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A few hours after completing the La Conner Turkey Trot, Jaime Stroebel-Reinstra was keeping a brisk pace as a volunteer server at the Waterfront Café's community Thanksgiving Day meal.

She and others – including her own family members – who pitched in to help with the annual fundraiser for local charities were kept busy throughout a three-hour early afternoon shift last Thursday.

"We had more reservations and more people this year than ever before," Waterfront Café co-owner Marla Vallee told the Weekly News.

Vallee said 154 people were served and dinner donations stood at $2,375 at the end of the day. The total is expected to rise.

"We often get a few more donations after Thanksgiving," noted Vallee, who said proceeds this year benefit the La Conner Sunrise Food Bank and Northwest Organization for Animal Help (NOAH) in Stanwood.

On Thanksgiving the Waterfront Café serves a free holiday meal with all the fixings, giving diners the option of donating to selected local worthy causes.

The sit-down format is ideal for those with no family in the area, are unable to prepare their own Thanksgiving dinner, or who simply want to enjoy the company of friends, neighbors and the Waterfront Café staff and event volunteers – like Stroebel-Reinstra.

"It was an amazing day," Stroebel-Reinstra said. "Marla and Guy (Vallee) are so kind and generous. We're thankful we're able to give back."

She and her husband, La Conner Fire Chief/Code Enforcement Officer Aaron Reinstra, know first-hand the positive impact of the Waterfront Café's Thanksgiving. Nearly a decade ago it generated funds to help defray medical costs in support of their daughter, Ashlyn, who was then amid a successful battle with a serious health condition.

"It's been nine years," Stroebel-Reinstra said, "since they donated to Ashlyn on Thanksgiving."

While First Street was unusually quiet with most parking spaces empty, there was a festive vibe inside. The kitchen bustled as a steady stream of diners, including Mayor-elect Marna Hanneman, found their way to tables as soon as they were made ready.

"She's a regular," Vallee said. "We love Marna."

Vallee said their Café, like those who seek local elective or appointed office, is committed to public service.

"We are blessed," she said, "to be part of this community."

The proof is in the checks that will be sent to the food bank and animal shelter.