Bowling fundraiser knocks pins, warms hearts

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nora Anton
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The 2007 Operation Warmheart Bowl-a-thon fundraiser takes place 5 p.m. Nov. 17 at the bowling center.

The fundraiser is the First Sergeant Council's sole fundraising event to raise money for Thanksgiving baskets and commissary vouchers for families in-need during the holiday season, said Master Sgt. Scott Watson, 354th Aircraft Maintenance first sergeant. Last year the event raised more than $7,800 for families on and around Eielson.

The council is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to enhance the morale and welfare of Eielson personnel and their families

"The event worked out great last year," said Tech. Sgt. Alison Sanford, 354th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School instructor. "The First Sergeant's Council did a fabulous job organizing the teams; my team had a blast and it seemed every one there was enjoying themselves."

The bowl-a-thon consists of each squadron or associate organization (i.e. Airman Leadership School, Chief's Group or Wing Top 3) being represented by a five-person team, whose entry fee is a minimum of $200 in pledges.

Individuals who would like to participate but are unable to sign up in advance, or unable to fill a team, should arrive no later than 4:30 p.m. prior to the event. To fill any lane vacancies, the council is allowing last-minute teams to sign up on a first-come, first-served basis.

Awards will be presented for highest team score, highest individual score, most money raised, and more. There will be opportunities throughout the night to win prizes.

"Warmheart isn't about being the best bowler," said Sergeant Sanford, "it's about supporting our community and Iceman Team."

"The more sponsors and money the teams raise, the more families we can help during the holiday season," said Sergeant Watson.

This fundraising event is also used to aid military members financially due to personal hardships, like a death in the family or loss of property due to a fire, throughout the year, he said.