PHS students and staff continue traditions for holidays

by Tommy Verdon

Every year around this time families get together to celebrate the holidays together, whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas. Many families usually have their traditions that they celebrate around this time of year.

Junior Chase Stratton and his family their tradition on Christmas Eve. “We have always gone to my grandma’s,” said Chase. For as long as he can remember the family has been gathering at his grandma’s. “Ever since I can remember we have gone to my grandmas. We have probably gone there ever since I was young and maybe even before I was born,” explained Chase. This can be a good way to get to finally talk to your relatives that you maybe haven’t seen for months. “We do it to get the family together and exchange our gifts,” said Chase. Receiving gifts is always a plus, especially when you get them at no cost to you. “I like getting all the presents because it’s cool getting free gifts,” exclaimed Chase.

Senior Andrea Schadler also has her share of family traditions as she travels to her grandma’s house on Thanksgiving. This is the time when the family usually gathers around to talk to all of the missed loved ones, and is one part that she really loves. “Getting to see my family because I don’t see them that much,” is part of Andrea’s favorite moments. This family tradition has been going on for a long time. “Well, I’m 18, and they were doing it before I was born, so it has been a very long time,” explained Andrea.

The librarian here at PHS, Mrs. Marowelli, loves to see family during Thanksgiving. “We get together at my daughter’s house for Thanksgiving,” explained Mrs. Marowelli. Being with her family is a big part of the holidays for Mrs. Marowelli. “Having my family together is very nice,” she said. It has been a long time since this tradition has been broken. “We met with my family when I was a little girl, so we have continued the tradition,” explained Mrs. Marowelli.

Mrs. Barrett has a pretty interesting tradition that her family celebrates. “We pick a different country for Christmas, and we cook that certain country’s food,” explained Mrs. Barrett. This can lead to a trial-and-error process, but a learning one for all involved. “We experiment with different foods and introduce our kids to new foods,” said Mrs. Barrett.

Elementary student Rusty Kiplinger has a very unique tradition that he and his family celebrate on Christmas Eve. “I fight with my sisters over the Christmas presents,” explained Rusty. The best part about this fighting is all the presents that you can win. “I like getting all the presents from my sisters,” said Rusty. The tradition has continued strong for many years. “We have done this all my life,” replied Rusty.