News Briefs

Vietnam Veterans of America group will be organized in Palestine

A meeting will be held at 7 p.m., Tuesday, June 5, at Ryan's Steak House in Palestine to organize a chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) in Palestine. All Vietnam and Vietnam era veterans are invited to attend. Membership is open to U.S. Armed forces veterans who served on active duty (for other than training purposes) in Vietnam between Feb. 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975, or in any duty location between Aug. 5, 1964 and May 7, 1975.

Applicants must present a copy of their DD form 214 and the annual membership fee of $20 along with their applications.

VVA is an independent, self-governing membership organization, led by veterans.

They use the shared leadership vision to advocate issues important to veterans; seek full access to quality health care for veterans; identify the full range of disabling injuries and illnesses incurred during military service; hold government agencies accountable for following laws mandating veterans health care; create a positive public perception of Vietnam veterans; seek the fullest possible accounting of America's POW/MIAs; provide free representation to veterans in their claims for benefits; support the next generation of America's war veterans; and serve the communities.

For additional information interested persons may call Roger Carson (903) 570-0618.

Farm Bureau sponsors Ag Day for county students

Cherokee County Farm Bureau sponsored a Kids Ag Day April 30 for fourth graders from Rusk Intermediate, fourth and fifth graders from Alto ISD and Wells ISD schools.

There were approximately 300 children and teachers attending the event at the Farm Bureau office in Rusk.

During the day the children visited stations with exhibits from Texas Forest Service, Rusk Fire Department, Cherokee County Master Gardeners, Cherokee County Extension agents, Texas Farm Bureau and Southwest Dairy Mobile Dairy.