Stella students remember ‘Peanuts’ author

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, November 4, 2006

Jessica Miller and Kate Mieth, SNEP seventh-grade students, stand next to their tribute altar to Charles Schultz during El Dia de Los Muerto.

It was once said that “No one’s death comes to pass without making some impression.” Charles Schultz was one of those people who made a lasting impression on children and adults of all ages for 50 years. Students in Jill Williams’ Spanish class created an altar in remembrance of Schultz during “El Dia de Los Muertos,” or Day of the Dead. Altars like this serve as reminders of deceased loved ones or a special person in someone’s life.

These tribute altars are decorated with items the family believes are attractive to the souls of their departed loved ones. Such items include offerings of flowers and food, but also things that will remind the living of the departed (such as their photographs), and the things that the dead prized and enjoyed while they lived. This is done to entice the souls of the dead to actually return and take part in the remembrance. In addition, family members may visit the cemetery to spruce up the gravesite.

Two students in Williams’ class created an altar for Schultz that included his favorite foods, written works, his photograph, candles and Peanuts characters. “I’ve been reading Charles Schultz’s books and his Peanuts cartoon for years,” said Jessica Miller, SNEP seventh-grade student. “His work has always brought joy and laughter to me, and this altar represents my appreciation to him. I also learned a lot about the history and culture of this Mexican festivity.”

The Day of the Dead is an ancient festivity when Mexican families remember their dead and the continuity of life. It is a complex holiday characterized by the traditional Mexican blend of ancient aboriginal and introduced Christian features. Its celebration is varied by region and degree of urbanization, and is not a morbid occasion, but rather a festive time.