CHIMACUM — Volunteers are planning for an extra-large crowd at today’s annual Thanksgiving Day dinner at the Tri-Area Community Center.

“We’re preparing for a few more this year because of the economic situation,” Hugh Murphy, the dinner’s volunteer coordinator and publicist said Wednesday, watching as other volunteers carved up ham and turkey inside the kitchen at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church.

Murphy said that volunteers were preparing for more than 300 people, 70 of when would have meals delivered to their homes by two volunteer drivers.

The Thanksgiving meal — from noon to 3 p.m. at the community center, 10 West Valley Road in Chimacum — is a tradition for many who come every year.

While the turkey and ham are carved up at the church kitchen, stuffing, mashed potatoes, carrots, pumpkin pie and other side dishes are prepared at the community center kitchen.

St. Vincent de Paul sponsors dinner

The free dinner, sponsored by St. Vincent de Paul, St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Olympic Community Action Programs, Senior Nutrition and the community center, will be cooked and served by volunteers.

Last year, up to 50 volunteers — including six cooks from St. Mary Star of the Sea and St. Vincent de Paul Society — joined with others from OlyCAP to put on the feast.

Murphy said there has never been a shortage of volunteer help for the dinner.

He said QFC supermarket and Sysco Corp., a food service supplier, plus Pane D’Amore Bakery offered discounts or donated food.

Those unable to attend who would like to have the meal delivered can phone 360-385-2571, ext. 6357.

Leave a message, and arrangements will be made to deliver the meal.

Another Thanksgiving Day dinner is planned at the Brinnon Community Center, 306144 U.S. Highway 101, at 3 p.m. Thursday.

Turkey, dressing, gravy and mashed potatoes will be provided.

Participants are asked to bring side dishes.

For more information, phone Jim McLaughlin at 360-432-9547.

Other events scheduled for today:

• Port Townsend resident Terry Wagner will host her fourth annual yoga class benefit for the Port Townsend branch of the Jefferson County Food Bank from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Quimper Unitarian Universalist Church, 2333 San Juan Ave.

The cost of admission to the class is a non-perishable food item or monetary donation to the food bank.

Wagner, who has more than 30 years experience as a teacher, will adapt the class to meet the needs of those who attend.

• A Thanksgiving peace vigil and potluck picnic will be take place from noon to 2 p.m. today at Lloyd L. Goode Park on Indian Island, across state Highway 117 from the gates to Naval Magazine Indian Island Members of the public are asked to bring food and drink to share.

In sunny weather, the picnic will be at the park shelter. In blustery weather, participants will spend a half-hour or so at the park, and then go to a nearby house.

For more information, phone 360-379-9192.

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Port Townsend-Jefferson County Editor Jeff Chew can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at jeff.chew@peninsuladailynews.com.