Out and about

NATIONAL VETERANS AWARENESS WEEK

The designation of November 9 through November 15, 2008, as "National Veterans Awareness Week" was passed by Congress this year to emphasize the need to develop educational programs regarding the contributions of veterans to our country. The first three statements from the Resolution provides a dramatic impact on how important the continued education of all of our children concerning Veteran's Day.

- Whereas tens of millions of Americans have served in the Armed Forces of the United States during the past century;

- Whereas hundreds of thousands of Americans have given their lives while serving in the Armed Forces during the past century;

- Whereas the contributions and sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by the people of the United States...

Teach your children that freedom does come at the ultimate sacrifice and to those that have fought and continue protecting my freedom and yours. Thank You is not enough for your courageousness, your selflessness and extreme dedication to freedom. Here are two great causes to help show your support of our soldiers and veterans.

SOLDIER ADOPTION PROGRAM

P.J. Degross annual Christmas program for soldiers overseas is a great way to give back to our U.S. service members deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Not only does P.J. work extremely hard at Christmas trying to "adopt out a soldier," she helps all year long. An adoption of a soldier means that you can support your trooper by sending letters, cards, goody box or more if you like, and remember them during the holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Valentines Day, etc.

WHO: P.J. DeGross "Soldier Adoption Program"

WHAT: Support your soldier by sending cards, letters, photos and treats, etc.

CONTACT: P.J. Degross at 775-887-1767 or email her at PJdahling@aol.com

WEB-SITE: WebofSupport.com and download the fact sheet.

THE WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA

It started 15 years ago with only 50 people. But now, Wreaths Across America donates over 90,000 wreaths which are placed by volunteers in a wreath-laying ceremony each December at Arlington National Cemetery during the holidays. The mission to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices made by our veterans has spread and captured the hearts and minds of many communities across the country, including Nevada. You can participate in the program at the following locations within our state. If you watch the video tribute please make sure to have a Kleenex nearby. It is very moving.

South Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Boulder City; Veterans Park (Memorial), Winnemucca;

Northern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Fernley; Panaca Cemetery, Panaca and Pioche Cemetery, Pioche.

WHO: Wreaths Across America

WHAT: Wreaths for Veteran across America.

COST: Individual Wreath Sponsorship is $15

NON-PROFIT STATUS: Wreaths Across America 501-C3 status - EIN 20-8362270

CONTACT: Wreaths Across America wreath-laying ceremony if you like to volunteer to lay wreaths please call the Memorial Cemetery directly.

WEB-SITE: www.wreaths-across-america.org

Boulder City

Lead Squadron: Nellis Cadet Squadron

Location Leader: Lt. Col. Richard C. Brown

Contact Number: 702-438-6003

Winnemucca

President of Local Auxiliary Post Commander

Location Leader; Anita Paqutte, American legion

Contact: 775-623-2472

Fernley

Lead Squadron Leader: Wes Block

Contact Number: 775-575-4441

Panaca

Group: Lincoln County School District

Location Leader: Katherine Wheatley

Contact Number: 775-728-4236

Pioche

Group: Lincoln County School District

Location Leader: Stephanie Vincent

Contact Number: 775-962-5865

Teaching Materials Available

Web-Site: www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

- To have your information included, contact Kim Riggs at kimriggs@att.net.