Beech Tree News Network

VFW Post 5837 sponsors the Buddy Poppy Good Citizens Writing Essay for 5th-grade students at MES and North Butler each year. The students learn about the Buddy Poppy that is made by disabled veterans. Rules of the essay are to talk to 5 veterans about the poppy and this year they were to write a letter to Mayor Phelps voicing concerns they have or to thank the Mayor.

The winners participate in the countywide Veterans Day Program the BCHS, Veterans Day Parade, Memorial Day services and this year they were taken on tours of City Hall and County courthouse, where they became city council members and judge for a minute.

The first stop was City Hall; Mayor Phelps read the letters they had written and addressed their concerns. He told them of the upcoming renovations at City Hall and the Charles Black Park, and all the departments within the city and answered many questions.

Then on the Courthouse to meet with Judge-Executive David Fields. We meet Judge Fields in his office and gave them the information on his job and said he couldn't do it without the people that work in his office.

The first stop after the judge's office was Sheriff Scottie Ward. He told them to enjoy their hours out of school. They were very quiet and ready to move on.

Next office was Sherry Johnson County Court Clerk, they were taken into the vault, and she told him her job was record keeper for the county. Also, all elections are overseen by her office, when you are ready to get married she will issue the license, and when you own your first car, you will visit her on your birthday. She informed them about voting and helped them find their voting precinct.

Next door PVA Suzanne Brosnan informed them how you are evaluated on all property that you, cars, boats, land, etc. Then she showed them on the BIG screen the aerial view of where they live.

Then across the hall to County Attorney Dick Deye, his duties to prosecute when you have broken the law, and he hoped that he never had to see any of them in a courtroom. He also said he keeps Judge Fields out of trouble.

To finish the day back across the street to "Rebecca's on Main" for a delicious lunch and more history given by Don Lindsey. The restaurant is in the Old Morgantown Bank Building. He also talked about his fossil collection that is on display at the Butler County Library.

WHAT A GREAT DAY!!!

The VFW Post 5837 thanks everyone for an educational and fun day for us as well as the Buddy Poppy Good Citizens.