Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon (D-Utica/Rome) announced that she’s hosting a virtual Valentines for Vets celebration to show community support for local heroes.

“While the pandemic has made it difficult for us to gather together, it’s important to take time and thank our local military veterans for sacrificing so much for our country and its ideals,” said Buttenschon. “Many veterans, particularly those in long-term care facilities, may have difficulty staying in close contact with family and friends during the pandemic, and this is a great way for the community to show our support. I encourage all Mohawk Valley students to fill out a Valentines for Vets card and support local veterans.”

Buttenschon’s office has created a virtual Valentine for Vets card for students to digitally color in, which can be found here: www.nyassembly.gov/Buttenschon. Participants should send completed cards as an email attachment to ButtenschonM@nyassembly.gov by Monday, Feb. 8. The cards will be compiled to create a virtual slideshow that will be sent to the local nursing home where many veterans reside as well as be made available to the public.