Home  Articles Past Issues December 7th, 2004 |
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December 7th, 2004Articles |
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Pearl Harbor remembered 63 years later By Michelle Attia and Vanessa Gordon "Over the communication system we were called to go to our battle stations. My station was 400 feet from my bunk," Reyelts said. "When the ship turned on its side, I made my escape though a porthole and swam to another ship without any injuries. I think I'm lucky because I didn't take the time to put on clothes, undershorts, or shoes," said Reyelts, now 81-years-old and a resident of St. Augustine. The Japanese sent six aircraft carriers and more than 420 planes to attack Pearl Harbor. More than 2,000 Americans were killed in the attack that propelled the United States into World War II. Winston Churchill telephoned President Franklin Roosevelt to tell him that the Japanese had also attacked British colonies in Southeast Asia and that Britain would proclaim war the next day. Roosevelt responded that he would go before Congress the following day to ask for a declaration of war against Japan. "To have the United States at our side was to me the greatest joy," Churchill wrote.
Top of PageBy Michelle Attia Yahoo Internet Life named FCCJ as one of the top three "most-wired" community colleges in the nation. Due to ever-changing technologies, a school hoping to "keep up with the Jones'" of computer sciences must offer a variety of programs that are updated each term and implement the most recent training in the industry. FCCJ is certainly holding its own in this rat race. With many programs available in computer sciences -- ranging from 18-credit certificates to two-year degrees in fields such as database technologies, web development, multimedia, game programming and networking -- FCCJ offers a cutting-edge, quality education in the fastest growing career field of this decade. Why does FCCJ work so hard at improving its advanced technology programs? Because there are an abundance of jobs available in these fields including the military, government and large businesses, said John Trifiletti, PhD., instructional program manager CIS/OST at South campus. The emerging technologies in today's world include the development of the "Supernet" which is 700 times faster than the Internet, grocery stores developing shopping carts that immediately detect groceries placed inside and figure the final bill while costumers shop, and a $10 billion contract that the government gave to a company called Accenture to develop a virtual border around the United States which will help to make it more difficult for terrorists and illegal workers to enter America. Trifilletti said he does not have too much fear of students from FCCJ using the skills acquired in these programs for "evil". Although the programs teach students to prevent hacking, and in turn how to hack, no student or graduate of FCCJ at this time has been convicted of a computer crime. Training in the computer science field can give students the opportunity to earn salaries starting at $35,000 in the Jacksonville area and up to $70,000 nationally. FCCJ provides a hands-on, top-notch teaching program that is ever improving to teach the most current in technologies. In the summer of 2005 FCCJ is hosting a robot camp called "Build an intelligent robot-2005". This camp will be for gifted and high-achieving teens that will assemble and program their own robots, which they will be able to keep at the end of the camp. Top of PageBy Maria Connor Football players aren't the only ones in training for Super Bowl XXXIX. The Jacksonville & the Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau hired FCCJ to whip local hospitality workers into shape. Amy Dyar, business development manager with Open Campus, described the Waves of Welcome training program as "homegrown for the Super Bowl" but said it could be applied elsewhere. WAVES is an acronym for Warm Welcome, Actively Listen, Value the Customer, Extra Helpful, Show Pride in Your City. The curriculum consists of three modules: Customer Service Skills and Product Knowledge, Communication Skills, Dealing with Upset Customers. The target audience is employees of restaurants, hotels, catering businesses, and transportation. The first module, Customer Service Skills and Product Knowledge, is aimed at educating hospitality specialists on how to provide exceptional service to the multitude of tourists that will be arriving in Jacksonville for the big game. A secondary goal is familiarizing individuals with local features, attractions, and resources that may be of interests to visitors. The section on communications demonstrates the importance of verbal and non-verbal language, tone of voice, and body language. Dyar estimated that 300 individuals have gone through the hospitality training so far. Sessions are still open for anyone interested in attending. There is no fee for partners of the Convention and Visitors Bureau; cost for individuals is $17.50. For information, call the Jacksonville & the Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau at (904)798-9100. Waves of Welcome attendees are challenged on how well they know Jacksonville. See if you can answer these questions. 