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How to be a champion

Jessica Montgomery had an important message this week for Panther Valley Elementary School students.

To deliver it, she utilized humor, yo yos, magic, student and teacher participation, but especially her sidekick "NED."Her message is that "there's a champion in every kid."NED is a lifesize, cardboard, cartoon character. It's also an acronym for, "Never give up, Encourage others, and Do your best."Montgomery, who uses only her first name at the assembly programs she puts on, conducted three such events at Panther Valley.She told a story about NED starting his day being uncooperative, but then apologizing upon realizing his behavior was the wrong way to act.The NED Show is presented by the All For Kidz Corporation.Jessica thrilled the youngsters with such yo yo antics as walk the dog, turning the string into what resembles the flag of England, creating a police officer's badge, and even simulating the Eiffel Tower with the toy.She was very eloquent in her delivery, using gestures and facial expressions which captivated the children.The program is to help students "learn the secrets in becoming a champion in school and in life," she said.It was brought to the elementary school as part of the district's anti-bullying efforts.Jessica told the young audience members, "Champions set their goals. They treat people awesome along the way. And they accomplish their goals.""Champions love to help people," she said.At the conclusion of her program, she interviewed several of the students and tested them on whether they remembered her message and the acronym of NED.

Hayley Hartung, a kindergarten student at Panther Valley Elementary School, is interviewed by Jessica Montgomery, who brought the NED program to the school for an assembly program. Montgomery made the balloon crown on Hartung's head.