They came to the Montgomery Neighborhood Center by the dozens, young and old, looking for warmth and nourishment. As they waited in line outside an old-fashioned, sun-soaked gymnasium, Rosa Wims greeted them at the door. 

Some faces were familiar and others were new. All of them received a welcoming smile and a hefty meal at the 31st edition of Rosa’s Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner on Cady Street. 

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TV news cameras gave her plenty of attention — and with good reason — as she took all of their questions. When you spend a majority of your nine decades on this earth serving others, people take notice. 

“A love for people,” Wims told a cameraman from 13 WHAM News on Friday when asked what brings her back year after year. “The smiles. The children. And to see some of the kids grow up and remember me — that’s a blessing.” 

D&C VIDEO: Rosa talks about the tradition

Rice. Stuffing. Sweet Potatoes. Beans. Corn. Collared greens. Turkey. Salad. Sweet Potato Pie. Cookies. Bread. In. That. Order. 

Yes, the neighborhood got fed. 

And they’ll get fed next year, too. While Rosa has admitted she’ll likely take on a smaller role in organizing and planning the event in the years to come, the show will go on and she’ll show up as long as she’s able. 

Thanks to all of our dedicated volunteers and, of course, Foodlink’s Community Kitchen staff for preparing a delicious meal. And a special thanks to Palmer Food Services for donating and preparing the turkey this year.

Another meal from Corn Hill’s most famous holiday host is in the books. The tradition lives on. And tonight, nobody will be going to sleep on an empty stomach.