By Taylor Sterling

Prior to Thanksgiving, I had a chance to speak with the student councils of both Warwick elementary schools, Sanfordville and Park Avenue as well as the Warwick Middle and High School student councils about the Toys for Military Tots Drive that WTBQ sponsors each year. Once I shared who the toys will be gifted to, the realization in those young people’s eyes was quite evident. The idea that there are children who will go without even one toy this year stirred them to be a part of what America is really all about. Their enthusiasm is contagious! The Co-Advisors of the Student Council, Amy Buliung and Theresa Canfield, reminded me that we had met last December at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Goshen for the annual laying of the wreaths. Theresa went further and said that the conversation about who was at rest at the military cemetery spurred these youngsters to do more for those who sacrificed.  Add to this their parents who obviously are teaching the children what the real joy and blessings are for the season…sharing and giving back. At the Veteran Memorial Cemetery, we were all witness to the quiet movement of all the volunteers laying a wreath on everyone of those 4,000 graves. I participate every year with our amazing Nam Knights of Orange County, who raise the much-needed funds to purchase the wreaths which are $17 each, so you do the math.

 We will all be there again this December 16th as will our County Executive, Steve Neuhaus, with his children along with the Director of Veteran Affairs for Orange County, Christian Farrell and so many more to honor those who gave so much for our freedom and to keep America safe. After I spoke with all the student councils, the unanimous decision was they were all in to participate in the Toys for Military Tots drive for 2023. (See poster). Amy and Theresa paid WTBQ Radio a visit last week with the Park Avenue Elementary School Student Council. After the tour, we had one of the students (James Chavez Carey) voice a commercial for the toy drive. It is brilliant and you may all listen on the PTA’s Facebook page for Park Avenue Elementary School. James is a rock star! They are all getting the word out and getting into the holiday spirit of giving as they ask for everyone to donate new, unwrapped toys for babies to 12 years old. The toys will be divided between children of Disabled American Veterans in Orange County and children of Military either stationed or deployed from Stewart Air Force Base.  

God Bless you all for sharing with those who sacrifice so much so we may enjoy the holidays with our families. The final date for dropping off toys is December 8th and if you would also like to be part of the final photo op, please be at WTBQ on Sanfordville Road on Monday, December 11th between 9:30am and 9:45am. Giving is good for your heart and great for your soul and as Leo Kaytes, Sr. reminds us, REMEMBER THE REASON!