by Bea Peterson
The High Seas Expedition Vacation Bible School sponsored by the Hoosick Falls First Baptist Church and First United Presbyterian Church was held July 19 to 23. This year’s Mission Project was the Veterans Memorial Wall in Wood Park in Hoosick Falls. A free will offering was taken at the opening program each night during VBS.
Marilyn Douglas, Cochair for the Committee, visited Tuesday evening to speak to the eighty-plus VBS students about the Memorial Wall and what it means to the community.
VBS students made over 90 cards and goodie bags during their visit to the VBS site, the “Galley.” The packages were delivered to the veterans at the VA Hospital in Bennington, VT.
Soldier Recognized
At the closing VBS program on Friday evening Mr. Patrick Kelley was recognized for his time spent serving his country. He had recently returned from active duty in the Middle East.
On September 1, VBS student Garrett Smith, accompanied by VBS Director Cheryl Downing, Secretary Nordica Scholis and Crew Leader Nick Downing, presented Marilyn Douglas with a check for $430 at the Memorial Wall. Cochair Phil Leonard and Douglas said they have both been amazed by the support of the community. The fund is now at $34,000. “Contributions from local small businesses and community organization have been outstanding,” said Douglas. “This wall is truly a ‘people’s memorial.’” Leonard added that he has been involved in many fund raisers over the years. “This one has been very heartwarming because most of the money has come from the ‘man on the street.’” Or, in the case of the VBS, the kids in the community.
