Fueling a Shining Star

From the beginnings of Komputers4Kids and through its evolution into HeliOS Project, our efforts have had some interesting and challenging situations. Often, we've been asked why we don't "publicize" the recipients of these computers and Internet access. The reason is simple if you give it some thought.

To do so would identify them to the world as "financially disadvantaged"

Of course, those kids have been our focus and for good reason. We've said so often.

The last thing I want to do is plaster their names and faces all over the Internet, thus identifying them as socially or financially challenged.

I personally, would be hot enough to hit with a blacksmith's hammer should someone do to that to me or any member of my family.

There have been times when it would have been all too true none the less. There is a more compelling reason however.

Our attorney has advised us not to...strictly for the reasons sited above. No good deed goes unpunished. The last thing we need is some opportunist screaming about how they were "humiliated" by our publishing their names and faces in a charity situation. Aside from that...it's simply a matter of consideration for someone's dignity.

We do however, seek out those who strive to be the best they can be. In their studies, in their social activities and in their personal lives, you can see that they will not accept mediocrity.

One such student is Amanda Rodriguez.

Amanda is far from the gum-popping, hair-twirling, cell-phone-grafted-to-her-ear teenager. The 16 year old daughter of David and Dee Rodriguez of Pflugerville Texas, Amanda attends Connally High School in the Pflugerville School District. She is active in an assortment of activities within her school and many look to her for her natural leadership and confidence.

That, unfortunately, is rare from this age bracket today...or so it would seem. Most of them can't remember to wear a belt.

The HeliOS Project intends to target one such student a month to receive a computer from us and I hope you will support our efforts to do so. While the disadvantaged need every break they can get, the kids that show acceptional/sustained grade averages and community involvement should be rewarded for their drive and foresight. Through our efforts, some will be.

This laptop was presented to Amanda in the name of the Linux Community via KC and Stephen McGaughey. Thank you KC and Stephen for providing the opportunity and the means to make this presentation happen.

Amanda Rodriguez is the first recipient of the HeliOS Project Shining Star Award for 2008. Her only weakness? We won't say but she did fall down one grade level past her high expectations last grade period...and no, we will not reward her for bringing that grade back up.

But we will send in a band of Ninja Linux Hackers during the darkest part of the night and put Windows Vista on her new laptop should she not do so.

All Righty Then...