TLOD annual Kelly Miller Smith Thanksgiving Dinner

Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) and KMST Social Worker. (photo by D. Culp)
Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) and KMST Social Worker. (photo by D. Culp)

To see more photos from the event, click HERE.

Every year for years, the Nashville Chapter of the ‘Top Ladies of Distinction’ (TLOD) has served Kelly Miller Smith Tower Apartments (KMST) a bountiful Thanksgiving dinner.

But it’s not just a regular meat and potatoes deal, the TLOD and the ‘Top Teens of Distinction America (TTOA) join forces with the adults to enhance the overall holiday service to the residents. The TTOD help provide joy and comfort by sharing their skills and talents on the program. This year’s theme was ‘Remembering you at Thanksgiving’ in conjunction with the motto ‘Participation is our foundation.’

They utilize aspects ranging from poetry and singing, playing a musical instrument, or simply sharing a kind word or a word of prayer.

“In this day and time where we often see young people running amuck or unsupervised, the TTOA are a refreshing breath of air. We are very grateful for the TLOD and the TTOD,” said one KMST resident.

As always, the meal was an all homemade feast to remember, including: turkey and corn bread dressing, vegetables, macaroni and cheese, fresh rolls, cranberry sauce, a variety of desserts and cold drinks. Whereas some of the residents have family or may be blessed to visit with family in Nashville or beyond, they all look forward to the TLOD/TTOA annual dinner.

Top Teens of Distinction America. (photo by D. Culp)
Top Teens of Distinction America. (photo by D. Culp)

In addition to the meal, there were sing-alongs, games and prizes. The beauty of the latter piece is that every resident in attendance received a gift. Some of the teens’ parents joined the party and the teens hailed from both middle and high schools throughout the city.

No detail went unnoticed, including some of the handmade crafts used to decorate the KMST dinner table adding to the environment. This year’s event included new members. Some of regulars included: Ms. Mary, the 2017 program coordinator; TLOD Nashville President Gracie Porter; state Rep. Brenda Gilmore; Ms. Candace; First Lady Carmelita; Ms. Eleanor Bright and others.

There was so much food! After everyone was fed, second helpings were allowed and some even took carryout plates from the event. One resident said: “It was truly good and if I don’t get another morsel this year, I’ll remember this dinner.” She also thanked TLOD for her ‘to go’ plate.

Kelly Miller Smith Tower Apartment residents couldn’t agree more that a good time was had by all. This annual pre-Thanksgiving feast remains one of the events that each side looks forward to sharing.

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