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Even though she’s been gone for 32 years, state Rep. Vernon Smith’s mother still guides his spirit during the holidays.

On Friday, Smith and a group of volunteers prepared the New Hope Church to welcome more than 100 hungry guests for the annual Harvest Feast, a free Thanksgiving meal and short church service.

Performers included the West Side Theatre Guild Repertoire Dance Co., the West Side Drama Club, Wings of Harmony and praise singers Nathan Mason and Stephan Henderson.

Reservations weren’t required so Smith estimated the guests based on past years, but he also wondered if attendance might increase because of the sagging economy and higher grocery costs.

“A head of lettuce was $3.49,” said Smith, who buys much of the food. “I’m gratefu

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