RESERVE — St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre will host his annual Senior Citizens Thanksgiving Luncheon Tuesday at the Regala Park gym in Reserve.

BINGO begins at 10:30 a.m., and lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m.

“We’ve got to continue to take care of our seniors,” said Tregre, who has carried on the long-standing tradition throughout his administration. “We will continue to be there for them.”

Besides good food, the event offers entertainment, door prizes, an appearance by McGruff the Crime Dog and other “special appearances,” Tregre said.

Rita Mae Johnson said she has been attending the annual luncheon for years.

“My mama, Josephine Jones, she used to go every year,” Johnson said. “It’s fun being with everybody and seeing people you haven’t seen in a long time. They have games and prizes and the food is delicious. I really do enjoy it. I haven’t won any prizes though.”

Jones will not be going home empty handed this year. She and all other attendees will be given a specially painted rock.

Capitalizing on the local hide and seek rock game, the Sheriff’s Office has been soliciting the public for painted rocks to give away at Tuesday’s luncheon.

“It has been overwhelming,” Tregre said.

“The rocks are just beautiful. I had no idea people were this talented and have the patience to take the time to do this. Man, are they pretty.”