Senator Carlucci Hosts Second Annual Valentines for Veterans Celebration

Suffern, NY (February 10, 2012) – Surrounded by scores of local veterans, school administrators and distinguished guests, Senator David Carlucci (D-Rockland/Orange) today hosted his second annual Valentines for Veterans Celebration at the VFW Ramapo Post 2973 in Suffern.  The organized event amassed a whopping 2,500 valentines that were donated by more than 35 schools throughout the 38^th State Senate District.    

A total of 60 fourth grade students from Pearl River’s Franklin Avenue Elementary School presented their hand-crafted valentine decorations in person to a roomful packed with 40 veterans in attendance.  The students also delivered a rousing musical performance by singing  four tribute songs to give credence to our nation’s brave men and women that served in uniform.

“Each year I look forward to the opportunity to recognize our sacred debt to America’s Veterans and to pass that appreciation on to our children,” said Senator Carlucci.  “This program is a welcome reminder to our veterans that your achievements and sacrifices on behalf of this country have not been forgotten.”

The presentation was held at the Senator’s regularly scheduled Veterans Advisory Committee meeting.  For the celebratory event held this morning included special guest and speaker William Kraus, Acting Director of the New York State Division of Veterans Affairs.  Also in attendance was Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) and New York State Senator William Larkin, who also serves with Senator Carlucci on the Veteran Affairs Committee in the New York State Senate. 

The fourth grade students were chaperoned by three of their teachers, Principal of Franklin Avenue Elementary Maureen Alaimo and their music teacher, Glyn Nixon, who played the piano in tune with the singing chorus.