1.Name three professional sports teams that play in Jacksonville. Answers: 1) Jaguars, Suns, Barracudas 2) First Coast, because of its history as the site of the first European settlements in America 3) 2.5 miles 4) More than 65 5) High 67, Low 43 Top of PageBy Michelle Myers The new Walter McRae scholarship will provide financial aid for at least eight students in the automotive maintenance and light repair program. The scholarships, which total $100,000, will be paid in $25,000 increments each August for four consecutive years, officials said. The first payment was made last August. The scholarship comes from the Duval family of dealerships, part of the Scott McRae Group. The Walter McRae scholarship is one of the first donors to FCCJ's major gift campaign, college officials said. The Scott McRae Group is Jacksonville's largest family-owned automotive business. The company includes Duval Ford, Duval Honda and Duval Acura. FCCJ's automotive maintenance and light repair program is a certificate program. Once technicians are certified, they have the opportunity for a starting salary of $25,000 a year and there is potential to earn up to $80,000 a year. Students that are interested in either the McRae scholarship or FCCJ's automotive programs should call 904-633-8334. Top of Page
Top of PageBy Jessica Ray When University of North Florida student body President Jerry Watterson refused to sign a bill permitting PRIDE, an on-campus gay and lesbian group, to receive school funding because of his religious beliefs, the question was brought up about what place religion has in public schools. Students have the right to distribute religious literature. Officials can prevent students from passing material out, but not on the sole basis that it's religious material. This includes handing out flyers, tracts, Bibles, etc. Students have the right to pray on campus. Students may pray on campus, in groups or individually. They may meet before classes to pray before tests or to read the Bible. Students have the right to convey religious beliefs through class assignments. As long as students follow all of the directions set by the professor and complete the assignment, they cannot be discriminated against because of the religious content. Students have the right to wear religious clothing. Students are allowed to wear shirts, hats, etc, that have religious messages or graphics. Students have the right to form a religious club. As long as the club meets school guidelines for having an organization, the school cannot hinder the group from having the same benefits as other non-religious clubs. Students who are concerned about being unfairly discriminated against on campus because of religious beliefs should contact the campus dean of student success. Top of PageBy Maria Connor I am what they call a "mature student." It took me four kids, 15 years in the work force, and 4,000,000,000 lectures from my mother before I got serious about finishing my college education. I've spent three semesters in classrooms with students young enough to be my offspring and teachers old enough to be my peers. I have done time in Algebra, Humanities and Science. I'm six credits away from my A.A. And it is just now that I learned about the Portfolio Development for Prior Learning course; in other words, qualifying for college credits based on skills and knowledge gained through employment and life experiences. Had I jumped on this opportunity before enrolling in ENC1101 or HUM2020, I would have walked away with my associate's degree, or possibly even a master's. Why? Because I'm a mother. English. Repeatedly reminding your nine-year-old that there is no such word as "ain't" in the dictionary. Music Appreciation: The ability to tell the difference between Snoop Dogg, Wu-Tang Clan, Outkast, and Kanye West, as well as correctly spell their names. Literature. The ability to cull quality information and reading from magazines like Child, Family Fun, Better Homes and Gardens, and Woman's Day. Philosophy. The ability to explain to your to your children that yes, you truly love them even though they are grounded for a month. Top of PageBy Michelle Attia Those of you who read The Campus Voice on a regular basis are aware of our commitment to strive for factual accuracy. When we err, we correct those errors in an attempt to set the record straight. We are in good company with that policy since The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Florida Times-Union and many other reputable newspapers publish corrections and amplifications. While we detest factual errors, we own up to them. It is far more difficult to correct or admit to errors of judgment. Our last issue, dated Nov. 16, contained such an error. What was regarded as an attempt at Thanksgiving humor offended some of our readers. Top of PageBy Matthew Richardson In the month of December, some feel the cool breeze of winter and the warmth of holiday cheer. Decorations are spread throughout the city to give joy and to tell all that Christmas is near. Not only do these signs tell you of Christmas but they also give clues to the end of the term. From August to December, this term, for most people, has passed rather fast. Final exams are drawing near, early graduates are starting to say their goodbyes, but for many this term means getting ready for new classes. Registering for spring term classes started in early October and classes are filling up fast. Top of PageBy Samantha Mitchell Students who need advice, have problems getting adjusted to college life, or just need someone to talk to might find the Kent Campus student ambassadors helpful. The Kent Campus Student Ambassadors is a group of students whose intent is to make sure college life is made easier for their peers. Top of PageHIV/AIDS: Still a health crisis By Maria DeVera Approximately 885, 000 cases of HIV/AIDS are reported every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It has become the fifth leading major cause of death in the nation. December is HIV/AIDS Awareness Month and to generate attention, a booth and display was set up at FCCJ's South Campus on Dec. 1.
