STUDENTS HONOR COLDWATER MEN

Coldwater Elementary School, with help from the Coldwater Optimist Club and
others, last Friday honored two men who served as role models for the
children of their community.

The fifth and sixth grade students from the school had the opportunity to
participate in the John Hankerson/Marlin Stanford Memorial Run as a
culmination to their Red Ribbon Week emphasis.

John Hankerson, who died in 2002, was a coach for many years in Coldwater
and later worked for the Corps of Engineers at Arkabutla. His widow,
Shirley Hankerson, attended the race and presented ribbons to the first and
second place winners from the sixth grade.

Marlin Stanford spent many years educating children on the dangers of drugs
and alcohol as a DARE officer. Stanford died in 2000. His widow, Carolyn,
was at the race and awarded ribbons to the fifth grade winners.

The students heard presentations from Erick A. Shelley of Regions Bank, who
told them to always do the right thing, and Senatobia DARE Officer Arthur
Avant, who told of Marlin Stanford's influence in his life.

Coldwater Optimist President Vernon Jackson and other members of the club
were also in attendance.

All participants received a T-shirt, courtesy of the Coldwater Optimists.