Robinson.

People shared their thoughts on why Thanksgiving was special for them this year.

Holly Ridenour “Time with family is always top on the list, but this year my kids had an opportunity to give back to the community, and that was a special opportunity.”

Gloria Wessley Buckallew “After several years of not being able to, we spent today with family, and although we missed those not able to be with us, it was good.”

Susan Scott Miller “I spent my day at my parents. Listened to my dad sing like he does for all the customers at Walmart.”

Marcy Jo Emehiser “This is my first Thanksgiving back “home” in Iowa! So thankful and blessed!”

Diane DeZwarte “All of our family was together! Our youngest son has been diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease but is doing really well now. So thankful for all the people who have prayed and walked this journey with him.”

Charlotte Katko “For the first time in 25 years, I get to spend Thanksgiving weekend with my family. When my business closed this year, I hoped I would be able to find work where I didn’t have to work holidays, nights or weekends.”

“I got a great job at an awesome company with a regular 8-5 schedule, and this has been the best Thanksgiving ever!”

Deanna De Jong “It’s a celebration anytime we have all four kids under one roof at the same time. A rare occasion.”

Bruce Peiffer “It’s one holiday where we just enjoy our company and a good meal giving thanks to God for all things good. And no commercialism.”

Stephani Moore “After many failed attempts I finally moved to Japan in July to work as an English teacher. I spent Thanksgiving teaching my students about turkey and being grateful that I have this opportunity!”

Seth Brown “Got to bring my Baby Girl Brighton Grace in the world the day before Thanksgiving!! So spent Thanksgiving Day loving on her!! Couldn’t ask for a better Day!”

Amy Duke “This was the last Thanksgiving we were promised to spend with our son Hunter Else before he leaves for Army basic training in June. Every day spent with family and friends is a blessing.”

Jacque Griffin “Celebrating with Family– and our first Thanksgiving as grandparents!!! Kash Philip was a big hit at Thanksgiving this year:)”

Samantha Boger Krusemark “Having my family at home for 5 days! Kids off of school and hubby off of work and I get them all to myself.”

Wendy Van Roekel “I spent 2018 Thanksgiving in New Zealand with my daughter and my Dad – a three generations road trip of the North Island. This is definitely one to remember!”

David Harvey “Got to enjoy seeing Oskaloosa lit up with all its stunning Christmas lights. Plus, the day was exceptionally relaxing.”