The project was coordinated by River Region Human Services, which is a community-based organization and nonprofit provider in Florida. The organization, which was started in the 1960s, works to provide prevention and treatment services in the community. Representatives from the group set up a table with brochures on topics such as what is HIV and how HIV is passed on, as well as issues like sexually transmitted disease and pregnant mothers dealing with HIV/AIDS. River Region Human Services is dedicated to giving all people education on the HIV virus. Their goal is to prevent people from getting the virus and to keep it from spreading. They also encourage everyone to get tested and to practice safe sex."We've been almost everywhere in the state, trying to reach kids from inside the classrooms to even those out in the streets," said Eric Boydston, an outreach worker. Boydston is also a peer advocate with another HIV/AIDS organization called the Franklin Arms which holds chat sessions and discussions. For more information, contact him at (904)387-0091. Top of PageAmbassador scholarship available By Vanessa Gordon Applications are being accepted for a student ambassador position at the Downtown Campus. This is a chance for students to earn a scholarship, as well as gain valuable experience. The talent grant covers tuition and books. The amount received is dependent upon the number of credit hours the student is enrolled in. The maximum covered is 36 credit hours (or one academic year). The ambassador must have at least nine credit hours in the fall and spring terms. For more information on the student ambassador program or to obtain an application, contact Cindy Brunelle at 633-8475. Top of PageI was looking through The Campus Voice when I came across this headline that caught my attention: Pregnant Woman Speaks Out! As I started to read it, I became very upset. I mean, if you're pregnant, power to you. But what does that have to do with the campus? And do you know how many parking spaces we would have to give up to take care of all the pregnant women? And do you know how many non-pregnant women will be taking those parking spaces? I mean, let's think about it here; if we were to have parking spaces for everyone that had special needs without the handicap parking, everyone would be parking waaaaay in the back. We pay parking tuition.... is that fair? If you have a problem getting a parking space, just get here early. The campus didn't tell you to get pregnant. Basically, what I am trying to say is that if you are pregnant, it doesn't mean that you are disabled, so it doesn't mean that you should be treated extra-special. Just be grateful for the people that are nice to you! Congratulations on your new baby! Top of PageDear Editor, Top of PageBy Maria Connor FCCJ staff and students will again have the opportunity to purchase computers at low costs on Dec. 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City Rescue Mission Thrift Store located at 5343 Normandy Blvd. For more information, contact Adam Crews (rmadmin1@bellsouth.net) at the City Rescue Mission or Ron Attaway (632-3227) or Gary Glisson (632-3359) at FCCJ. Top of PageBy Lisa McCombs Winter weather can make driving to school and work a very unpleasant event. Even though there's no snow in Florida's recent history, there are plenty of other conditions that can make driving in wintertime very scary. Here are a few tips from the pros to make your driving experience a little better at this time of year. Next, though it may sound a little odd, throwing on a pair of shades could be quite useful since winter's sun can be brighter than summer's. Last, if you do manage to get caught up in a skid, turn into it. This may be a little hard to get used to since natural reaction is to try and get out of it, but it breaks it up. Keep these tips in mind when you're out and about this holiday season so you can stay safe for all of those special celebrations. Top of Page
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| photo by Maria Connor North Campus: Entrance to “campus of choice.” |
"We offer our students a peaceful and serene environment," said Barbara A. Darby, campus president, gesturing to the scenic view outside her office window. Tables and benches are set up near a pond and among the trees; a nice place to study or take a break from class.
The North Campus has been a part of the Jacksonville community for 34 years. Darby said it was the first permanent campus with a physical structure. The facility employees 84 full-time faculty and more than 100 adjunct instructors who serve about 5,000 students.
"We call ourselves the "campus of choice," said Darby. "Students choose to attend because we work to be student centered, up-to-date on technology, and responsive to external and internal customers. We strive to be innovative and creative, market driven, and work as a team to carry out responsibilities."
North Campus offers a wide range of courses and curriculums such liberal arts, information technology, and business. Darby said the North Campus is proud to offer training "where an individual can deal with humans from birth to death." That includes childcare, healthcare, and funeral services, not to mention other services such as travel, dining, personal appearance, safety and career.
The college's health-related studies are based at North Campus. This includes nursing, dental hygiene, medical laboratory technology, pharmacy technician, massage therapy, emergency medical services, and funeral services.
