Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Life Skill Conference Held

Boys to Men and Girls to Women (BM-GW) held its second annual life skill conference Saturday, April 10 and Prescott Middle School.

The conference started at 9 a.m. with Willie Wilson presiding. He gave an overview of the program. Invocation was given by Daryl Tidwell, a 10th grade student at Prescott High School.

The break-out sessions started at 9:30 a.m. The following topics were discussed:

Blood pressure. Known as the silent killer, people of all races, ages and gender are susceptible to this killer. With proper diet, exercise, good social habits and rest, a person may be able to avoid or control this disease, according to Pam Teague, Southwest Arkansas Development Council Home Health in Prescott.

Drug prevention and staying out of trouble, are two of the most troublesome area in schools across this country. Willie McGhee of El Dorado, a youth coordinator was very straight forward with the kids in presenting the facts.

Teen pregnancy and sexual transmitted diseases are problems facing young females across America. Pat Blake, with the Arkansas Department of Health at Prescott, said the best way to prevent both pregnancy and diseases is to say "No." If you make a mistake, pick up the pieces of your life, set higher goals and go on with life.

Anger management and attitude. Kids in all walks of life are challenged with these two situations on a daily basis. How you handle them may determine what direction your life will take. U.S. Rep. Robert White, Congressional District 37, advised when a person is faced with a difficult situation and the other person wants to fight, the smarter choice is to just walk away.

Nutrition is one of the very basics for a good long healthy life, according to Dr. Rosemary Rodiabaugh, nutrition specialist with the Extension service in Little Rock. She discussed the food pyramid with food games. Prizes were awarded.

Grooming, making impressions and simple courtesies were the highlight of Mike and Beth Ward as they discussed dressing for different occasions, male or female courtesies, introductions of male to female and daily grooming.

The conference ended with a fish and chicken luncheon catered by Kregs of Arkadelphia.

Pearl Bailey presented all young men and women who had made the honor roll at Prescott Elementary, Middle and High Schools. All students who made 'SS' in conduct were also recognized. The BM-GW choir, directed by Yvonne Thomas, sang two songs. Benediction was given by Verlene Block.

A total of 72 persons were in attendance.