'Stuffer' marks 70 years

MCDOWELL – The small Livingston County town of McDowell will come to life this Thursday (Jan. 11) during the 70th annual “Pancake and Sausage Stuffer” hosted by the McDowell United Methodist Church.

The all-you-can-eat event takes place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and costs $8.00 for those 12 and over, with carry-outs 50 cents extra. Depending on the weather, the event typically attracts 1100-1500 people.

“Last year, I got there at quarter to six and a guy walked right in behind me ready to eat,” recalls church member Freddie Immke.

Volunteers spend the week preparing for the large feat. This includes preparing the church and making meat.

“Tuesday, we do all of the butchering and make the sausage. We have to thank the Chenoa Locker – they help us out a lot,” adds Immke.

Those eating pancakes on Thursday may be surprised to see a newly remodeled basement. Immke jokes that some may even think they are in the wrong church.

“It looks nice,” he said.

Tickets are available through church members or at the door. McDowell is located southeast of Pontiac, east of the Weston Blacktop.