The Cosmetology program offers three certification options to students, who can then go on to a career in hair, nail and skin care services. Students get hands-on experience by providing facials, manicures and pedicures, and hair styles (cut, color, perms, or relaxers) to the public for free or discounted prices.
The Institute of the South for Hospitality and Culinary Arts, located at North Campus, has provided training to those seeking a career in the restaurant or hospitality industry since 1991 and is one of only a few in the state. Students have the opportunity to intern at area hotels and restaurants, as well as The Mallard Room part of North Campus.
Many of the programs offered at North Campus serve not only the educational needs of students, but employment requirements within the community. One local hospital donated money to make sure FCCJ could recruit top-notch nursing instructors. This in turn provides qualified nurses to work in area hospitals and clinics. The funeral services and pharmacy technician programs were developed specifically because of a shortage of applicants in these areas.
North Campus is always looking towards the future, Darby said. She would like to expand offerings to help people already in the workforce to update or broaden their skills. New programs are in development to accomplish this goal. It should be noted that North Campus also offers athletic and recreational activities to its students. In addition to softball and baseball teams, entertainment, clubs, and festivals are fun options for individuals.
By Jessica Ray
"Society doesn't hesitate to honor athletes and we believe that those who excel academically should be acknowledged as well. Just don't call us nerds," said Marian Beaman, sponsor of FCCJ's English Honor Society called Delta Beta.
When Delta Beta was formed in 2000, it became Florida's first chapter of Sigma Kappa Delta. Starting with only 12 members, it has now grown to over 70 students. The society strives to recognize and reward those who demonstrate excellence in English literature and have high standards in all areas of academic work, as well as promote interest in culture and language among students.
The students involved are ready and willing to give their fellow members a hand with any writing assignments they may have. They also do volunteer work by helping out with book drives and doing one-on-one tutoring. The members of Delta Beta frequently meet to attend cultural activities, such as Shakespeare performances at Theatre Jacksonville, Much Ado About Books, symphonies, and informal movie nights. There are many opportunities for the inductees to enter writing competitions for scholarships in the areas of poetry, prose, personal essays, and other genres.
To join Delta Beta, students must currently be enrolled at FCCJ, have an overall G.P.A of at least 3.30, and have completed at least 12 hours of college credit. For more information contact the English Honor Society's student president, Steven Miller, at detin@docswd.com.
By Aura Faison
The challenge was to find the right rhyme, to take up enough time, to get a point across for the audience to comprehend the message in one's mind. Freestyle Friday, a rap contest, was held Nov. 12 at the Downtown Campus.
The event lasted about two hours, beginning at 7p.m. All contestants were FCCJ students from different campuses. Battle in the Bang'em 2004 was the contest's name and creativity of words was the game.
The 23 Music Collaborators (MC), or rappers, had a fun-filled night of ridiculing their opponents. Insults shot left and right as each student took full advantage of the microphone, attempting to concoct the best insult against their challenger in a rhyming form. "You're about to see a white on white crime" was the phrase that won the battle. Alan Watkins, a.k.a. "Robin Bankz", brought home the first place trophy and Evan Miniard, a.k.a. "Vendetta", was first runner-up. Watkins chose the phrase "white on white crime" to accentuate the oddity that he and his opponent, Miniard, were both Caucasian.
The audience of about 50 was literally jumping out of their chairs, cheering and booing each contestant as they either triumphed or stuttered.
Although onstage insults were flying, backstage was a completely different story. "…there was no animosity backstage…[guys were] giving hugs," said Miniard. Contestants were forced to think on the spot. During round one, two people went on stage. After being introduced, they were given a topic such as Chucky (the evil doll), Cadillacs, money, and women, and then allowed 30 seconds to rap.
Given the short amount of time contestants had to make up sensible rhymes, they were forced to resort to whatever they could see. "It just kind of came to me based on what my opponents were wearing," said Watkins.
The judges eliminated one person from each match during round one. Those left competed in round two, which involved rapping without a given topic. Those that the judges felt could do better, even though they had lost round one, were given wild cards which allowed them to compete in round two. The winner of Freestyle Friday received free recording time in a studio provided by All Pro Recording.
Dvus, producer/engineer from All Pro Recording Studio, went from Orlando to California, and now Jacksonville in search of new talent "The scene here is untapped, so much untouched talent…," said Dvus. Freestyle Friday promised opportunity and open doors to those who competed. The exact date for the next Freestyle Friday is yet to be announced, is hopeful rappers may have another chance to complete sometimes next semester.
