By Francis Ortiz
Moapa Valley Progress
On Friday, February 18, 2011 Ute V. Perkins Elementary School held its second annual “Dudes and Doughnuts” PTA event. The school cafeteria was full of excited children and a male representative in their life.
Entering the cafeteria there was a long line to receive doughnuts and choice of milk or juice. Not one student was complaining about the line; they were all too busy socializing with their Dudes and neighbors. Once they received their delicious morning treat, they happily found a seat and enjoyed while they giggled and talked with each other.
“There were 199 RSVP’s for this year’s event and we purchased 40 extra doughnuts to ensure that no one was left without a doughnut,” said PTA President Amy Levanger. “This is our second annual event and with about 210 attendees we surpassed last year’s numbers by about 60 people. When we created the Dudes and Doughnuts program it was to inspire quality time for the children with a significant male in the childrens’ lives.”
Justin Freeman was seated with his two daughters; Jeanee and Jorja. Justin was pleased to bring his girls into school. “Usually I have to work and miss the morning school events with my girls, but I was able to attend this morning and my daughters were very excited on our drive into school today,” Freeman said.
Alex Andrade attended with his daughter Yaneli. This was Alex’s first time attending the “Dudes and Doughnuts” event. “I love having my Dad and my closest friends here with me!” Yaneli said.
School principal Ken Paul stated “It is very heart warming to see how many Dudes where able to make it to the early morning program and spend time with the special students in their lives. This is the second year that we have supported the PTA with the “Dudes and Doughnuts” event. Last year it was called “Dads and Doughnuts.” This year we called it “Dudes and Doughnuts” on purpose; so that the children would feel comfortable bring any male figure in the lives to this event.”
“Without our PTA representatives we would not be able to have events like “Dudes and Doughnuts” take place,” Paul continued. “Thank you to our PTA volunteers!”
