Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Austin Family Wins Trip To Olympics

A lifelong dream came true recently for Prescott Elementary School Principal Howard Austin.

On Tuesday, April 9, Austin was presented with tickets to the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, along with a check for $1,000 to cover expenses.

The presentation was made by representatives of Lifetouch National School Studios, a photography business which takes school pictures.

Austin's name was placed in the "hat" with the names of principals from across the nation. Only two were selected to go, and Austin was one of them.

He and his wife, Vera, will spend three days and nights in Atlanta at the Olympics, getting to see events of their choice. The prize also included tickets to two events per day during the three days.

In addition, a tent will be set up for the Austins at the events of their choice. Under the tents, they will be able to rest, get out of the sun's blistering July heat and enjoy refreshments provided to them as winners.

But this isn't all. The Austins can take as many photographs at the Olympics as they want, all courtesy of the Kodak Co. Kodak, along with providing film, will process all photos taken at no charge.

There's more. Kodak will also give Howard and Vera complimentary Olympic items to bring back to Prescott.

Three of the events the Austins hope to see include the U.S. Basketball "Dream" Team, gymnastics and track and field.

During the presentation, Judy Oktay, territorial manager for Lifetouch, said the Austins will be provided with a hotel rooms and transportation from the hotel to and from the Olympic games.

"Many things have been set up for you," she said. "You'll enjoy it."

"We appreciate you giving us the opportunity of a lifetime," Austin told Oktay. "I've always wanted to go to the Olympics."

"We're excited about the trip," Austin's wife said. "We're looking forward to it. It's something that only happens once in a lifetime."