Jack Wax Dinner returns

WARRENSBURG | The annual Jack Wax Dinner is rapidly approaching on Saturday, April 4, and 2026 will not only mark 65 years for the beloved tradition, but also introduce a positive change for the American Cancer Society fundraiser. Jack Wax has outgrown its traditional location of the Thurman Town Hall, and this year will be held at the popular Lodge on Echo Lake. "We are moving the event this year so we can feed more people and raise more money," revealed Robin Mahler, event chair. "We are always pleasantly surprised- shocked- at how much this brings in. Many people return to enjoy this event year after year." According to Mahler, the Jack Wax Dinner traces its beginnings back to Jean Reynolds, who created the benefit for local Thurman families in need. However, when Reynolds herself was diagnosed with cancer, the event changed to benefit the American Cancer Society, a cause equally as noble. And with the change in venue, the committee is hopeful more residents and visitors will opt to attend and enjoy an evening of generosity, home cooking, and neighborly connection. "The town hall was nice and familiar, and we have had some grumbling about moving to a new location," Mahler admitted. But the town hall capped out at 80 heads, she said, compared to the Lodge on Echo Lake able to easily accommodate double that amount and more. The Lodge is also handicap accessible with more parking, more foot and elbow room, more buffet tables, and a dance floor. "It is a great community gathering," Mahler said. "We have tons of baskets to raffle off (56 raffle items, to be exact), and great local food." From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., guests will indulge in hearty Adirondack cuisine created thanks to donations from Oscar's Smokehouse, Gallop Farms and their pulled pork and famous pickles, the Old Log Inn, Tommy Guns Pizzeria, Band Stand Brew Works, and even Subway is providing their soft, moist cookies. The Warren County Ramblers will once again regale their audience with their spirited live music. "This year will be a good time all around; we won't be crammed in the town hall," she noted. "People can stay longer and relax and really enjoy the event." There will be an assortment of maple desserts, with the confection for which the event is named being the star of the show. Traditionally, a Jack Wax is made by packing snow until it is hard, heating maple syrup to a 234 degrees Fahrenheit, then rolling with a popsicle stick until the concoction turns into taffy or hard candy. The snowcone maker with its crushed ice will accomplish the same task at the event, delighting maple enthusiasts of all ages with the old-fashioned treat. Tickets are available the day of the event at the door (cash only), and will include the all-you-can-eat buffet in addition to the sweet maple delicacies. Adults are $15, children six to 12 are $8, and children five and under are free. "We are open to new volunteers if anyone would like to help, you don't have to be a Thurman resident," Mahler said, expressing thanks to her curtain fellow-volunteers Barb Turner, Tina Combs, Eileen Gilbert, Louann Eldridge, and Courtney Turner. For more information on the Jack Wax Dinner, or to inquire about volunteering, please call Mahler at 518-683-1508.

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Jack Wax Dinner returns

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