Local restaurants transformed into a hub of community spirit during the week leading up to spring break as MILL Week Restaurant Nights officially kick off. This event invited students and families to support local businesses including, Pecina’s Mexican Cafe, The Big Easy, and Vacca Coffee House.

Vice principals, Natalie Haworth and Rebecca Middaugh oversaw the event, handling restaurant outreach and scheduling. Due to the commitment of the staff, the event proceeded efficiently and generated high levels of engagement.

“All MILL Week events are planned and executed by committee members,” Haworth said. “The restaurant giveback nights directly correlated with our fundraising efforts for MILL Week 2026, which benefits Compassionate Sharing.”

Junior Samuel Hoskins appreciated the restaurant give-back nights, as he enjoyed participating in celebrations and exploring new dining spots and dishes. The inviting atmosphere and the opportunity to spend time with friends was enjoyable.

“A reason I enjoyed MILL Week was because I got to try restaurants I had never tried,” Hoskins said. “The restaurants all felt very welcoming and friendly, so it made the overall experience enjoyable.”

Vice principal Rebecca Middaugh saw MILL Week as a way to raise funds and unite the community. The blend of local business support and compassionate sharing created an experience open to all.

“Our biggest goal with MILL. Week is to raise as much money as possible for our recipient,” Middaugh said. “These fundraising nights allow us to raise money while also having the added benefit of getting the community involved and supporting local businesses. We hope that we can continue to host fundraising nights for MILL Week.”