| Lakemary celebrates anniversary |
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| News | |||
| Written by Brandon Steinert | |||
| Wednesday, 30 September 2009 08:00 | |||
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Lakemary Center has influenced countless lives during its 40-year existence. Hundreds of people filled Founder’s Fieldhouse for a Friends and Families Luncheon Friday afternoon. After the crowd enjoyed some beef brisket and sides prepared by Lakemary’s own kitchen, some of the original founders spoke about the center’s history and their role in its creation, including the first president and CEO Patrice Schmitz Hall. “This is just great,” she said of the large turnout. “That’s all I can say, it’s just great.”  She spoke about the “power of one (person)” to set off a chain reaction of accomplishments, which in this case resulted in an institution for the developmentally disabled that has lasted four decades and is still going strong. The reunion-themed celebration attracted dozens of former students, teachers and supporters, as well as current government officials like Paola mayor Artie Stuteville and Kansas Rep. Jene Vickrey of the sixth district. “There’s a lot of history in this room right now,” said Kirk Davis, director of adult services at Lakemary. The weekend event continued through Saturday, which held much in store for its visitors, including an employee art show and sale, food, live music, games, wagon rides, face paintings, a petting zoo and more. To learn more about Lakemary Center, its history and recent developments, visit their Web site at www.lakemaryctr.org.
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