At Benito Juarez – We Give Thanks!
By: Jacklyn Escamilla Translated by: Kelly Fiddelke
Published: December 14, 2009
Thanksgiving Day is a time of happiness, thankfulness, and above all, friendship. On November 26, 2009, Benito Juarez High School hosted a Thanksgiving Day feast. Everyone from the Pilsen neighborhood was invited to join us for this wonderful event which was scheduled from 8:30 to 3.
Students, who volunteered their services for the event, began by decorating the cafeteria with colorful construction paper, tablecloths, and festive decorations. Mr. Kaminski, our football coach, teacher, and our leader for this event, called students to help prepare food in the kitchen, bring trays of food into the cafeteria, and help decorate the patio in the Thanksgiving spirit.
Everything was going great, especially with the assistance of security guard, Mr. Williams’ choice of music. That’s right – Christmas carols! Someone needs to come up with Thanksgiving music. After everyone was done with their tasks, they sat down for about a hour to talk about what they thought their families were doing at home.
It was 10:45 a.m. and we were instructed to line up on the opposite side of the table, put on gloves and a hair net. At 10:53, guests were filling up the lunchroom tables. Those behind the serving tables were given a try of food to serve (I got broccoli – yum!). By 11:15 a.m. the coordinator of the event welcomed everyone and spoke about the history of this event. Principal Ocon also advised us to be thankful for what we have. Then the feasting began.
“Would you like tortilla? Some turkey? A bit of vegetables? Pie? Cookies?” So much to choose from, but such a little plate, we made it work though. Plates flowed in front of us in quick succession; everyone had questions and suggestions.
The Juarez Aztec group took to the patio floor with their colorful costumes and incredible drumming. Everyone was amazed and entertained by the wonderful performance.
Out of all the events I have attended, never before have I seen such compassion and friendship from so many people. It was a great atmosphere and I felt proud to be part of Juarez High School.
I hope everyone who attended this event enjoyed the food and will consider coming again next year. Juarez opened up to the community and we met new people and made new friends. I have always believed that caring is not something one can just do, but rather one has to believe in their heart. Together, we can achieve great things, the impossible.
Thank you, Mr. Kaminski, for this great opportunity!
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