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Parade, tree lighting set for Nov. 28

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  • By Becky Pillifant
  • Services Marketing
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE --  As the cool November winds whistle through the trees, the 72nd Services Squadron is preparing for Tinker's annual holiday parade and tree lighting. Festivities will begin at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 28.
   The parade is part of National Military Family Month and this year's theme is "Celebrating an Oklahoma Centennial Holiday and the Air Force's 60th Anniversary."
   The parade will start at the Tinker Elementary School and wind its way through base housing heading north on McNarney Avenue, than east on Twinning Drive and across the bridge to the Tinker Club. This free event is open to everyone who has access to the base.
   Spectators will be able to see their favorite holiday characters like Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, the Grinch and Santa's helpers. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be on hand to share in the holiday spirit.
   "This is a great time for the Tinker family to come together and celebrate the holiday season," said Daniel Bell, 72nd Services Squadron director. "In addition, we are pleased to announce that we will have some very special guests who will be here exclusively for Team Tinker children of all ages -- Santa's own Prancer and his friend."
   It was reported that the second reindeer may be Vixen; however, things could change at the last minute. Several of the reindeer are continuing their endurance training and getting plenty of rest for the big flight.
   In addition, the Services Squadron announced that a limited number of pictures will be taken with Prancer -- one per family.
   The procession will also include police cars, a fire truck with Sparky the Fire Dog, Services mascots -- Sandy the Dog and Hercules the Hawk -- and horse-drawn carriages.
   After the tree lighting, everyone is invited into the Tinker Club for entertainment, free refreshments and holiday cheer. Children will have the opportunity to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
   Attendees are reminded to bring their camera to get a picture with Prancer, a favorite holiday character or Santa.
   Entertainment by the Penn Square Carolers and the dancers from the Youth Center and free refreshments are provided by the Tinker Federal Credit Union and 72md Services Squadron.
   In the case of inclement weather, the parade will be cancelled. However, the tree lighting, entertainment and refreshment will still be held inside the Tinker Club at 4:30 p.m.