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By TERRI FITZSIMMONS
The Progress
The local community of Mesquite gathered at the Virgin Valley High School March 25, to attend a scholarship fundraiser dinner hosted by the Mesquite Community Educational Committee. Over 150 people were present, eager to help out the town’s students in need.
Darlene Nelson, a retired schoolteacher who has been with the foundation for eight years, discussed the criteria for the scholarships. “It’s quite simple, really,” she said.
“Many students are discouraged because they know they can’t compete with the scholars who have a 4.0 GPA. They want to succeed but do not have the finances to do so. So anyone who has a GPA of 2.5 and can provide an essay about why they need the scholarship can apply. We encourage those who want to attend trade schools.”
She told the story about a young man who wrote in his essay that he wanted to be a mechanic because his mother never owned a car. She worked two jobs supporting him, and he wanted to get a job so he could help other people.
The guests enjoyed a varied musical venue, beginning with the school choir, which provided music from the ’30s. A group of senior women followed and then a jazz band, which was a part of the after-school program. They are off to Las Vegas to take part in a competition April 22.
Hot dogs and hamburgers were enjoyed by the guests, along with delicious root beer floats. Many cheerleaders were on board, attending to the tables.
The highlight of the evening was the silent auction. Almost 50 gifts were on display, some in beautifully decorated baskets. There were many gift certificates, some from the different golf ranges, restaurants and salons. Most of the community was represented at the auction table.
Darlene reminded the guests of the significance of raising money for these scholarships. “Many of the students are overlooked, and they all need a chance to succeed.”
Filed Under: Valley Life
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