26 Sep 2009 Centennial making plans for Thanksgiving dinner

“When Catherin and Bob Blankenship announced that 2008 would be the last year they would organize the Thanksgiving dinner, we approached them about Centennial Bank assuming that responsibility,” said Lori Case, senior vice president for marketing. “This event is a testament to our community’s commitment to provide for those who are not able to share this special holiday with friends and loved ones.

“We have much to be thankful for at Centennial Bank and feel that it is highly appropriate that we give back to the community that has given so much to us by organizing this meal of thanksgiving.”

Traditionally held at Second Baptist Church, last year’s Thanksgiving dinner fed about 600 people, with 300 of those meals delivered. (A location for this year’s event has not been finalized.)

Centennial Bank, headquartered in Conway, has locations throughout Central Arkansas and in Florida.

“We commend and thank the Blankenships for starting this wonderful community tradition,” said Centennial CEO Randy Sims. “A lot of details are still to be worked out, but the community can rest assured that this special holiday tradition will continue for years to come.”

501 LIFE is lending a helping hand with the dinner and will be a sponsor for the event. “We are excited to give back to the community in this special way,” said 501 Publisher Donna Spears.

Check out the November “Holidays” issue of 501 LIFE for additional details about the dinner.