MIDDLEBURY — For the 18th year running, a group of local families will host a Christmas Day dinner for area residents. The event has become a tradition for many in the Middlebury area with scores of guests each year. The meal will be served regardless of the weather conditions.
The Community Christmas Day Dinner will be held at The Commons in Middlebury at 4 p.m. on Dec. 25, as usual. The Commons is across the street from the Memorial Sports Center on Buttolph Drive. 
The dinner is free, and one volunteer noted that “the  only cost is a smile.”
“We are working with the staff at The Commons to make this a special time,” organizers said. “We have many ‘Santa’s helpers’ to bring food, help serve and lead caroling. Our community support of our Friday dinners has been heart warming and is appreciated by our guests.
The Community Christmas Dinner had about 100 attendees last year and organizers are prepared and look forward to 100-plus community members joining in the holiday celebration this year.
Reservations are appreciated and transportation will again be offered to those who need it. Reserve a spot of get a ride by calling Dottie Neuberger at 388-7613 or Pat Chase at 382-9325.
This Christmas Day Dinner was started in 2000 by Betsy Gleason and Dottie Neuberger. Donations of time, food and funds have been contributed by many individuals and businesses.
Please note that Community Suppers will still be on Friday, Dec. 22, and will be held in Fellowship Hall of the Middlebury Congregational Church.’