DOWNEY - Exotic petting zoos, pony rides, giant moon bounces, live music and mountains of food and drink defined Downey High School's 12th annual Family Fun Night, held May 20.After much planning, Downey's Associated Student Body and activities director Gordon Weisenburger constructed the traditional event and united the community once more. "ASB picks the vendors and activities that we feel will be most beneficial in profit for our clubs and organizations," said senior Liz Calvillo, ASB president. "Profits are split with many clubs and sports. Most organizations on campus run a booth or two and that's where they get their profit." The many clubs, sports and programs on campus provided food and entertainment for the attendees. Junior State of America sold churros as their food (and sold out within a couple hours); Downey Football Booster sold Downey football paraphernalia; and Downey's award winning dance team and the Regional Occupations Program Dance Ensemble cooperated with off-campus dancers to perform for spectators. A mariachi band played while people danced along to the music. For the younger age group of the community, there were moon bounces with animalistic designs or shapes and inflatable slides, a trackless train to take passengers on a tour around the campus, and an exotic petting zoo with goats, llamas, and ponies, and hay to feed the animals with. Children also had the opportunity to participate in a pony ride. This year anticipated a change in location due to the massive construction Downey's cafeteria undergoes right now, but that did little to spoil the fun. Downey resembled a mini-carnival, but provided the safety and unity that a community function creates. With almost every student attending in some way, whether by participation or just to hang out with friends, and many of Downey's families coming together as well, the community grows stronger. "Whenever we have an event where the community can come together, it's always a good thing," said Calvillo. "One of the greatest aspects of Downey High is its diversity and you definitely get a taste of it at Family Fun Night. It's just a fun night and way to get out and enjoy a night out with family and friends."

********** Published: June 4, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 7