For more information, contact Takeeia Williams at the Downtown Campus SGA at 633-8272.
By Lisa McCombs
With the holidays fast approaching, you may be worried about packing on a few extra pounds.
Don't worry -- some holiday foods are actually healthy.
Pumpkin pie is a great source of alpha-carotene that may significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer.
Four ounces of turkey provide 60 percent of your daily recommended value of selenium, a mineral that your thyroid and immune system need to function properly.
Sweet, mashed or roasted potatoes are great sources of vitamin B6, which is essential for the creation of protein and DNA.
Cranberry sauce, as many may know, reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and is loaded with antioxidants.
And any green vegetable, such as green beans or turnip greens, contains folate, a vitamin that is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system.
So while you may gain a few little pounds this season, think about all the good stuff you're also bringing in!
South Campus car break-ins;
fingerprints found on damaged cars
By Jardyn Lake
Several FCCJ South Campus students have been victims of car break-ins and attempted car thefts within the month of October. Many of the vehicles have had stereo equipment stolen as well as interior and exterior damage. South Campus security has contacted the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office regarding the break-ins around campus. The campus security and JSO have produced reports on the break-ins.
Fingerprints have been taken to narrow in on the suspects. Captain Eric Davidson, FCCJ South Campus security officer, has increased the surveillance during the evening and hours of darkness to reduce possible break-ins.
Campus security suspects the recent incidents to be the work of a small group of individuals from the surrounding neighborhoods. The break-ins have happened primarily in the east parking lot of South Campus. "We need people to take personal responsibility for their possessions," Davidson said. Davidson said that break-ins always go up during the holiday season. "Secure [your] valuable items in the trunk and be aware of your surroundings," Davidson said. The maintenance department is also installing more lights in the parking lots around the campus. Campus security wants the students and teachers of South Campus to know of the recent break-ins in order to be more cautious. "Make sure to lock and secure [your] property," Davidson said.
Cool People: This time Becky Colangelo
By Aura Faison Ever reach for the stars and fall short? Ever put plans on hold to fulfill life's other callings? Anyone who has a little heart and soul does. Becky Colangelo is an art history teacher at FCCJ. She has been teaching at South campus since 2002 with what some would say is a stroke of luck. Around 1973 Colangelo taught art history in a Memphis Tennessee University while she was pursuing a bachelor's in fine arts education and painting. About five years into her career, while finishing up her painting degree, she had her first child. Two years later when she received her Bachelor's in Fine arts Education, and decided that it was time to settle down. Colangelo then had three children, became a stay at home mom, and loved every minute of it. Colangelo participated in several art shows in New Jersey, trading and selling her work with other artists, but from about 1980-87 she put painting aside in order to meet her children's needs. The only teaching Colangelo had done in the past 22 years was at the Beaches Art Center art gallery in 1999 where she taught painting and drawing. But, Colangelo remembered her daughter talking kindly about a high school art teacher named Mr. Darty, so she decided to take a chance and see if he could point her in the right direction. |
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Darty referred her to FCCJ. So, Colangelo went in for an interview and found that the administration was desperate for an Art History teacher, which was exactly what Colangelo was looking for. "Art History is not like humanities…you've got to have a [specific] degree to teach it," said Colangelo. The art history course being taught was exactly the same as the course Colangelo taught back in the seventies. Colangelo was quickly hired, "I had to review, get a copy of the book…I hadn't even applied or sent transcripts…they were relying on my word alone." Now that Colangelo landed her dream job things slowly began piecing themselves together, "When you let go of your own little personal plans you realize that there are lots of other possibilities." Colangelo's style is mostly nature pieces of "Domestic, manicured…mowed grass instead of wild." Colangelo says she craves organization in her art and appreciates the creative human touch with natural beauty. "I see kinds of metaphors in the landscape. An open bush here a closed bush here, volume next to voids, balancing lights and darks, and balancing opposites." Colangelo relates to the balancing in her art as in the balancing in every day life, "…what you need to do for your children, your job, which household chores, it's good to put it down on canvas, so I can see it." Through Colangelo's ups and downs she has managed to make enough wise life decisions that largely contribute to her new found happiness, "It's not looking somewhere else for your own happiness, it's right in your backyard." |
What is your favorite holiday tradition?
