NORTHERN LAKES COLLEGE
NLC and Rotary Cook for the Community

Author: Aleisha Hendry

The kitchen was filled with laughter and mirth as turkeys were carved, stock was strained, and stuffing was stirred at the Northern Lights College (NLC) Dawson Creek campus on Dec. 4.

NLC and the Rotary Clubs of Dawson Creek partnered up once again for the return of the Community Dinner after being on hiatus for the last two years due to the pandemic.

The dinner serves upwards of 500 people in the community and is one of Rotary's most popular events. It's the chance for residents to come out and socialize while enjoying a full turkey dinner.

NLC provided 15 turkeys, several trays of stuffing, 150 litres of gravy, and 65 litres of gluten-free gravy for the dinner, which were prepped in the culinary arts kitchen by students, NLC staff, and Rotarians.

"We've been doing this for 21 years," said Chef Michael French as he oversaw the food prep. "NLC has a proud history of giving back to the community with these events and we're proud to be part of that and make it happen."

He said it's great for the students as they get experience in giving back to the community that they live and learn in. It also keeps the cooking consistent, which reduces the risk of undercooked poultry.

Fred Feddema, president elect of the Sunrise Rotary Club of Dawson Creek, said the partnership is a special one. Any opportunity for organizations to work together like this just benefits the community, he said (while expertly slicing up a turkey!). 

The gymnasium at Notre Dame School was packed that evening as community members enjoyed the festive meal.