By LEONARD GRAY / L’Observateur / November 30, 1998

RESERVE – Matt Ory’s Thanksgiving feast Wednesday attracted hundreds to the free luncheon and applauded not only Ory’s generosity but also the cause which brought the event together.

Ory’s cause is special education in public and parochial schools. The St.John Parish School Board member made available newly-designed T-shirts which proclaim: “St. John the Baptist Parish: My Heart, My Heritage, MyHome.”Proceeds from the sale of the $8 shirts, available in green and white varieties, will go toward a special education recognition program.

Ory said he is challenging schools to sell the shirts for even more rewards. East St. John High School, where the Wednesday meal was held,was challenged by Ory to sell 400 shirts, and Ory pledged he would buy a new American flag for the school gymnasium.

The guests, most of whom were local senior citizens, were treated to turkey, cranberry sauce, jambalaya, peas, yams, homemade bread and cake.

The 28 student servers included members of East St. John’s Math Club, 4-HJunior Leaders Club and cheerleading squad. Other volunteers came fromOry’s employer, DuPont, some Kaiser Aluminum strikers, and the East St.

John Booster Club.

Ory also said he plans a similar free luncheon on Dec. 22.

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