A local business is making it easier for people to send a message of love and appreciation to the troops serving overseas.

Kirkley-Ruddick Funeral Home is collecting Valentines for Operation Valentine through Feb. 1. Valentine messages delivered to the funeral home will be delivered to the troops serving our country.

In the past week, there has been a "wonderful outpouring" of support from the community, said the funeral home's funeral director Donna Dallas. Local elementary schools and Sunday school classes also are contributing to the effort, said Dallas.

A member of Veterans and Family Memorial Care, the...