My year as Miss Buena Park has been full of firsts. I got my first article published in a community newspaper, rode in my first parade, read to a group of kindergarteners during “Read Across America,” and so much more.
My year as Miss Buena Park has been full of firsts. I got my first article published in a community newspaper, rode in my first parade, read to a group of kindergarteners during “Read Across America,” and so much more.
Recently, I experienced another “first” — my first “Taste of West Orange County & Tabletop Business Expo” last Thursday at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel. This event was organized by the West Orange County Chamber of Commerce and gave local businesses and organizations the chance to show the community what they were all about.
The first aspect of this event was the “taste” part. Attendees had the opportunity to sample food from a variety of local restaurants, including Dickey’s Barbeque Pit, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Ventana’s at the Holiday Inn. I sampled some food from some places I’ve never visited, and now, I have more options the next time hunger strikes.
The second aspect of this event was the “Tabletop Business Expo,” where local businesses, like Knott’s Berry Farm and Desert Rose Photography, set up a display and showcased what they had to offer. I came home with product samples, a caricature, and even a picture with Snoopy.
I also had the chance to see the organizations that give back to the community in action. Not only did I represent Buena Park’s chapter of Soroptimists International, I learned more about how community service organizations and Giving Children Hope contribute to the community.
As Miss Buena Park, I’ve had the opportunity to see my city from a new angle, and I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for the local government, businesses, and organization that make Buena Park the wonderful city that it is. Although my year of “firsts” as Miss Buena Park will soon come to an end, this definitely won’t be last time I attend the “Taste of West Orange County & Tabletop Business Expo.”
Disclaimer: Justine Banal is the reigning Miss Buena Park and was invited by the city to attend the event.
