Living center team puts heart, soul into event

The 18th annual Soul Food Fest is planned from noon to 3 p.m. Friday at Grace Living Center, 1921 NE 21.

The culinary team spends days, and nights, too, preparing for the feast that is an annual celebration of black history at Grace Living Center.

“For so many families, meals mark a special time of togetherness,” said Mary Peacock, administrator at the center. “This event reminds our residents that they continue to be part of a broader family called community. It continues to be the highlight of the year for our residents, our staff and we hope for the community, as well.” Guests will be treated to all of their favorite foods, including ribs, fried chicken, catfish, brisket, pot roast and pig’s feet, as well as fried okra, greens, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, coleslaw and more. Dessert will include sweet potato pie, cream pie, banana pudding, cheesecake, fruit and more.

For Margaret Wright and members of the dietary department at Grace, sleep is a precious commodity in the days leading up to the festival as they spend long hours preparing enough food to feed a small army. “We love what we do,” remarked Wright, who first dreamed up the idea for the festival and launched it in 2000. "We knew our residents would love the food and the music, and we hoped that the community would join in. ”E and E Blues Express will provide live music, encouraging residents, staff and guests to hit the dance floor. The eat-in- only meal is provided free of charge, but donations to the home’s activities fund are welcome.

[PHOTOS PROVIDED] Margaret Wright, dietary supervisor at Grace Living Center, 1921 NE 21, and her team spend days preparing to serve up a heaping helping of food, music and friendship at the home’s annual Soul Food Fest.

Staff and volunteers fill plates to overflowing at last year’s Soul Food Fest. The annual event, which celebrates both black history month and the lives of the residents at Grace Living Center, draws large crowds every year.