BENTONVILLE — It wasn’t the standard awards banquet.
A Decatur Middle School educator said the school’s nominee, Ger Vang, is a model student from a large family of 11 who baby-sits a younger sibling after school. “His ultimate goal,” the writer noted, “is to become the first person in his family to graduate from college.”
He was among almost 20 students honored Tuesday during the Jim Friesen Youth Excellence Awards banquet at the Doubletree Guest Suites.
The Kiwanis Club of Bentonville hosts the annual event, which recognizes students who have excelled in the face of challenges while contributing to their families, schools, churches and communities.
Other honorees were:Gentry Middle School - Levi Franks, Gravette Middle School - Elizabeth Crone, Decatur High School - Tyler Beck, Gentry High School - Tyler Glenn, Gravette High School - Kade Edward Williams, Ozark Adventist Academy - Kenneth F. Crone.
U.S. District Judge Jimm Larry Hendren was the featured speaker for the evening’s program.
He told the group that “it’s not remarkable what you achieve in life; it’s remarkable what you overcome to achieve anything.”
Hendren praised the students and told them they have gained the respect and admiration of others. He encouraged them to continue their endeavors and to take advantage of opportunities.
“The achievement you enjoy tonight is not the end,” he said. “It’s just the beginning.”
Family and Friends, Pages 6 on 05/05/2010