Preparations are underway for a Salina tradition to continue, volunteers are getting ready for the 33rd Annual Bill Fekas Family Christmas Dinner.

Chef Bill Fekas joined in on the KSAL Morning News Wednesday with a look behind the food and funding that has helped put a free Christmas dinner on the table for over 30-years.

“I’ve been in the restaurant business all my life,” Fekas said.

“The point is if you don’t prepare you are going to be in trouble.”

Fekas told listeners the economy has taken a bite out of donations this year and he has to pay suppliers in advance.

“The guy selling the turkey says pay or somebody else is going to get it.”

Now monetary donations are needed to fill in the gaps.

The annual gathering has grown from serving about 30 people in 1982 – to over 4,400 in 2014.

Those who want to send a check, mail it to : Bill Fekas Family Christmas Dinner, PO Box 2173 Salina Kansas 67401. Or call 785-827-6262.

The Bill Fekas Family Christmas Dinner is at the 4-H Building in Salina on Christmas Day from11am to 2pm.

https://soundcloud.com/ksal-radio/bill-fekas-ksal-morning-news-12-9-15