Pancakes, with a side of team spirit

Charisma Blues dance team members Amalia Tenorio and Sienna Bunning outside the Masonic Lodge.
Jay Ann Cox | El Defensor Chieftain photos

Socorro showed up for the Charisma Blues, the high school dance team, last Saturday when the dancers partnered with the Masonic Lodge to serve up pancakes, ham and eggs, hash browns and of course, green chile and cheese.

Greeting breakfast guests are, seated from left, Deanna Chavez, head coach, and Stefanie Bunning, assistant coach; standing from left, Amalia Tenorio, Kayana Acosta, and Sienna Bunning.

About half of the guests chose the to-go option but all in all, nearly 100 meals were served by dancers Kayana Acosta, Sienna Bunning, and Amalia Tenorio. The five-person team also includes Marae Angel and Lyzz Mollenbrock.

The event raised about $1,000, which will go to expenses such as registration fees for the team’s competitions and camps—there’s a camp at University of New Mexico this summer. That money may also be used if the team needs new eqiupment and uniforms. During the year, the team performs at football and basketball games, and competes for regional and state titles.

“We are here to support the community,” said guest Joel Pickerill, who brought family and friends to the Masonic Lodge for a hearty breakfast.

Head coach Dianna Chavez said, “The girls have been pre-selling (tickets), and they have been here since 6:30 a.m. setting up. They are working hard.”

Last season, the team did well, receiving first place in hip-hop at one competition and third in 3A for the state championship.