Students to aid at shelter meal
by Laura Vatalaro, se news editor

     SE students will demonstrate their community spirit when they meet, serve and entertain residents of the Arlington Night Shelter.

     The students will participate in the fifth annual Holiday Feast and Fellowship dinner, sponsored by the sociology department, the dietetic and hospitality department and student services. The dinner is scheduled Thursday, Nov. 30, from 7-9 p.m. in the SE ballroom.

     “This is an event where we can put our differences aside and come together for an evening of sharing and hope,” Terri Schrantz, assistant professor of sociology and sponsor of the dinner, said.

     “It is also a great opportunity for students to learn the importance of community service. Many students have said that this event has changed their outlook on life,” the SE professor said. The dietetic and hospitality students will prepare the meal as part of their course work.

     These students, along with instructor Meg Morovic, also solicit many of the donations for the event, according to Schrantz.

     Sociology students and other student organizations, such as the student ambassadors, will wait tables and sit at tables with guests from the night shelter.

     Schrantz said these volunteers have been invaluable in the past in making this event such a success. Plus, the event spotlights the students’ willingness to help their communities by volunteering their time.

     Jerry Coats, assistant professor of English, and Violet O’Valle, humanities division chair, will dress up as Mr. and Mrs. Santa to entertain the children.

     Students will also dress up in Christmas attire, such as elves and reindeer, and sing Christmas carols and hand out presents.

     Gifts will be handed out to all the children affiliated with the night shelter who attend.

     In addition, all children at the dinner can have their pictures made with Santa Claus.

     Other entertainment will be planned by Marion Nesvadba, assistant professor of music.

     TCC students who would like to get involved with the night shelter dinner can sign up through the SE student services office at 817-515-3595.

     Donations for the dinner will be accepted through Wednesday, Nov. 29. All items will be accepted and put to use, but plastic cups, toiletries, stuffed animals, books, mittens, hats and scarves are all especially needed items, according to Schrantz.

     For more information on this event, call Schrantz at 817-515-3709.