May 14, 2015

Second annual "Dedicated to Serve' event honors Veterans

By Marianne Mueller

Reporter

Spa’s second annual "Dedicated to Serve" event, which took place along the river on Sunday, May 3.

Lydia and Grace Krienke opened ceremonies in a perfectly harmonized singing of our National Anthem. The Rockton American Legion Post #332 Rifle squad gave a 21-gun salute, followed by chilling sounds of “Taps” played by Everett Phile.

Organizer, Erica Smith welcomed everyone who came out to show support. “Today’s event is held in honor of “Operation Support Our Troops," Smith said.

Smith introduced the day’s guest speaker, Judy Taylor who did two tours in Iraq.

“I joined the Army when I was 17," she said. "I have 10 years total service in a combat zone,” said Taylor.

“While in the Army I was in Civil Affairs and was as a recruiter.  When you are helping people you do not feel like you are in combat,” added Taylor. "When you see anyone who has served a simple 'Thank You' is awesome and greatly appreciated.”

Rockton’s Police and Fire Department collaborated with the Rockton Sanctuary Spa by hosting a bike rodeo and safety fair. Young and young at heart toured a smoke house.

Police officers instructed youth on bikes through an obstacle course. Free helmets were given out. Those who participated in a “Touch a truck” activity learned features of a fire truck.  Teaming up with the Rockton Police and Fire was Rockford Bicycle Company who did safety checks on bicycles.

Extra fun happened in the Epic Events photo booth. Rockton Sanctuary Spa therapists gave chair massages. 

Midway Village captured attention during a memorable Military reenactment.

Macktown Lion’s Club, Henna Tattoos, and Dr. Andrena Sayles each had displays and greeted the public. Music was provided by Rollin’ Whiskey.” Fry Babies offered a selection of food. Hononegah Archery opened a new season of lessons.

 Raffle prizes, a bake sale, and T-shirt sales combined with $155 in monetary donations raised funds to go toward Operation Support Our Troops during the “Dedicated to Serve” event. Additionally many items have been donated but there is plenty of room for more!

Operation Support Our Troops- America is a volunteer non-profit (501C3) organization whose mission is to improve the morale of troops serving in harms, to support the families of deployed military, and provides help and support to returning wounded.

After donations have been received boxes will be shipped to troops. Each Military person will get a package weighing close to 25 LBS. Each package costs around $25 to ship.

 Letters written to our Troops are also very welcome. Young ones or those who are unable to write may choose an option of coloring a picture.

Rockton Sanctuary Spa will be hosting a Grand Opening celebration on Friday, June 5 at Settler’s Park from 7 to 9 p.m. A final collection will be taken for our Troops during the event. Items needed include sunscreen, (no aerosol or glass), foot powder, individual cold drink mixes, (Propel, ice tea; etc.), coffee singles, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, shaving cream(non- aerosol), insect repellent, lip balm, dryer sheets,  and male body wash- size 16 oz. or less. It is requested that expiration dates be checked on all items. This is the perfect opportunity to give back to those who sacrifice unselfishly!

The second annual Dedicated to Serve event honored those who care for, serve, protect and inspire others with their gifts!