The name and location have changed, but the idea is the community is invited to attend a free meal Christmas day put on by the Rhinelander Lions Club.
Since 1987, Rhinelander Lions have had this holiday tradition.
Spokesperson Mike Romportl says they've changed the name to the Rhinelander Lions Free Community Christmas Dinner...
"...It is for anybody, and I must stress, anybody, in the community that wishes to come out and have a Christmas Dinner with others. It is not intended to exclude anybody. There are many people that spend the holiday alone. Instead of spending it alone, they can come to the dinner and have free meal with others....."
Romportl says it's a traditional holiday meal with turkey and all the fixings, plus pie and beverages.He says 29 turkeys will be in the oven Christmas morning being prepared for the meal.
The location has changed this year...
"...We're going to be having it at Nativity of Our Lord Parish at 125 East King St. That's near Rhinelander City Hall. It's been moved, it's the first time we've had it there. I would remind the community to be sure to go to that location..."
The hours Christmas Day are 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Rapid Cab will be providing free rides to the King St. Nativity site.
Volunteer drivers will also be delivering meals for those unable to venture out.
Romportl says many volunteers along with Lions Club members make it possible. We have telephone numbers available to order the home-delivered meal and other information here (715-282-5904 to order meal) (715-490-1899 for questions).
