A huge blossom to the generous citizens of Monroe and surrounding communities who donated well over $1,000 to the VFW "Buddy Poppy" program Oct. 3-4. Thank you to local businesses who let volunteers solicit at their establishments; your cooperation makes this possible. The program provides compensation to veterans who assemble the poppies and financial assistance in maintaining veterans' rehabilitation and service programs. Our thanks to all who proudly wear that little red flower. - Lucian LeMak and Betty Daehlin, VFW Post 2312 and Ladies Auxiliary Buddy Poppy co-chairs



Blossoms to those who understand Pat Bomhack is the best replacement for State Sen. Dale Schultz. Why? Marklein forced Dale out. Dale always responds to contacts about community needs. Marklein never replies when we contact him on issues. Marklein runs ads that look and sound good, but at voting time, he votes to hurt our communities when he's said he'll help us. Bomhack will work for folks who live here, not billionaires. -R.J. Bell, South Wayne



A blossom to Anthony Wahl for the outstanding photo of the eclipse. It was just out of this world. - John Bussman