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Health & Fitness

iCare Deployment Kits

When I turned on the news yesterday morning, I heard that embassies in Muslim countries were being closed for a day this weekend.  By the next news report, they were saying some would be closed even longer.  About an hour later, I heard there was a travel advisory and that was followed by an e-mail alert from the State Department.  Lucky for me, I have no immediate plans to leave the OC let alone head to a Muslim country. 

However, I do know of a group of people leaving.  In a few weeks, 1,400 Marines and Sailors from Camp Pendleton will be deploying on yet another mission.  I do not know where they are headed, but my guess is wherever they are headed, it is to protect American interests abroad and at home.   

To show these brave Marines & Sailors how much “iCare” and appreciate all they do, I am helping to organize the Homefront America iCare Deployment Kits campaign.  What are iCare Deployment kits?  They are gallon sized plastic bags filled with a variety of items... drink mixes, nuts, granola bars, microwave popcorn, etc.  I have already bought some drink mixes, Rice Krispie bars and paper airplanes to donate.  Even my nephew has picked out some cheese and crackers to put in the box.

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As these kits are being made up as a way to say thank you, good luck, and hurry home safely, I would love to see each bag also include a note.  My niece is looking forward to helping with this.  If you have some time, maybe you can write/make some to donate as well.  This would be a great way for Scouts to earn some service hours, a creative way to get your kids to practice their writing skills over the summer or, if you are like me, something to keep your hands occupied while you watch TV.

All of the items need to be turned in by August 10th.  There are collection boxes in San Juan Capistrano at the Farmers and Merchants Bank, the Capistrano Toyota/Scion dealership, DeNault’s Hardware, Ralph’s, and Curves.  I have heard that some Homefront America supporters have even put up collection boxes at their places of employment.  You can get further information at their website at www.HomefrontAmerica.org or see the attached flyers.

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As kids are preparing to go back to school, these men and women are preparing to leave for months away from their friends and families.  Local kids going away to college will most likely be home for the holidays.  These Marines & Sailors will not.  These men and women are but a small part of the 1% of Americans who volunteered to join the military.  I feel the very least I can do is show them in some small way my appreciation for their sacrifices.  I am hoping that others feel the same way and we can send our good wishes to all 1,400 for their safe return.  So the next time you are out shopping, please remember to purchase an extra box of granola bars or crossword puzzle book or something similar to help fill the bags.  Thank you in advance for your considerations.


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