Employers flexible for volunteers

By Emily Gula
Collegian Staff Writer

Without the help of local businesses, many of the almost 18,000 students involved in the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon might not have been able to volunteer.

"We like our employees to be able to volunteer for different charities," said Terri Sapanski, a manager at The Family Clothesline, 352-B E. College Ave.

The majority of students gave their employers advance notice of their involvement in Thon, which made rearranging schedules much easier. Some downtown businesses were flexible with work schedules so employees could take part in the event.

Justin Safier (junior-political science) said his employer, Peace a Pizza, 418 E. College Ave., was understanding of his involvement as a dancer this year.

"Normally, we have to find our own replacements, but because of Thon, they found someone for me," he said.

Early planning provided his boss sufficient time to prepare for the hectic Thon weekend.

More people were expected to be in the area due to Thon. Walt Breuninger, overall Thon public relations chair, estimated about 25,000 to 30,000 spectators passed through Rec Hall. The visitors included family and friends lending support to the dancers along with others who are simply curious about the event. Many downtown businesses anticipated increased numbers of customers throughout the weekend.

David Weaver, general manager of The Corner Room, 100 W. College Ave., said there are usually periodic bursts of customers throughout the weekend, especially after the fund-raiser ends on Sunday evening. However, Weaver said he has no problem with allowing employees to participate in Thon.

After dancing for 48 hours, many students also will require time to recover. Tom Matis, owner of Nittany Notes, 234 E. College Ave., is also aware of that need.

"It takes more preparations on their part to be ready to dance for 48 hours than for us to accommodate them — that's the easy part," Weaver said.