Spouses Dining-In 2010

  • Published
  • By By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Coleman
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  More than 80 Air Force spouses came together Feb. 27 for Eielson's ninth annual Spouses' Dining-In at the Yukon Club.

Featuring some inspired costumes, a contest for most creative table decorations, skits, and a novel take on the traditional grog bowl, the dining-in gave officer and enlisted spouses an opportunity to experience an Air Force tradition while at the same time making it their own.

According to Beth Durbin, the president of the Spouses Dining-In, the goal was to build camaraderie among the spouses and have a good time. She said that it's been a tradition for the spouses to get together the last weekend in February.

"It's the one of the few spouses dining-in's Air Force wide and it's a lot of work but it's worth it," said Mrs. Durbin. "I like to see what everybody does - they're so creative."

The theme of the evening, chosen by this year's board members, was "80's television shows," sparking creativity and requiring some out-of-the box thinking.

Different groups included Family Ties, The Dukes of Hazzard, The Golden Girls, China Beach, The Facts of Life, Rainbow Brite, The Love Boat, and Designing Women.

Misty Arpasi and her group of spouses came dressed as Family Ties, their table decorated with pictures of their families. While they did not take top honors in the competition, she said the chance to come together in a relaxed, fun setting with other spouses was the real reward.

"To me, we are one big family and it's nice to have something sociable to attend," said Mrs. Arpasi. "It's a chance to get to know other spouses in other squadrons especially if you're new to the base."

While Air Force spouses are forced to adjust their lives and daily routines to fit the military members' obligations, this evening was focused squarely on the spouses. The rules of the mess even cautioned participants against shoptalk with the warning, "Thou shall not open the hangar doors."

Planning for the dining-in began in August as a team of senior leadership spouses began meeting to put the event together. According to Mrs. Arpasi, the planning effort was a great team building experience where nobody took themselves too seriously.

"The Dining-In allowed spouses to cut loose while strengthening camaraderie among spouses, both within squadrons as well as between different units," said Mrs. Arpasi. "It was great to see all the spouses supporting each other in friendly competition as well as seeing their creative sides come through."

"Everyone had a blast," said Mrs. Durbin. "They enjoyed getting together with their friends and decorating and dressing up in their characters."

The winners of the competitions were:
Audience Choice- Facts of Life
Best Poster - Love Boat
Best Skit - Designing Women
Best Dessert - China Beach
Best Costume - Facts of Life
Best Table - Rainbow Bright