Second annual Hungry Hearts Café

Fatima Academy celebrated Valentine's Day by hosting the second annual Hungry Hearts CafÉ on Feb. 17. The people of the Cape Shore enjoyed a night of music and an all-you-can-eat buffet full of desserts for a minimal cost of $5 for an adult or $2 for child. Performances ranged from traditional Newfoundland music, Valentine Day jokes, dance routines, a rendition of a classic AC/DC song to today's most recent hits.

Music teacher Robert Colbourne coordinated the event. Proceeds will aid the school's music program and the upcoming Junior High Leadership conference.

"It was a huge success the first time," said Mr. Colbourne explaining why they wanted to do this again. "It's also popular with the people and a great opportunity to showcase the many talents of Fatima. It's a night out for the people of the Cape Shore! You get to fill your stomach with food and your heart with delight! And it's a chance to show the people of the Cape Shore the talent of the students."

He said there were some differences from last year, though.

"This year, there is more students performing as the music program has moved into the high school. One of the main differences is the fact that last year it was a project for the Enterprise class, however, this year it was not."

Mr Colbourne said without the support of the school community there would be no event. All food served was brought in by the students' parents and all of those who performed were K-12 students.

Preparations for the Hungry Hearts CafÉ began as soon as mid-term examinations were complete.

Sandi Careen, a Grade 12 student and a server at this years and last years Hungry Heart's CafÉ said there's a lot goes into it, but it is well worth it.

"There's a lot of work that has to go into the cafÉ. I was a student of the Enterprise class last year and preparing for the event was non-stop. But, I saw how much people enjoyed it, and that was the main reason I volunteered this year. It wouldn't be possible without Mr. Colbourne, his dedication and his hard work."

When asked what the importance of a showcase such as the Hungry Hearts CafÉ was, Mr. Colbourne said it is a self-esteem booster for the students.

"I also think that everyone should experience those butterflies on stage, and the self-satisfaction and the ultimate adrenaline rush that follows. It's an amazing feeling," said Mr. Colbourne.

Chelsie Porter, a newcomer to Fatima and one of Fatima's performers, said she really enjoyed the Hungry Hearts CafÉ.

"I never really experienced anything like it before and it was truly one of the most entertaining things that I attended this year. I cannot wait until the next concert!"

She said she enjoyed how much everyone was involved.

"I just loved how everyone was involved in the show, whether it was performing or behind the scenes. It wasn't just a certain group of people, it was everyone and that made the entire show that much more special!"

Mr. Colbourne has several plans for the future when it comes to music at the 'Home of The Royals.' The next is attending the Kiwanis Music Festival, followed by the annual Spring Concert in May. When asked if there were any plans regarding the continuation of the Hungry Hearts CafÉ, the music teacher laughed and replied, "Of course!"