Letter: Local students make state finals in program

On March 25, three groups of kids from Seeliger Elementary and one group from Eagle Valley Middle School made it to the state finals in a program called Destination ImagiNation(DI) (previously known as Odyssey of the Mind, or OM.) This is an international program promoting teamwork and creative problem solving, requiring that the children involve certain elements such as technical value, music and art into their presentation.

This year's state finals were held at Reed High in Sparks and showcased an enormous variety of ideas and solutions to the giver problems. Children from all over Nevada presented everything from "fruit roller coasters" to pasta structures holding upwards of 400 pounds and original theatrical performances including self-made backdrops, props and costumes. You would have to look hard to find such a talented and determined bunch of kids!

Carson City did very well, with a final tally of one third place, one second place and two first places, one to the Seeliger Elementary fourth grade team and one to the Eagle Valley Middle School team. The first place teams will go on to compete in the world championships in Iowa in May. Terrific job!

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the dedicated team coaches, parents, DI officials and judges. A big hand to all of you for lending your time and talents to our kids! On behalf of Emily, Ashley, Lindsay, Matt, Greg, Michael, Candace, Frida and all of us parents, I would like to extend a special thanks to Carson City teachers Mr. and Mrs. Brown, for coaching the Seeliger fifth grade teams with such enthusiasm and energy.

The best of luck to the Seeliger fourth grade team and the Eagle Valley team at the world championships. Way to go, kids! You've already won in my book!

LINDA SIVERTSEN

Carson City