By Karen Gavis/se news editor

SE Campus volunteers served up meals and holiday cheer to residents of Arlington Life Shelter Nov. 29 in the North Ballroom.

About 65 people attended the dinner where guests were entertained with live music and dance. For the evening, the ballroom resembled a fine dining establishment, transformed into a magical place where Frosty mingled and Santa’s reindeer played.

Culinary student Kianna Porter brought her son, daughter, two nieces and a nephew to volunteer for the event.

“I came here with a five-pack,” she said. “They handed out food and drinks and served plates and everything.”

SE’s culinary department prepared the food that was served.

“Even the rolls were made from scratch,” Porter said.

Culinary instructor Sherry Sipho said the menu this year included turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, corn casserole, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, a Swiss/broccoli/rice/pasta dish and assorted cookies and muffins. Beverages provided were iced tea, apple cider, pink lemonade and coffee. 

SE student Karen Chatham and her daughter helped serve guests. Chatham said it is great to help those who might not have a nice, hot meal and to experience the gift of sharing.

“I love it. I do it every year,” she said. “I think it provides some holiday cheer.”

Amid festive decorations, the Metro Orchestra performed live music. Later, the group 4 Proximity rocked on electric guitars and the drums. Rhapsody Movement Company, SE student dance group, performed as well, and Dr. Allan Saxe, UTA professor, was proclaimed Head Elf by student development services vice president Rusty Fox.

Children were read a story by Mrs. Claus, and merry old Santa arrived in time to deliver gifts during the festivities.

Scrooge was nowhere to be seen.