Volunteers carry Talking Over Turkey over the top

By Mark Ribble

If you were to ask Mike and Deanna Diab what makes the Talking Over Turkey campaign such a success, they would be quick to tell you that it is all about the volunteers.

The local couple, who have spearheaded the event for the past several years, were amazed at the generosity of time, effort and donations for this year’s turkey and grocery giveaway.

The event brought hundreds of local residents out, looking for that little extra so they can comfortably put on a Christmas dinner for their family this year.

After two years of COVID restrictions that virtually shut the event down, the Diabs were expecting a robust turnout and that’s exactly what happened.

And aside from the 60-70 volunteers they had already expected, help came from other sources as well.

They told the Sun about a few people who lined up early for their boxes, who actually got out of line to help unload a truckload of potatoes.

At about 7:30 am, a truckload of potatoes arrived at the site on Sherk Street and those in line already could see that help was needed.

“They actually got out of the lineup to help us unload,” says Mike. “That’s what this community is all about.”

Deanna was equally impressed.

“Our hearts are warmed by the outpouring of help in this community,” she said.

The Diabs and their merry band of volunteers worked tirelessly over the past few weeks, setting up donations, purchasing turkeys and pulling it all together for the big day.

When Saturday morning arrived, the volunteers on site worked equally as hard to make sure everyone went away with a box of much-needed Christmas help. In the end, they gave away 712 Christmas boxes.

The Sun County Panthers U16 hockey team showed up to help pack boxes and carry them to the cars for those who couldn’t physically handle that task.

Numerous other volunteers helped with the lines of people and kept everyone informed of where to go, making the line move smoothly and quickly in the cool temperatures.

Many of the folks who were on the receiving end of the campaign took the time to thank Mike and Deanna and their helpers. Hugs were a big part of the day and many were moved to tears as they approached the organizers to thank them.

“It’s heartwarming and it’s also bittersweet,” says Mike.

Donors came through in a big way this year as well and Mike Diab says the economy has a lot to do with that.

“They recognized that the need was greater this year and they stepped up,” he said. Numerous local companies and individuals contributed to Talking Over Turkey and Diab says they are all appreciated greatly.

“We thank all of those who supported us and may have benefited from our event,” Diab said. “We want to wish everyone to continue to have great conversations this holiday season, while Talking Over Turkey!”

Deanna and Mike Diab holding a box of groceries. SUN photos

Volunteer Jana Blair giving out veggies.

Volunteers hard at work getting boxes to the people.

The Talking Over Turkey banner flies proudly during the event. SUN photos

The lineup of residents awaiting their turkeys and groceries.