A Note from Sydney

Recently I was privileged to be a part of a final check-out for Fort Riley soldiers who were deploying to Afghanistan. The American Legion provided each soldier with a 60-minute international phone card. The soldiers were very appreciative. They had been waiting in the building for several hours during this process, and when all was completed, they were welcomed at the Lady Troopers' reception table. The table was filled with cookies, breads, brownies, Rice Krispie treats and trail mix, most of which were made by Lady Troopers. Granola bars, peanuts, candy and gum were offered, as well as coffee, water and mixes for tea and cocoa. The soldiers were delighted. It meant so much to them. One of the functions of the Lady Troopers is to hold canteens for soldiers deploying overseas and for returning soldiers and their families. Lady Troopers bake homemade treats as well as volunteer their time to work at these canteens. But the freezers are empty and the deployments are picking up for December and January. My friends, these Lady Troopers could use our help. Won't you help us out? Your treats don't have to be fancy, but they should be marked with what kind of cookie, nuts, raisins, etc., and must be placed in a FREEZER zip-lock bag. What's needed are lots of cookies and treats. A dozen isnice but most recipes make six to eight dozen. Also, this is not a"one time" deal. As long as there is a war, the troops will be

leaving from Fort Riley. During this holiday season, most families are baking cookies and
treats. I am asking that we give the Lady Troopers a big boost and fill up their freezers with Manhattan cookies and treats. Diane Dodson, the wife of former Fort Riley Commanding Gen. Mike Dodson (Ret.), has a cooler on her front porch to receive the donations. You may contact her at 537-7577 to let her know you will help. Or call me a 539-6612. I will help her carry the merchandise to the freezers of the Lady Troopers. Won't they be surprised when we show them what Manhattan cooks can do? Also, monetary donations to help purchase items for the canteen may bemailed to Joyce Thomas, Treasurer, at 2928 Liberty Hall Road, Junction City, KS 66441 and made payable to Lady Troopers. Thank you so very much for any assistance that you can give these great ladies.

Thanks Sydney Carlin