GRAND CHUTE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Many businesses closed up shop for Christmas. But “home for the holidays” isn’t always a guarantee for everyone.
If you’re a first responder, you know the world doesn’t stop just because it’s a holiday.
“We hope we’re not busy, and people are enjoying their day off with their families but, if something arises, you know, somebody’s gotta respond,” said Neenah-Menasha firefighter Tyler Hillen.
Christmas is typically a time when families and friends come together.
And, while police officers, fire departments and many others are working to keep us safe this holiday, Hillen tells FOX 11 he and his crew are making the best of it at their home away from home.
“We have a meal going on upstairs – eggs with a big breakfast, we’re doing ham for dinner, and we’re spending it with our family here tonight, so it’s okay.”
And members of public safety aren’t the only ones punching in for Christmas
Some families like to leave the holiday cooking up to local restaurants. And that means someone’s still gotta do the cooking and the serving.
Waitresses at the International House of Pancakes in Grand Chute, like Kyanna Davidson and Libby Ebben, don’t mind the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest days of the year for the food industry, though.
“I absolutely love people!” Davidson said. “I love seeing people, meeting people and hearing what they have to do for the holidays. That’s what I love about it.”
Ebben said her favorite part about working the holiday is also seeing some new faces.
“Definitely talking to everyone about their Christmas plans, everyone’s pretty happy today, so it’s pretty easy.”
The holiday foot traffic doesn’t end at restaurants.
With about 100 of their 130 rooms filled, the staff at Comfort Suites Appleton said they’re ready to do their part in spreading some holiday hospitality.
“Part of the best thing about working in the hospitality industry is being able to help other people in odd times,” front desk associate at Comfort Suites Appleton Chad Kennow said.
“Being able to provide that service is really kind of a nice thing and, actually, it’s a roundabout way to do something charitable on the holidays.”
People also liked heading out to watch a movie on Christmas Day.
Officials at Marcus Theatres said there was a line of guests out the door at one their locations in Appleton Tuesday afternoon.
