92nd MSS hosts Christmas carnival for local orphanage

1997
Originally published by Fairchild Connection (Fairchild AFB, WA)

The time has come when the 92nd Mission Support Squadron takes time out every year to have fun with family and friends, and give kids some presents.

The 92nd MSS is holding its' eighth annual Holiday Carnival Thursday at the Deel Community Center Ballroom from 6 to 8 p.m. All squadron and wing members and their families are invited. In addition, the squadron is also inviting the Hutton Settlement Home children ages 12 and under.

Hutton Settlement Home is a children's home for youths ages four to 18. Formerly, it was an orphanage, but these days, the kids are taken in for disadvantaged or needy situations.

"Kids at the home look forward to this every year," said TSgt. Henry Pelella, chief, base training office at 92nd MSS. "To have the Air Force bring them on base to have a good time is an adventure to them."

For the fifth year in a row, Pelella is direecting the event. "We used to let the whole home come out, but now we keep it to the younger kids. We have some nice events for them to do."

Those activities include busing the kids out to Fairchild, providing free food and games to win play money, and a carnival booth set up so they can buy toys and prizes with their winnings. "It gives them an incentive," Pelella said.

Jerry Punstall, activity director at Hutton, said the home is very grateful for the holiday cheer the base provides for the kids.

"They really look forward to it," he said. "Base people really go out of their way to provide a lot to the children. They wouldn't enjoy the holidays nearly as much or get as many presents without the base's help."

Members of the squadron can sponsor a child by purchasing a gift from a list provided by the child or purchase something of their choice. Many personnel pair up with friends or co-workers to help make a child's dream come true, according to Pelella.

All dependent children of families of the wing or squadron are also welcomed to take part in the event, Pelella said.

Personnel or their families who would like to bake; provide cookies, cake or other holiday treats; be a part of the event by sponsoring a child; volunteer to set up and run game booths or clean-up may do so by signing up in the 92nd MSS orderly room or contacting Pelella at 247-8369. Volunteers are needed.