You have 1 life and there are no power-ups

Matt Smelser, OHS Class of 2009 Valedictorian, made an excellent graduation speech combining adult wisdom and youthful outlooks.

My favorite line from Matt's speech (printed in its entirety in the May 20, 2009 issue of the Olathe Messenger) is "Class of 2009, go into this world and don't mess up. This isn't like a video game. You have one life and there are no power-ups."

Another great point:

" In all my years of watching my mom and grandma, I have learned 3 things about mothers:

1) No matter how old you are or how far away you move, your mother will always own you.

2) Your mom will always have the veto power, even if you are president.

3) Your mother is always right. End of story. "

I like this young man, and I haven't met him. His words are funny, wise, goofy, cool and thought provoking. I hope we get an update from him a few years down the road.

Some parting thoughts from Matt's speech:

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord." Colossians 3:23

Wise words for all of us.

Colgate Showdown coming to Olathe

Garth Brooks. Tim McGraw. Sara Evans. Brad Paisley.

Some of the greats in country music have been launched from the Colgate Country Showdown talent contest through the years. And this year, at the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival, we may see the next star at the State Finals.

This is a really good move on the part of the Activities Department, and the benefits to Olathe are great. Most important will be the national publicity for the Corn Fest that will be done through the event promoters, including local radio promotion leading up to the Corn Fest on Saturday, August 1.

This is in addition to having country music star Clint Black performing as the headliner.

See the May 29 issue of the Messenger to read the article by Matt Bufwack. And buy your reserved seating tickets now for the Corn Fest - they are going fast!