Over 350 Meals Served

The Maryland backstretch community celebrated Thanksgiving Nov. 28 with free meals throughout the day at Laurel Park.

The Paz family, who operates the kitchens on the backstretch and in the jocks room at Laurel Park, served more than 350 full turkey dinners from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., which was open for live racing. The meals included stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans and corn.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and Maryland Jockey Club shared in the cost of the meals. In addition, the MJC provided the kitchens with free pies that also were distributed to racing fans on Thanksgiving.

On Dec. 25, Christmas Day, the traditional free breakfasts will be offered at both kitchens courtesy of the MTHA and MJC.

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