Poppy distribution to begin

American Legion Auxiliary volunteers will distribute the familiar red, handcrafted Poppies honoring America's war dead on Monday, May 28. The day was designated as Poppy Day by Sackett-Merrill-White Unit 575 in Bergen. Volunteers will be distributing poppies on Main Street during parades in both Bergen at 9 a.m. and Byron at 11 a.m. Poppies are also available at local businesses and restaurants in the Bergen and Byron communities.

Planned to coincide with the Memorial Day holiday, the annual event pays tribute to those veterans who have died in the last 85 years. It also honors the millions of Americans who have willingly served their country in the last eight decades. Veterans make each nine-piece poppy in Auxiliary-sponsored Poppy Shops that supplement physical and psychological therapy needed by hospitalized and disabled veterans. The Auxiliary provides the materials and the volunteers. The veteran makes the poppy and is paid a small amount for each flower. For some, it is their only income. Myrna List is chairman of this year's event.

May 13, 2007