Congressman John Shimkus is again asking constituents to participate in his annual “Valentines for Heroes” program.  The congressman’s district offices will collect valentines for distribution throughout the region to veterans and those currently serving in the military.  “Thousands of valentines have come into my offices every year since we began Valentines for Heroes,” Shimkus said.  “Constituents have been overwhelmingly generous and supportive of our military men and women, past and present.  School classes, church youth groups, homeschoolers, and individuals have all helped brighten a soldier or veteran’s day,” he added.  This year, valentines will be accepted at Shimkus’ offices until February 5^th and will then be distributed to local VA and military facilities before Valentine’s Day.  Valentines may be dropped off or mailed to Congressman John Shimkus at any of his district offices, including 15 Professional Park Drive, Maryville, IL 62062.  Constituents should return signed valentines without addressing them to a specific person, without signing their last name or including their address, and without sealing them in individual envelopes.  All valentines are reviewed for content and appropriateness before distribution, and constituents can call the congressman’s Maryville Office at 618-288-7190 with questions.