As Thanksgiving draws near, people tend to reflect on the blessings in their lives. One way to show appreciation is to share time and resources with those in need. It so happens a number of entertaining opportunities to "pay it forward" are available this month.
The Festival of Trees to benefit Community Hospice Care is 7:30 p.m. Friday at Elizabeth Schaefer Apartments on the St. Francis Campus. A variety of items from decorated wreaths and trees to camping equipment, chocolates and gift packages are to be offered to the highest bidders. Tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple. To reserve a seat, call (419) 447-4040 or stop at the office, 181 E. Perry St., Tiffin.
The annual "Support the Troops" fundraiser is Nov. 24 at Tiffin Eagles. Partake in food, raffles and live music by local bands The Late Show, Reverse Side and Rusty Vinyl.
A Support the Troops account at Tiffin Charitable Foundation is to handle proceeds from this event. Donations are tax-deductible.
One of the founders, Tony Paulus, said the money is meant to help troops and their families for emergencies, such as medical care, travel expenses or help with bills, clothing and other needs. There is no admission charge, but those attending are asked to make donations the night of the show.
Thee Lost Souls will have another reunion concert for The Marisa Paulus/Casey Elchert Foundation Benefit. (See story).
Get an early start Thanksgiving Day by walking, running or biking in a Turkey Trot at 8 a.m. at Hedges-Boyer Park. No entry fee is required, but participants are asked to make contributions to the Salvation Army.
To take part, show up and bring a contribution. For more information, call Vanessa at (419) 448-8444 or Sara at (419) 447-8579.
Court Appointed Special Advocates of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot counties is to plan "Connecting with Kids" at 5 p.m. Nov. 30 at Tiffin Eagles Club.
A Sandusky County United Way agency, the C.A.S.A. program recruits and trains volunteers to serve in the court system as guardian ad litems for neglected and/or abused children. Volunteers have been serving C.A.S.A. in Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot counties for 20 years.
The "Connecting with Kids" fundraiser features a hat raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, organizations and individuals, a pasta buffet and a 50/50 drawing. Donated items may be viewed on Facebook and donations still are being accepted. Michael Strong, executive director of The Ritz Theatre, is to serve as "MC" for the evening.
Advance tickets are $10 per adult and $3 per child. Tickets at the door are to be $12 per adult and $3 per child. To donate an item or purchase tickets, contact the Tiffin office at (419) 448-1442. Tickets may be purchased by calling any of the C.A.S.A. Offices: Tiffin (Seneca County) at (419)448-1442; Fremont (Sandusky County) at (419) 355-1442 and Upper Sandusky (Wyandot County) at (419) 209-1442.


