On Saturday, January 7, Orleans County 4-H members gathered at the Fairgrounds to participate in a community service project to create Valentine's Day cards for United States Armed Forces men and women. This is the tenth year the group has participated in this community service project. The cards are distributed by Friends of Our Troops. Two years ago, Orleans County 4-H received national recognition for creating nearly 6,000 Valentine's Day cards, making them the top contributor for the Valentine's Day card campaign. Since then, restrictions put in place by Friends of Our Troops has led to a decrease in the number of cards made as 4-H members adjust to the changes and seek new ways to channel their creative energies and ideas. According to 4-H Team Coordinator Margo Bowerman, only 873 cards were created this year, but the quality, creativeness and appreciation for the service of our Armed Forces are still inspiring. The Orleans County 4-H Senior Council sponsors the event by providing supplies, paying dues to Friends of Our Troops, and mailing the cards. January 22, 2006 |
