Costumes sought to brighten days for Iraqi youngsters

Hunter Hotaling HOWELL - Batman, Superman, Spider Man and a host of other superheroes will all be going to Iraq wrapped up in plastic and cardboard.

They will not be going on a covert mission to aid American troops who are fighting the war. Their agenda is to provide some escape and fantasy for Iraqi children.

Hunter Hotaling, 6, a former resident of Howell who now resides in Houston, undertook the challenge of sending 100 superhero costumes to the children of Iraq. Hunter's mission is to help his father, Capt. Andrew Hotaling, and the captain's military transition team bring smiles to the faces of Iraqi children.

According to information provided in a press release, Hunter's endeavor began when he asked his mother, Mary Anne, if he could join the Army. Hunter told his mom that he did not want to fight, he said he wanted to be the "chore guy."

After receiving an e-mail from his dad to send leftover Halloween costumes to Iraq, Hunter set a goal to gather 100 costumes.

His mom said e-mails were sent out across the nation and within a month Hunter met his goal.

Mary Anne said, "The experience was a positive one and this activity provided Hunter with something positive to do."

She also said she hoped the experience was not only positive for her son, but for the children in Iraq. According to Mary Anne, children in war stricken nations have just about everything taken away from them. This small gesture is a "luxury for some of those children."

The goal now is to keep collecting costumes for the children of Iraq.

Howell podiatrist Dr. Hal Ornstein said this gesture is more about "the people who give as much as they receive. This teaches our children how to care and give, and make a difference. It is not only about the end user."

Anyone who would like to donate a Halloween costume may drop it off at Ornstein's office, Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, 4645 Route 9 north, Howell (just north of Applebee's),

Costumes may also be dropped off at Young's Appliance, 4658 Route 9 south, Howell (just past Kmart).

For more information call (732) 685- 3600 or e-mail halo@footdoctorsnj.com.