January burger burn warms up new gazebo opening

  • Published
  • By SSgt. Katie Kiley
  • 439th AW/PA
WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. --  Westover experienced a rare day of January sunshine during the unveiling of a new gazebo outside the Airman & Family Readiness Center.

Temperatures rose to near 60 degrees during the Saturday UTA, and a crowd gathered to enjoy the new picnic area and a barbecue put on by the USO.

The summertime menu of hamburgers, potato salad, baked beans and pickles was dished up by members of the Airmen and Family Readiness Center and the USO. Cake was served by Katie Vautrain (wife of Col. Steven Vautrain, wing commander) and Westover's Key Spouse of the Year, Stephanie Smith.

"It might be the first time I've seen both cold beverages and apple cider next to a grill," said Smith.

Shanna King, newly appointed center director, was happy to see the gazebo put to good use this time of year; there wasn't an open seat to be found once lunch started coming off the grill. She said it was brought in to foster community and to provide a comfortable place to gather during favorable weather.

Every Monday night the staff at family readiness prepares a home-cooked dinner for those staying on base. King is confident the new picnic space will encourage people to come together to enjoy the meal and each other's company.

The spacious gazebo holds up to eight picnic tables and seats about 50 people. The gazebo and adjoining picnic area are open for public use.

Anyone who wishes to reserve it for a private event should contact the staff at 557-3024. The center is located in Bldg. 1100 off the Base Ellipse.