Hurley Education Foundation holds 15th annual inductee award ceremony

By ISABELLE KLEINSCHMIDT

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Hurley - The Hurley Education Foundation held its 15th annual Induction Award Ceremony on Saturday morning. The Foundation inducted five new members during the event.

The ceremony started with the color guard from Saxon's American Legion Post presenting the flags.

Helen Trojan and Arnie Kero accepted an award on behalf of their brother William Kero.

Kero was recognized for his "bravery and ultimate sacrifice for the country and our community." He was 23 when he lost his life in WWII. He was awarded a Purple Heart and the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The Saxon American Legion Mercier-Kero Post 371 was named in his honor.

Dr. John Haglund was present to accept his award. Haglund has traveled throughout the world and now lives in California.

"It is a great honor to be selected as a distinguished alumni," said Haglund. "Hurley has always held a special place in my heart and will continue to do so."

The next inductee was Dr. Thomas Bruneau. His three daughters were not able to attend the event so his sister Roxy Rasmuson accepted an award in his honor. "My brother was well-known in the community," said Rasmuson. We're all proud of him and I'm sure that he would be proud also."

Wayne and Bridgette Nasi were both given an award for their contributions to the school and community over the years.

"I want to thank the Hurley Education Foundation for the honor of being inducted to the Hall of Fame. There are so many graduates of Hurley who live or have lived in their communities to make their community for a better place," said Bridgette Nasi. "We are honored and humbled to accept this award."

Gilbert Endrizzi was the final inductee of the ceremony. Endrizzi was unable to attend the event, so his cousin Bernie Erspamer accepted the award on his behalf.

"My cousin would like to be here today but since he can't be, I'm happy to accept it on his behalf," said Erspamer. "If you ever get a chance to visit his home, he has enough archives to fill this room. There's so many things that he has done, thank you."

2015 Hurley graduate Felicia Herlevi then came up to give a speech on the benefits of the attending school in Hurley and the impact it has had on her life.

"I've come to realize that Hurley does everything in their power to ensure the success of their students," said Herlevi "I would like to thank you all for making that investment in my future, you won't be disappointed."