To the Editor:

The Rudyard Area Education Fund presented several thousand dollars in scholarships to graduating seniors at the RHS awards assembly May 14.

Among the recipients was the winner of an essay contest, Rhea Moses of Rudyard. Her entry, "Life in the Eastern Upper Peninsula," was written in response to a published work that focuses on the pleasures of living in the EUP.

In my judgment, Rhea's essay is worthy of publication. It resonates with anyone who is both proud and happy to be a resident of this part of Michigan. For the benefit of your many readers, please allow me to include a few passages from Rhea's composition:

"Some nights the quiet sounds of a country spring are beyond peaceful. A Michigan spring is a melody of nature, like the soft sounds of a world famous orchestra, floating through my bedroom window.

"My parents own a small farm where we have had the opportunity to raise horses, cows, rabbits, chickens, and a pig from time to time. Life on a farm may not be appealing to most kids, but I wouldn't trade the memories, the fun, or the knowledge I gained from working as a family unit.

"I have so many experiences and memories from my life here. Many of those come from the fun we had while camping out at Monocle Lake...making S'mores by the campfire while telling ghost stories, swimming and fishing. These are the stories and memories that will always stay with me, reminding me of home, family, and the privilege of where I grew up.

"Some might say we have fewer opportunities here, but I don't believe so. Our opportunities come in a different fashion. We may not have the fun amusement parks or big fine arts centers that are available in the bigger cities. However, what we do have are teachers that have time for one-onone learning with their students, teachers who show how much they really care...We have churches that are the foundations of our community, where old and young are active together. I don't feel like I just live in Michigan, I feel like Michigan is a part of me. I love the quiet strength and beauty that have always supported my family..."

Rhea's words are an inspiration. Furthermore, I feel she speaks for the overwhelming majority of young people in our area. The values they have learned will guarantee them a bright future. Larry Flanders RAEF Board Members Trout Lake