Posted by Howard Richman on June 27 2008 at 10:25:39:
The above photo shows Bailey´s Cherry Blossoms. It accompanies a story by Heather Leskanic in the Oil City Derrick. Here is a selection:
Bailey´s Cherry Blossoms is just getting started, having held its first fund-raising event with "pay it forward" carnation sales at six area nursing homes and a Hospice House.HowardBailey Lewis, 17, of Clarion serves as group organizer.
"It was a real joy to see how the children brought so much happiness to so many people including residents and caretakers," said her mother, Patty Lewis, who plays a significant role in the activity.
Their first meeting was held at the beginning of May, and plans just took off from there.
Bailey´s father, Jon Lewis, was the one to suggest the group be formed and named Bailey´s Cherry Blossoms because she has always loved cherry blossom designs.
There are currently six girls ages 6 and 7 who are members, including Bailey´s younger sister, Laken.
"Bailey was looking to start something for her desire to help children," said Patty Lewis. "With the help of our (members´) parents, Bailey´s goal is to teach our children values, morals and the joy of giving."
She does so through a short lesson, craft and worksheet to make sure they fully comprehend what they have learned....
The group meets every two weeks with a focus on topics such as fire safety and stranger danger, how to care for themselves and others, nature and environmental issues, manners and etiquette, managing and saving money, and fitness.
Field trips are being planned for such activities as planting a garden, berry picking, zoo and aquarium, nature hike, museum, courthouse, and more.
Bailey, who is home-schooled through the Abeka Christian Academy, has helped out over the last year with Judy Bruner´s kindergarten class at Clarion Area Elementary School.
She is planning to attend Clarion University in fall 2009 with a major in elementary education....