Thanksgiving is more than an ordinary Thursday; it is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the great things in our lives. Thanksgiving celebrates what we are most thankful for every year through laughter, memories, family, friends, and delicious food.
In this week’s blog, Boardman Training Center (BTC) explores the history of Thanksgiving, our staff’s favorite foods and most cherished memories, and more. Continue reading to ignite the spirit of gratitude for the holiday that brings loved ones together year after year.
The History of Celebrating Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has a deep history that dates back centuries, specifically to November 1621, the first recorded Thanksgiving celebration. Pilgrims and Native American Indians gathered to celebrate America’s first successful corn harvest with a three-day feast. While today’s celebration focuses less on the harvest, the tradition of gathering with loved ones for a festive meal continues.
Over the years, Thanksgiving has become an important American tradition. It is now a lively holiday marked by the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, football games, turkey trots, and the start of Black Friday shopping. However, at its core, Thanksgiving remains a time for reflection and gratitude, spent enjoying delicious food and the company of family and friends.
The team at Boardman Training Center has plenty to be thankful for, from precious moments with loved ones to mouth-watering dishes. Read on to find out what the BTC team loves most about Thanksgiving!
The BTC Team’s Favorite Part of the Feast
“Sweet Potatoes or Deviled Eggs.” – Amber Petroff, Admissions Team Member
“Pumpkin Pie (With lots of whipped cream, of course).” – Elizabeth Teague, Adjunct Faculty Member
“I guess I don’t have a specific favorite dish because I LOVE the whole meal. Right down to the desserts.” – Sandy Poynter, Campus Director
“Stuffing.” – Allyson Kerr, Phlebotomy Instructor
“Pumpkin Pie, of course!” – Emma Cannon, Team Member
“Turkey with LOTS of gravy.” – Laura Durch, Academic Compliance and Support Associate/ Instructor
What is the BTC Team Most Thankful For?
“My husband and kids!” – Amber Petroff
“I’m thankful for my friends, family, and my pets. They are the reason I get up every day and do what I do.” – Elizabeth Teague
“I am most thankful for my family and friends. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. They all give the best support.” – Sandy Poynter
“All 3 of my kids, I am so beyond thankful for them.” – Allyson Kerr
“My kids, significant other, family, and friends. Without them, I would have nothing. Our loved ones give us purpose in life.” – Emma Cannon
“My husband because he is my rock and best friend in this crazy, crazy world.” – Laura Durch
The BTC Team’s Favorite Traditions
“Usually dinner at my parents but this year we are doing our first Friendsgiving and hope to do it every year now.” – Amber Petroff
“We don’t really have a Thanksgiving tradition, but on Small Shop Saturday, we go to Volant and usually a couple of other small shops. It’s a fun day with the family.” – Elizabeth Teague
“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition would have to be just having the whole family together at one time, listening to the stories and all the laughs. Then sitting down and watching some football.” – Sandy Poynter
“We go around the table and say one thing we are thankful for before we all start eating.” – Allyson Kerr
“I love getting together with my family and extended family and sharing Thanksgiving day together. We watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, watch the kiddos play, cook, eat our meal, and then have dessert and play games!” – Emma Cannon
“Getting together with family and just reconnecting with them.” – Laura Durch
Who Would The BTC Team Save A Seat At The Table For?
“My husband’s stepdad. I see the hurt in his eyes that he never got to say goodbye because he was accepting an award he got in Washington, DC. And so he could get to meet his grandbabies.” – Amber Petroff
“If I could, I would invite my grandfather. He died a while ago, but he was always the light of any holiday events.” – Elizabeth Teague
“With all my family and friends already at the gathering, I would have to say, someone that doesn’t have family nearby or can’t afford their own dinner.” – Sandy Poynter
“My Grandma, I would love her to be able to enjoy all of her great grandkids.” – Allyson Kerr
“My Dad, because I miss him so much. It would be so nice to spend one more day with him, ask him all the questions I want to, and hear his voice one more time. This was always one of the best days growing up. My family and extended family would all spend the day together, prepping and cooking and enjoying each other’s company. “ – Emma Cannon
“I would invite my mom, since she is deceased, I would love just to be near her again and see her smile.” – Laura Durch
Wishing You A Thanksgiving Filled With Gratitude
From the Boardman Training Center family, we’d like to wish each member of your family the happiest of holidays. We hope every moment is filled with laughter, memories, good food, and companionship. We encourage you to take a moment to recognize what you are thankful for while gathered around the table with your loved ones.
Boardman Training Center is beyond thankful to each student and graduate who has entrusted our school with their education. Your impact on our staff and faculty goes beyond what is learned in the classroom, and we genuinely appreciate you. Happy holidays from BTC!