Before catching Black Friday sales, local residents have a different reason to go to a shopping mall. Thursday Bob Vogelbaugh will host his 44th annual Thanksgiving dinner at SouthPark Mall in Moline.
Vogelbaugh started the tradition when he invited people who didn't have a place to go for Thanksgiving to join him for dinner in his home. And, it kept growing, eventually moving to SouthPark Mall - through several changes in ownership - where it's been held for the last 32 years. Last year, nearly 3,000 people came out to celebrate the holiday.
Since current owner, Macerich, tore down the food court at SouthPark, this year's turkey dinner will be served held in the former Old Navy store.
Mr. Thanksgiving says dinner will be served Thursday from 4 until 6:30 pm. And volunteers are invited to come beginning at 8 am.
