Students work to improve community and themselves
By Kevin Schnepp

Reading is for all ages One of Tana Lehr's Hillcrest fifth-grade class members reads to a Carroll County Manor resident. Their time together was made possible through Red Ribbon Week programs. Comet photo by Kevin Schnepp

Virtually every Hillcrest student, faculty and staff member headed to Delphi last Wednesday morning to help spruce up the look of the city.

'We Tip Our Hats Off to Our Community' was the slogan of the service-minded school event. It was also the culmination of a busy and productive Red Ribbon Week.

Among the bustling morning activities was a visit by Tana Lehr's fifth-grade class to Carroll Manor. Through song, book readings, conversation and games, the students made the most of their opportunity to demonstrate their excitement and care to the Manor residents.

Fifth-grader Jennifer Sisson read a book about the Titanic to Manor resident Eleanor Sheets. All of the students took it upon themselves to find a book they wanted to read.

After reading to the residents, the class sang "Our America," a medley the group chose to perform.

Sisson and classmate Bobbi Jo Hayes reflected on the eventful gathering during the visit. They admitted they were a bit nervous upon arriving at the Manor, but soon felt more at ease as they and their reading partners got into their books.

Hayes said it helped her understand better how to interact with her new acquaintances when she thought of the residents as "kind of like old children".

Both Hayes and Sisson said they enjoyed the week's events, including visiting the Manor, because of the challenges and fun activities.

Seven-year resident Gary Christy was glad to have the students visit.

"It was great, lots of fun," said Christy. He has seen groups like Lehr's fifth-grade class come in annually, and said he always enjoys the visits. Several community businesses,

organizations, and individuals donated time, effort and materials to make the morning a success.

Sherri Cripe, coordinator of Red Ribbon Week, is very happy with the program. She wished to convey her thanks to all who participated to make the week a success.

Cripe stated the main aim of the week was "to give back to the community" and promote healthy recreational and lifestyle choices.

"Good and bad decisions both come with consequences," said Cripe. "A healthy community is a great community".