'Three Musketeers' pace CROP Walk

IN ALL KINDS OF WEATHER- - The "Three Musketeers" of the Conejo Valley CROP Walk are, from left, Dot Blankley, Almeda Babcock and Elaine Peterson. They've been at it each year since 1978.

Dot Blankley, Almeda Babcock and Elaine Peterson have participated in the local CROP Walk since its inception in 1978. The three members of Church of the Oaks were inspired by CROP supporters Hal Sherman and Monica Willard to walk annually in the event, which raises funds for humanitarian projects by the Church World Service Organization. CROP stands for Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty.

The "Three Musketeers," as the women are known, have walked every year in all kinds of weather. "Sometimes the Santa Ana winds would buffet us as we walked," said Peterson. "Sometimes the heat would melt us. Sometimes it would rain on our parade."

They participate because they believe in it. "My connection is that 25 percent of what we raise here in the Conejo CROP Walk returns to help support five local charities," said Babcock. "We walk for the world and for our own community."

Blankley appreciates the work of the organization. "Instead of just sending money, Church World Service brings tools and education to struggling communities and villages," she said.

The Three Musketeers will walk again this Sunday, March 11, when the 29th annual CROP Walk takes place, beginning and ending at CLU. Registration is at noon and the walk starts at 1 p.m.