Last-minute preparations for Christmas are common to many, but not to McCabe’s workers who prepare year-round for their community Christmas dinner.

Auctioning different bar items and selling hotdogs and sodas throughout the year are just two ways McCabe’s Lounge, 323 E. Lincoln Hwy., raises money for its annual benefit.

Owner/Manager Glenn Goering said half of the money used for the annual community dinner is raised during CornFest.

Not only is food sold during CornFest, but each year Goering, his brother Bob and other members of the McCabe’s staff set up a dunk tank.

For a price, CornFest participants can try to dunk one of the “sitting ducks.” Money rasied from the game is contributed directly to the community dinner.

Goering said there is never any extra money because any funds exceeding the cost of food is used to purchase canned foods.

A canned food drive already was conducted this year, and the food will be handed out at the community dinner.

e said about 400 pounds of turkey breast, which takes about an enire day to slice, was used to feed the hundreds of people who attended last year.

All community members are invited to have dinner at McCabe’s or volunteer their services, Goering said. He said this event is for everyone, not just the needy. The more people who show up the better, he said.

Goering said this is not a promotional event. Instead, it is something coming straight from the heart.

Goering said since he has started this tradition his Christmases have become much more awarding and fulfilling. “Christmas really means something.”