Cindy Magelky retires from DARE

Last Thursday was a day not only of celebration for fifth graders at Thermopolis Middle School who completed the DARE program, but the last ceremony to be presented by long-time program coordinator, Cindy Magelky.

Magelky began her career after graduation from college as a teacher, teaching music in the school district for many years.

A change in careers brought her to the Hot Springs County Sheriff's Department.

Five years after Magelky started with the county, then sheriff DeLloyd Quarberg heard of a new program being developed that would be a proactive measure against children using drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Of course Magelky and her background in education were a perfect fit for the new DARE program.

Twenty-seven years later, she stood at the podium in the auditorium on Thursday and graduated her final class of DARE students.

"I'm thankful for all the support from family, staff and students throughout the years," Magelky said. "I am so very proud of them all."