Leslie Middle School was proud to host a visit from Salem City Councilor Sheryl Thomas on Friday, October 26, 2012. 

Councilor Thomas from Ward 6 represented the City of Salem in honoring the 15th Annual Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Week.

Councilor Thomas gave an inspirational talk to the entire school at the recognition assembly about standing up to bullying and not giving those who want to injure with their words or actions any of our energy to fuel their choices. She concluded by affirming all the students by having them repeat, “I am special,” and “I am somebody!”

Councilor Thomas read and presented the official signed proclamation by Mayor Anna Peterson on behalf of the City of Salem announcing the week of October 21–27, 2012, as the 15th Annual Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Week and to “encourage all citizens of Salem to join Hands & Hearts to unite as a family and a community to Pledge, both privately and publicly that, ‘I will not use my hands or my words for hurting myself or others.’”

Story and photo submitted by Leslie Counselor Pete Teller.