My Life event making difference for female students

Dear Editor:

Have you ever had so many people take part in a large project and when it's all over, saying thank you just doesn't seem like it is enough? This is definitely the case for the My Life Event that took place on Tuesday, Nov. 25.

The My Life program allowed us to encourage our young female students to make positive life choices related to dating, relationships and life. The day's events focused on the value of one's self and the worth of others. These objectives were accomplished through group activities and discussions that were led by guest speakers.

This year's My Life event was a huge success thanks to so many! Community members served as mentors for the girls during the day's activities. Thirty-eight women of our community gave so freely of their time to serve our students. We know your time is valuable and arranging schedules can sometimes be a hassle; we appreciate you for that.

Four guest speakers offered their talent and time to lead morning sessions with the girls: Denise Hedges and Priscilla Barrios from Cottey College, Beau Norman, and Kasha Clark. A special thanks goes to Josh Bachand for running the sound booth and Garret Hankins for emceeing the event.

Jeanette Hawkins and Michelle Householder were instrumental in providing extra assistance wherever they were needed, including photography and photo developers. All of these people played a huge role in this event.

Many were behind the scenes ensuring the event's success. Generous donations were given from the Nevada Elks Lodge, Order of Eastern Star Chapter 53, Laurels, Osage Lodge No. 303, and several businesses to help offset the event's expenses.

A big thank you to Nevada Parks and Recreation for allowing us to "take over" a portion of the community center for the day. An extra special part of the day was the fabulous meal that was served to all who were in attendance. A special thank you to Louise Lunkenheimer and her Culinary Arts students for preparing the side dishes and desserts. In addition, a delicious smoked pork loin was prepared by Terry Dighero, Becky Dighero, Bob Bowen, and Bob Hacker of the Nevada Elks Lodge. No event is complete without set-up, takedown, and clean up. Credit and thanks for that goes to the Nevada R-5 Maintenance Department as well as the staff at the Franklin P. Norman Community Center. Thanks to Sgt. Dan Miller and Cpl. Jim Wilde who provided a demonstration in self-defense for the girls.

Thank you to the Nevada R-5 Transportation Department for shuttling students to and from the event. Lastly, thank you to the Nevada R-5 administration, for your continued support in this program.

Our sincerest gratitude goes to all who played a part in this event's success. "You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give." Winston Churchill

Many thanks,

My Life Committee:

Chrystie Braden, Kora Anderson, Tommy Geeding, Crystal Burch, and Cassie Irwin