The weather couldn't have been any nicer for the seniors who took the stroll down to their Senior Community Hall at 41 Deming Way in Wilmington. The sun was shining during an unseasonably warm day in the middle of November as the temperature hovered in the low 60s. But the weather wasn't on forefront of this retired lot's mind, it was the free food.

"I just like getting fat," said one resident.

Every year, for about the last eight, the Wilmington Police Patrolman's Union, a local affiliate of the New England Police Benevolent Association, hosts their annual Thanksgiving Day dinner for the Deming Way residents. This year was a hit, as most years' dinners here are.

"It's really blossomed into something very nice," said Matt Stavro, treasurer of the union.

President of the police union, Butch Alpers introduced the event to just over 20 seniors in attendance. Alpers gave thanks to Representative Jim Miceli whom, he said, has been generous to the union and to the seniors as well over his years in political service. Alpers also gave a special thanks to the Housing Authority, the high-school seniors and other residents of Wilmington who volunteered to make this day possible.  

After the thanks was given and a blessing to those who have passed before us was finished, Union members and their families served the turkey and fixings to the guests that was prepared by Rocco's Restaurant.

"Something we look forward to every year," said Alpers. "It's quite worthwhile." 

Policeman Paul Chalifour, the Union's Secretary and Wilmington Police Dept. historian, was also on-hand serving the seniors, as was David Sugrue, son of Det. David Sugure. Sugure, who was singled out by Alpers with a special mention in his round of thank yous, was also nice enough to deliver meals to the Deming Way seniors who were not able to make the walk down to Community Hall.

Proceeds from the Union's annual telephone fundraiser in the spring help pay for the event, said Stavro. The fundraiser helps fund other functions the Union puts together as well, like the monthly movie breakfast they serve with coffee, bagels and muffins for the seniors.