By Matt V.
All Sunday Morning Talbot House was in the middle school preparing for their much anticipated formal dinner. Everyone in the family was involved with putting the event together. Kids were either cooking the food or decorating the lower level where the dinner took place.
Jan Cheripko and Dawne Possemato, Talbot House’s Family leaders, picked an Italian theme for the event. The meal had four courses which consisted of antipasta, wedding soup, brajole with sausages and meatballs on pasta for the main course, and cupcakes with cannoli for desert.
The lower level of the middle school was decorated with the colors of the Italian flag and a slideshow of Italian art was projected on a sheet. “It was a good experience to spend time with friends and eat good food,” said Pat C, a guest at the meal.
A week and a half before the meal, Jan Cheripko’s wife, Val, came to Talbot House and gave the family a lesson on table etiquette. The family learned how to set the tables properly, how to use utensils, and most importantly how to eat respectfully.
“After much reluctance, I gave up my old eating habits in lieu of new,” said Kate D, a member of Talbot house.
During the meal, Zack N, from Betton House supplied us with live music on his violin. When Zach N. wasn’t performing, traditional Italian music was played from a stereo in the corner of the room. “It was incredible, it was like heaven,” said Yves K, a member of Talbot House.
“It was extravagant, amazing, and heaven-like to say the least,” said Pat M. Talbot House was excited for the meal. It was not only enjoyable but also served as a learning experience. It put the family in a formal setting giving them a taste of how to act in likely future situations.
