As we’re all searching the BJC for the best eats, and scrambling to beat the long food lines during THON’s busiest moments, it’s easy to forget about those who feed us all weekend long. Although many vendors are manned by their own employees, there are a handful of concessions stands operated by our very own committee members.

During our time visiting the concessions stand outside Portal 21, we stumbled across a Finance committee, doing its part to contribute to THON even when it wasn’t directly handling the donations.

Alex, a member of the committee, explained that he and his fellow members were only working concessions for one shift, sharing the responsibility with another Communications committee. “We just work one shift and then switch off,” he said. After only a four-minute training session, learning how to work the cash registers and where all the supplies are located in the kitchen, they fell easily into the swing of things.

For being thrown into the thick of it, the atmosphere behind the counter was relaxed and easy-going. Although they’re responsible for a good variety of food, the definitive favorite is the classic hot dog. Why? “Because it’s the easiest one to make!” was the response, accompanied with laughter.

As for the least favorite? “Walking tacos,” they replied. “Please, no more walking tacos.” After taking a moment to think, they reconsidered — “Actually, we won’t be here that much longer, so it’ll only affect the crew after us… More tacos! Order like seven tacos per person!”

Certainly, working in a concessions stand — particularly during the dauntingly busy Pep Rally or Final Four hours — has its downsides. But the committees, pumped up on the energy and excitement of THON, don’t miss a beat, and bring even more smiles to the BJC.

Photos: Jack Lukow