Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Vets monument project slowly advancing

The Yorba Linda Veterans Memorial Association still needs more than a $100,000 for the project to honor all veterans.

YORBA LINDA — Sue Fenwick promised her friend Patrick Flynn – a Marine veteran of the Korean War – that a memorial in honor of all servicemen would be built in the city.

"Him, all the vets and their families have inspired me," Fenwick said. Soon after Fenwick made her pledge, the Yorba Linda Veterans Memorial Association was created by several residents. Little by little, Fenwick's promise is coming to fruition.

The city recently accepted $139,000 in improvements for the project made to the Veterans Park walkway by C.S. Legacy Construction Inc.   But the improvements don't include the cost of the monument, which is projected at $250,000, Fenwick said.

The association's goal is to build the memorial using only private donations and fundraisers, she said, which until now add up to $65,000.   "The motivation to do this without any compensation makes a stronger statement to vets and their families that donors and volunteers sacrificed more than tax dollars," Fenwick said.

The Yorba Linda Sunrise Rotary Club recently presented the association with a $10,000 check and the Shinnyo-En Buddhist USA Temple said it will give a check for $10,000, Fenwick said. The construction drawings might come from a donor, she added.

The association is now sending letters to major corporations, foundations and groups seeking donations. For the past two years, the letters have targeted smaller groups. In addition to the letters, the association has created a Ways and Means Committee, which is in charge of organizing events, coming up with ideas and volunteering at events.

Fenwick said she hopes construction will start next summer. The project would hopefully be ready for dedication on Veteran's Day next year, she added.

People who wish to make a donation or become a volunteer can contact Fenwick at 714-777-4551.

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