Holiday Card Contest, tree lighting highlight holidays

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Angela Martin
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The holiday season is approaching Laughlin! What better way to kick off the season than by participating in the Holiday Card Contest or Tree Lighting Ceremony.

"Many of us are far from home and we want to have plenty of programs like this that bring with it an abundance of holiday cheer! People are going to know the holidays are here," said Chaplain (Maj.) Dwayne Keener, 47th Flying Training Wing chapel.

Starting Nov. 24, squadrons can gather supplies from the 47th Civil Engineering Squadron in Building 100. Each squadron will be provided with one piece of plywood, braces to set up the card, one white spot light and electricity for decorations. Squadrons are responsible for purchasing weather resistant paint, holiday decorations and lighting. Squadron name, point of contact and a phone number should be on the back side of the card.

Completed holiday cards are due no later than the morning of Dec. 10 at Building 100. If your card requires special handling, contact Glenn Purvis, 47th CES at 298-4145 to make arrangements. CE will place decorated cards on Laughlin Drive between Fifth and Sixth Streets with judging to take place the week of Dec 15.

Each card will be judged on squadron and holiday spirit. This event can be an excellent way to showcase squadron spirit and could give everyone an opportunity to celebrate the most magical time of the year!

Another great opportunity for celebrating the season is to attend the base tree lighting service, which will take place on Wednesday Dec. 1 at 5:30 p.m. outside the base chapel. Apple cider and hot cocoa will be served and carols will be sung. There will even be an appearance by Santa!

After the tree lighting service, Santa will lead everyone to Club XL where the festivities will continue. Club XL will be serving a holiday buffet featuring ham, rolls, and macaroni and cheese. After dinner, Santa will be waiting for children to tell him about their Christmas wishes and have their picture taken.

For more information or questions, contact Chaplain Keener at 298-5111 or Glenn Purvis at 298-4145. You may also contact Mike Easterly from Club XL at 298-5134.