Sunday, July 8, 2001

Binky Patrol provides warmth and security for those in need.

By TERRI STALEY Journal Staff Writer    "Security Is a Thumb and A Blanket," Charles M. Schulz titled a 1963 book based on his Peanuts characters.    Generally the thumb is standard issue. Now, thanks to the achievements of an organization, the blankets are plentiful, too. Area children by increasing numbers can feel secure thanks to the efforts of the Binky Patrol.    Always on the lookout for children in need, not necessarily financially, but emotionally, the Minerva Area Chapter of the Binky Patrol has provided handmade blankets to fire victims, foster children, expectant mothers and children with serious illness.    In just a year's time, 237

"One of the good things about this is you set your own pace and what you come up with, you come up with." MARGE WARRICK blankets of all types and colors have been distributed by the highly organized yet loose-knit organization. This, in spite of the fact that "Most of us don't sew," admits Jenny McNutt.     Whatever talents people do posess are woven into the tapestry of giving the chapter promotes. "It is so broad what people can do," said Brandy Miller, who along with Betty Jones of Westville Lake makes

Morning Journal/Terri Staley Pictured from left are Betty Jones, Marge Warrick, Jenny McNutt and Brandy Miller and her daughter Brianna, age 2. They are working on one of the squares that will be available at the Salem Jubilee. CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING