By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
MARS HILL, Maine — Dec. 7 will mark the first Happy, Happy, Happy Christmas Party — what organizer Jamie Guerrette hopes will become a tradition.
“Why a Happy, Happy, Happy Christmas? A lady from out of state asked how we could use a donation from her to bless folks in our community — something different, that others weren’t doing,” said Guerrette.
Guerrette said that the After The Bell program “strives to instill a sense of community in our children, so that was my goal.”
“As I snuggled into bed the other night, I was pretty thankful for my warm flannel pajamas. I went to bed praying all children would feel the same warmth and security I had when I fell asleep, but I realize not all kids do,” Guerrette said. “So became the birth of our Happy, Happy, Happy Christmas event.”
Guerrette said she and the donor, who wished to remain anonymous, teamed up “to help keep kids warm this winter when they snuggle into bed.”
Preparation for the party involved a bit of shopping, according to Guerrette.
“We used the donation to buy ‘Duck Dynasty’ pajamas. Why Duck Dynasty? Well, that’s just because it is hot right now,” she said.
Guerrette said another anonymous donor also donated toward the cause.
“Since the original donor made her donation, a gentleman has almost matched it, doubling what we had originally thought we had,” said Guerrette, noting at the time they were “prepared to give away mroe than 50 pairs of warm pajamas.”
Additional donations allowed for even more pajamas to be purchased.
At presstime, Guerrette said on her Facebook page, “100 pairs of pajamas are spoken for, 20 pairs of homemade mittens for those that missed out on PJ’s and Christmas ring pops for those that missed out on both.”
Guerrette is also asking for help with goodies.
“Calling all bakers. We are looking for a few folks to bake cookies for the party, which will take place Saturday afternoon. Children will get a new pair of pajamas and enjoy the new ‘Duck Dynasty Christmas’ movie. If you’re interested in making some cookies, please let me know,” said Guerrette.
“Duck Dynasty” body pillows and cups will be offered as door prizes as well.
“The event is free, though pre-registration was required to receive pajamas. We’ll have cookies, popcorn and cocoa,” said Guerrette. “The event will be held at the Central Aroostook High School. Doors open at 3 p.m., the movie — A&E’s ‘I’m Dreaming of a Redneck Christmas’ — starts at 3:15 p.m. and Santa will hand out gifts at 4 p.m.”
Guerrette said prior to the party, a special event is planned for children who are sensitive to noise and crowds.
“We’ll be hosting a Sensitive Santa photo session at 2 p.m. for children on the autism spectrum. This event will be quieter and not as bright and loud,” said Guerrette.
“We’re looking forward to a day of fun,” said Guerrette.
For more information, look for Guerrette on Facebook or e-mail jamielguerrette@yahoo.com.
