WSC raises scholarship monies for Warren

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Lisa Meiman
  • 90th Space Wing Public Affairs
F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. --  The Warren Spouses Club is looking for more donations to their annual Dollars for Scholars basket auction March 2 in the Trail's End Club. 

The basket auction is the Warren Spouses Club's biggest function of the year, said Cindee Leonard, Family Services Director, 90th Mission Support Squadron. 

As of Jan. 31, the basket auction, themed "Under the Tuscan Moon," had 15 baskets. Last year there were more than 30 at the event. 

Baskets can be donated by groups, squadrons and individuals. Community organizations are also permitted to donate items. A variety of basket themes is important. 

"We're not turning any baskets away, but if we get three different Mexican baskets we might suggest putting a spin on your basket," said Mrs. Leonard, wife of Capt. Michael Leonard, 321st Missile Squadron. 

A notable basket from last year had an overnight stay at the Nagle-Warren mansion. Another basket had a selection of beers from around the world. 

The money raised from the event goes to the spouses' scholarship program for active-duty dependents associated with Warren who are continuing their education. 

"Last year we gave over $15,000 to our scholarship recipients," Mrs. Leonard said. 

"The scholarship program is a long-time tradition of spouses clubs across the military. It's one way of giving something back to our own military families who sacrifice so much," said Melody Carey, spouse of Col. Mike Carey, 90th Space Wing commander. 

The event has grown during the past three years. In 2004, the function raised about $700; in 2005, it raised about $1,500; and last year, it raised more than $5,000 for scholarships. 

The basket auction starts with a basket viewing and social hour at 5:30 p.m. March 2 in the ballroom at the Trail's End Club. The baskets will be on display along with silent auction items for participants to choose their favorites. 

"The best thing to do is walk around the room and decide which one to bid on," Mrs. Leonard said. 

Silent auction items are usually a single donated item. They are typically less expensive and instead of being auctioned live by an auctioneer, the bidding is done on paper in front of the item. It is not truly silent because participants know who is bidding and for how much, but it allows for a greater price range and variety. 

There is also a dessert auction that takes place after people are seated at their tables. Entire tables bid for a certain dessert. 

A live auctioneer will be present, and participants are given a bidder number complete with paddle to bid for items. 

The night is open to Airmen, spouses and community leaders with a reservation, and it costs $13 for individuals and $22 for couples. The dress code is similar to the wing holiday party; coat and tie for men and cocktail dress for women. 

A child-care service will be provided by volunteers that night at the Trail's End, and Master Sgt. Gary "Garyoke" Smith will be the DJ for the night.