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Second grade students in Kristen Thomas' class at Sunrise River School in North Branch, made their second trip to The Villages of North Branch Tuesday, Dec. 15. In October the class made their first trip and began establishing relationships with seniors as part of a year-long generations writing project funded by a grant through the Minnesota Reading Association. The grant was awarded to Thomas in June and the money used to purchase writing supplies and other materials, and paid transportation costs and other fees associated with the project.

In this trip students continued to gather information and inspiration for their writing in a second interview. Prior to their visit students created cards and hand-made gifts they eagerly shared with their seniors. Students also brought along a favorite story and were able to read it to aloud while munching on holiday cookies and juice. The visit concluded with many smiles, laughs, a group picture and children singing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" as they made their way to the bus.

This project could not be possible without parent volunteers Gina Dufeck, Lisa Novak, Anne Roy, and Laura Kavannah who continue to make time in their busy lives to accompany the students on these trips.

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