“It’s only gotten bigger and better,” said Helen Santoro of the annual St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, a 15-year tradition in Bedford. Santoro was one of the senior citizens who arrived by the busload Wednesday afternoon to enjoy a traditional Irish feast of corned beef and cabbage, potatoes and carrots and Irish soda bread.

The hearty meal was provided—for the second year in a row—by Doug Crosset, owner of Oliver’s in Katonah. “These are the people who built our country,” he said, explaining why he donated the food. “It’s just the right thing to do.”

About 100 pounds of corned beef plus all the trimmings were served by volunteers to 120 seniors, the largest group the town has ever hosted, according to Jim Whiting, Bedford recreation supervisor.

“It’s a great tradition that just grows every year,” he said. “It gives people a chance to catch up, and have a delicious free meal.”

Santoro agreed. “It’s wonderful to get together and it puts us all in a good mood,” she said, while her tablemates nodded in agreement.

The recreation and parks department coordinates an active program for seniors. Planned by Angela Brown, Jim Whiting and Pam Veith, year-round activities include shopping, exercise, weekly meetings and special seasonal programs like the holiday lunch. Bedford senior bus driver Frank Costa provides transportation to those who need it, said Whiting. The next outing planned is to Foxwoods Casino in Connecticut.