Thousands partake in Houston's Superfeast

HOUSTON Nine-thousand pounds of turkey and 400 gallons of gravy were served up at the annual Superfeast. That free meal is open to anyone who wants to take part.

It was the way Houston loves to celebrate Thanksgiving: good food, good weather and a thankful crowd.

"The food, the people, they're great out here," participant Karen Stimits said. "That's why I come every year". Every year for the past quarter-century, Houstonians have been reaching out to one another on Thanksgiving, sharing a meal, and so much more, at the Superfeast.

"I've been out here since like 4:15(am). It's worth it. It's worth it," volunteer Myra Johnson said.

The work does start early, with volunteers showing up on the steps of City Hall when it's still dark, and taking on the simplest of tasks, rolling napkins and utensils, setting up trash cans, and of course, warming the ovens.

"It's just good to give back, and it's good to help out people and it's good to see people who don't usually have a Thanksgiving, have a Thanksgiving," Johnson said.

"I can't give money so I can give time, I can give back," volunteer Serena Gianukos said.

The months of preparation lead to happy hungry faces lined up for a feast.

"I love coming here, meet all the wonderful people, enjoying the Thanksgiving spirit," participant Ronald Thomas said.

There are two moonwalks, a huge stage for music, and Santa's taking there to take photos with children. City Hall wasn't be the only place serving turkey today.

Houston's Citywide Club also hosted its 32nd annual Thanksgiving feast over at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Thousands of people were offered a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and volunteers.

Some 250 people living in area shelters also were treated to their Thanksgiving dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe in the afternoon.

Employees of the restaurant served the meal, along with a visit from Santa complete with gifts. Children make up about half of the expected guests.