Alta Fundraiser

The students of Alta High filled the school’s gymnasium on Nov. 11, dressed in their Sunday best’ to show respect for those who would be in attendance at the Veterans Day Assembly and Fundraiser Kick-off.

Veterans, families of veterans, Gov. Gary Herbert, Draper Mayor Darrel Smith, Rep. LaVar Christensen, officers from Sandy City Police Department, Huntsman Cancer Institute staff and other state and local government leaders all came to give support to and speak with students.

 “What are we doing with the freedom that has been passed down to us by our forefathers? Do we understand what it has taken for us to enjoy the lives we live today? What is it that we choose to do with our freedom and what are we making of ourselves?” Principal Fidel Montero asked the students at the start of the assembly.

Herbert then paid tribute to those who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.

“It takes a special kind of courage, a spirit of dedication and selfless commitment to be willing to serve in our armed forces; to put yourself in harm’s way for your fellow citizens. We are very blessed to live in a free nation and we should never take it for granted,” he said.

Students took several minutes to spotlight and remember Preston Suter, a former Alta High student who graduated in 2007. Suter was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan on July 5. A video of his life was presented and his family was recognized and given a bouquet of flowers in his honor.

Master Sgt. Mario Reeve, of the Utah National Guard spoke of the sense of pride and passion he has felt by serving our country. In doing so, he also thanked the students and faculty of Alta High School for the support and recognition they give to military service members. Reeve presented Montero with a flag which was flown in Afghanistan for the school on an aircraft during “Operation Enduring Freedom” on June 7, 2011, was presented to Montero.

After the guests’ remarks, the school fundraiser was announced by Sara Clark, student body financial chair. The Huntsman Cancer Foundation was selected to be the recipient of 100 percent of donations made for the cause.

“Huntsman is a very successful institute and hospital where research and treatment is taking place,” Sara said. “We as a student body want to give back to them.”

Huntsman’s program coordinator Jen Murano was in attendance to help kick off the fundraiser. Oakland Construction Company also committed to match every donation made, dollar for dollar and built plexiglass bins so each grade can compete throughout the year to fill the bins with cash donations.

“Everyone knows someone who has had cancer, so this fundraiser will hit close to home for many of our students,” Karl Packer, SBO adviser said.

The fundraiser will not be just for Christmas this year, but will last through the remainder of the school year into May. Alta sudent body officers urged every student to give whatever they can, even down to the change in the bottom of their pockets.

“We can and will make a difference, so please donate,” Sara said.