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Downtown :Alicia Oehl, 26, Priscilli Figueroa, 27, and Rebeca Garcia, 36. "Eating with family, all new clothes for all the people in the family” [Alicia from Venezuela]. “Everyone gets together and has a BBQ, all of the family, and we celebrate, open presents on the 24, the night before” [Priscilli from Chile]. “Family gets together to eat and dance” [Rebeca from Cuba]. photo by Aura Faison |
Downtown : Antoine Funchess, 21, "Get up, open one or two presents in the morning, mom makes a big breakfast-pancakes, grits, eggs…- go to church, come home, open more gifts, and have fun." photo by Aura Faison |
By Meggie Dunivent
Members of the new Anime Club at South Campus have been meeting to share their appreciation of Anime by watching animation series, playing video games such as Dance Dance Revolution, and by working on fund-raising activities.
Anime is a Japanese form of animation, which comes from comic book art called Mongo, and is characterized by its unique drawing style. Another feature that sets Anime apart from other animation is that most characters grow up through out a series, Stefanie Shall, club president, said. The club's goal is to raise $300, which will pay for gas, food, and tickets for 25 members to go to a comic and anime convention in Orlando in Feb. 2005, Shall said.
"One of the biggest parts of going to a Con [Anime Convention] is that most wear home-made costumes of their favorite Anime character," said Mark Bowen, a member of the club. The club has already raised $85 for the trip from a silent auction at their second meeting, Shall said.
The club is also holding a members-only mascot drawing contest; the winner's illustration will be used on tee shirts, buttons, and pens that the club will sell to students to raise additional money for the trip.
The members are planning a Japanese festival that will have games and activities to raise additional funds. Now that the club is up and running, the members are trying to set up discounts at local comic book stores. "Starting a new club through Student Activities is actually pretty easy," Shall said. To start a new social club, there must be seven original members and the subject matter of the club has to be approved through Student Activities. The club must also have a part-time member that is employed by the college to use "smart" classrooms and to have group activities off school grounds.
The club also has its own forum where members get club news, talk outside of the meetings, and vote on what game or series they want to watch at future meetings, Shall said.
The Anime club meets every other Tuesday in the cafeteria at South Campus from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Contact Stefanie Shall at fccjanimeclub@hotmail.com for additional information.
By Maria Connor
Full hearts, full hands, and a full coffer for a local food bank were the end results of the 20th Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon held on Nov. 16 at the Radisson Riverwalk Hotel in downtown Jacksonville.
According to Amanda Holmes, special projects manager at Lutheran Social Services Second Harvest Food Bank, over 700 people attended the event and upwards of $25,000 was raised. Participants paid an admission fee which entitled them to a meal of soup, bread, fruit and a cookie, as well as a ceramic bowl crafted and donated by local students and artists.
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| photo by Maria Connor Downtown: Amy Canipelli shows off ceramic bowls. |
The reason for the purposely less-than-satisfying lunch is to remind the community that many local people face hunger on a daily basis. The bowls serve as a tangible symbol of this need. Some 2,000 bowls were created by kids from 35 area schools as well as professional artists. Stephen Heywood, an art instructor at South Campus, estimated that FCCJ contributed more than 120 bowls for the fundraiser.
Amy Canipelli, 21, is a ceramics student at FCCJ. She said that Heywood was very enthusiastic about the project. "Every day he would ask how many bowls everyone had," Canipelli said. "He was really into it and got the students excited about it." Canipelli said the Empty Bowls initiative is a great opportunity for young people to learn about philanthropy. "They can get involved even if they can't donate money."
Local corporations and individuals lent their support to make the luncheon a success. Paige Kelton and John O'Connor of FOX 30 and CBS 47 welcomed attendees at the start of the program. Music was provided by the LaVilla String Orchestra, the R.L. Brown Elementary School Chorus, and the First Coast High School Chamber Singers. Celebrity servers included radio and TV personalities and community leaders. Second Harvest Food Bank serves 17 counties in northeastern Florida. In 2003, they served 3.9 million snacks and meals, provided emergency food to 30,000 local residents, and handled 4.6 million pounds of food and grocery products.
The original Empty Bowls program was started in 1990 by a Michigan artist as a creative way to fight hunger. Heywood had this to say about participating: "As students, artists and citizens, we recognize the importance of giving service to the community and are honored to be able to use our artwork as the means whereby we render that service."
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photo by Lori Terpak |
