Ledger Looking Back 25 Years: November 5, 1996

Paulette Atencio thinks everyone should know how to tell a good story, how to succeed at being self-employed, and how to cook tempting meals. Atencio was in Whitehall last week, visiting the schools and sharing her wisdom with the students.

As part of the Helena Presents program, Atencio was in the midst of a six-month tour to schools all over the country. She spends a week in each town, telling stories and teaching teachers how to do the same. Telling a story well involves much more than keeping things in order, Atencio told listeners. A good storyteller knows how to get the listeners involved, play with their emotions, and convey a deeper message, she said. Atencio, from Chama, New Mexico, has been a professional storyteller for 19 years and said she has learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way which she wants to share with kids.

“You must learn never to be scared of a challenge and to be everything you can be,” she told the Trojan middle school students.

Rachael Wanner, chairman of the Supervisory Committee at Tobacco Root Federal Credit Union in Whitehall, has earned the Supervisory Committee Certificate in the “Volunteer Achievement Program.”

The certificate is given for completing six successive program modules in the Volunteer Achievement Program. Some of the topics covered include history and philosophy, financial reports, managing risk, supervisory duties and responsibilities, Auditing I and II.

Sue Joy, manager of Tobacco Root Federal Credit Union in Whitehall, has earned the Management Enrichment Training (MERIT) program award. The MERIT designation is earned by completing six MERIT modules of the MERIT program. Topics covered management, communications, personnel administration, and the performance evaluation process. MERIT is a correspondence program designed specifically for credit union management to help build teamwork, and a strong member-oriented organization.

Trojan Student of the Week is James Frazer, a Senior at WHS. He was nominated by Chuck Peterson for his willingness and knowledge in loading computer software for the students, teachers, and the principal. He is the son of James and Lois Frazer.

Trojan Athlete of the Week is Kurt Larsen, a Senior at WHS. Kurt was nominated by Mike Battaiola for football because he played well all season and was a leader on and off the field. In the play-off game vs. Huntley, Kurt had two key quarterback sacks; he also was the leading tackler in the game. He is the son of Diane and Bruce Larsen.

Trojan Educator of the Week is Choir/Music teacher Mary Brazill. She was nominated by Mrs. Thronson because she has an outstanding music department and provides many opportunities for students to succeed in visual and performing arts. Her choir is outstanding. Mary has been with the district for four years.