INDUSTRY — A community social started by the Industry Community Kitchen continued throughout the year, doubling in size.

Offered every other Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Town Hall, the event includes a free meal, conversation, games and activities.

In January 2013, the group wanted to continue beyond the winter, said Lisa Mason-Tyler, president of Industry Community Kitchen.

As people gathered for a holiday meal on Dec. 19, 2012, it was more than the food that kept them coming.

“It’s the sociability,” said Barbara Hutchinson, who usually attends. “There’s a lot of good people here and good times.”

That’s one thing Mason-Tyler has noticed. “They see people here that they never get a chance to talk to,” she said.

Attendance at the meals has grown, more than doubling over the year, she said. 

Beano, puzzles and programs are offered, including one by Franklin County Sheriff Scott Nichols, who spoke at a fall social about safety and scams. It was well-received, Mason-Tyler said.

She’d like to see more families or stay-at-home moms with young children attend.

“It’s open for everyone,” she said.

Although a free meal, it becomes a group effort. Members bring in dishes and some from the community like to bring something to add to the meal, such as rolls or bread, she said.

The Industry Community Kitchen tackled other projects this year. A community garden provided vegetables to residents, and a community yard sale and holiday bazaar were organized mostly to offer others a chance to sell their items. The group also held a “well-attended” boiled dinner to raise money to support their efforts.

abryant@sunjournal.com

Revisiting the top stories of 2013

The Sun Journal staff writers and photographers have updated the top stories in our communities.