There's no need to cook next Friday night.

Instead, stop by the Dawson County Senior Center on Oct. 14 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. for a southern supper of smoked ham, pinto beans with cornbread and onions, slaw, iced tea and homemade fried fruit pies - all for just $5 a plate.

Dine in or carryout is available. Proceeds will benefit the center's elevator fund.

"We are in so much need for an elevator here," said Senior Center Director Margie Weaver.

Currently, the two-story facility on Recreation Road has no elevator.

Without an elevator, seniors visiting the center who cannot walk up and down the stairs have to be driven to participate in activities on the lower floor, Weaver said.

Through various fundraisers, nearly $40,000 has been collected to fund the project, but another $20,000 is still needed.

More fundraisers, including the annual pheasant shoot in November, are planned to help the center reach its goal.

For more information, call (706) 344-3700.