Editor, The Herald:

Thanks for your support of the 24th Annual Catfish Festival held at the Farmville Five County Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 16, 2011. Everyone seemed to enjoy the food and festivities that day in spite of the bad weather. About half of the folks came that usually show up. Many of the 36 children did come who live in nearby counties. It is always good to see them.

We are always looking for children under the age of 18 who need “FREE” help. Shriners Hospital are dedicated to improving the lives of children needing special care involving bones, joints and/or muscles, rehabilitative care for burn injuries and spinal care injuries. Eight of the 22 Shrine Hospitals now treat cleft lip and palate conditions. The next “FREE” screening clinic will be held on Oct. 1, 2011 at Farmville's Centra Southside Community Hospital where an orthopedic person will see them. Shriners will be there to assist in the application process prior to forwarding the application to the nearest Shrine Hospital for further examination.

For further information on Shriners Hospitals and admission, please contact (800) 237-5055; or just contact any Shriner in your neighborhood; or call the undersigned. We will all do what we can to help.

Thank you again for what you do to help a child in need.

Percy Cochran, Secretary

Southside Shrine Club

Burkeville