[JaneYoung]

The first time I visited IRI, I just happened to catch Art talking with Bette at the volunteer check-in table. There was a lull in check-ins and we had a wonderful conversation about their involvement with 45. During that competition, I made a point of talking with each of them several times to learn from them. During the year before that IRI, I had become increasingly aware of how much I wanted to grow as a mentor and I was also aware that the central Texas area needed to grow a few teams before we would be ready to take on an off-season and develop in areas of training, workshops, and volunteering.

My initial reasons for traveling to IRI were to see the off-season and talk with mentors of other teams, as well as observe other teams in action, on and off the field. The Andersons were a goldmine of insight, experiences, wisdom, and humor. They understood the value of going the distance but not getting our knickers in a twist when things don't happen quickly or when we think they should. They may not even remember our conversations over the years that I traveled to IRI but - I do. It's very gratifying to be feeling totally lost without a compass and have such valuable mentors and teams in place to help establish a course of action or wisdom. The value is immeasurable.

The gifts that were given to me during my IRI experiences will always be precious and held close to my heart. No better example can be given than the way in which Mr. and Mrs. Anderson reached out to help support a mentor from Texas and how their grasp was true and steady. Not only have they mentored young people but they have also mentored seasoned mentors in need of inspiration and understanding.

The thoughts and prayers that I send to the family and all of those touched by this loss - are filled with sadness. They are also filled with respect for a life well lived.


Jane