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OSC hosts holiday market, raises scholarship money

  • Published
  • By Donovan Jackson
  • Air University Public Affairs
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  The Maxwell-Gunter Officers' Spouses' Club held its eighth annual Holiday Mini Market on Nov. 30 at the Maxwell Club.

The Holiday Mini Market raised more than $1,260 to offset costs for their charitable events, which include raising money for scholarships given to military students.

"This past year, the OSC's charitable distributions were over $57,000, including more than $25,000 awarded in scholarships," said Melissa Rich, president of OSC.

The 42 vendors participating in the event were comprised of small businesses, home enterprises and individual sellers from Maxwell, Montgomery and the surrounding area.

An assortment of items such as straw hats, embroidered garments, toys, games and custom jewelry were displayed on vendor tables for potential customers and onlookers.

"I had a blast at the holiday market," said Christine Bushby, an independent consultant for one of the booths. "I attended last year's holiday market as a customer and decided then to attend this year as a vendor."

Bushby, who also works for mortuary affairs at Maxwell, said she was raising money for her son Andrew's Eagle Scout project.

"He will be making fleece blankets for children going through cancer treatment at the Children's Hospital in Birmingham," she said.

Vendors who were not directly affiliated with the base expressed appreciation for the experience and opportunity of attending the Holiday Mini Market.

"I really appreciate OSC for allowing us shop owners that are not directly affiliated with the military an opportunity to take part in this event," said Del Mock, owner of a local business.

Del creates everything in her shop by hand, and she said that it usually takes two to three hours to create just one dress or nightgown.

"This was my second year attending the mini market, and I must applaud those in charge for the gracious hospitality they gave to the vendors," Mock said.

This year's market saw an increase in vendor attendance.
"We are very happy with this year's mini market turn out," said Michelle Cool, coordinator for the Holiday Mini Market.

"There were 42 vendors at this year's market and 37 at last year's. We hope that all of those in attendance continue to spread the word of their pleasurable experiences at the market, and we hope to have more vendors next year," said Cool.

The OSC is dedicated to promoting the morale and welfare of the military family through charitable events, monthly programs and social interaction.
"One of our main sources of revenue for our charitable activities is the Maxwell Thrift Shop, and I am very appreciated of everyone who volunteers there," said Rich.

Those interested in becoming a member of the Maxwell-Gunter Officers' Spouses' Club should download and complete a membership application, located on the club's website at http://www.mgosc.info/home/membership.