Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer

Jennifer Hsu, Human Resources Manager at VYYO, is leading the Daffodil Days fundraising effort at her company for the second year. Last year employees purchased approximately $200 worth of flowers and Hsu hopes to triple that amount this time around. VYYO is very supportive in this fundraiser, matching the total dollar amount raised by 100 percent.

Flowers of Hope

By MELISSA MATCHAK

For the 16th straight year, the American Cancer Society will sell daffodils, the first flower of spring, in an effort to raise funds to benefit cancer patients nationwide.

During Daffodil Days, which runs through March 2, individuals will have the opportunity to purchase bouquets of daffodils for friends, family or co-workers. The flowers will be delivered by volunteers during the week of March 26. Bouquets can also be purchased as anonymous donations to cancer patients and others whose lives have been touched by cancer at Santa Clara County medical centers, hospitals, nursing homes, treatment centers and retirement homes.

Daffodils are available in participating business offices and through local branches of the American Cancer Society. Donations of between $10 for a bouquet of 10 flowers and $110 for an elaborate arrangement will go toward fighting cancer nationwide.

Jennifer Hsu, an employee at VYYO in Cupertino, participated in Daffodil Days at the two companies where she previously worked. She implemented the fundraiser at VYYO in January 2000, and said over half of the small company bought flowers last year.

"It's a good event because it's really fulfilling when you get people to buy flowers," Hsu said. "Seeing flowers all over the office is a reminder of not only what they contributed but of the patients being helped. It gives the office a positive feeling."

Monica Walls, a Sunnyvale resident, has participated in Daffodil Days for the past five years. She said she is also one of the volunteers who will deliver the flowers in March. Walls has friends and family members who are survivors of cancer.

In addition to the five daffodil arrangements available, individuals may choose to make a donation of $15, $25, $50 or $100 for a Gift of Hope bouquet, delivered anonymously to a cancer patient. Gift of Hope donations also fund educational programs, services for cancer patients and their families and the mission of the American Cancer Society. To order flowers or for more information, call 800.ACS.2345, or the local chapter at 408.879.1032, ext. 150, or go to www.cancer.org.

Sheriff's Report

Jon Hoornstra: Could you push the button?

American Cancer Society will hold its 16th annual Daffodil Days fundraiser for cancer research

Sports Briefs

Montanez wins league title for Mats