CEO Gala a smash success

More than $4,500 was raised Tuesday night at the second annual Saline County CEO (Chief Executive Officer) Gala dinner and silent auction held at the Bonan Business Center in Harrisburg.

Dozens of area residents were treated to a social hour, chicken dinner from Pleasant Valley Catering, silent auction, a heads or tails fundraising game, and special acknowledgements.

The CEO program was designed to inspire young adults into creating and operating businesses that not only contribute to their future, but also to their community.

The program allows once-in-a-lifetime entrepreneurial opportunities to its students.

Cindy Mitchell serves as the group's facilitator. She is a retired educator, who is also a business owner. Her experiences in business inspired her to become invested in the community.

As a teacher, she helped to develop and implement a job shadowing program, which taught students business skills.

The CEO program equips high school seniors within the county with the tools and connections they need to thrive and succeed in the business world. Schools represented include: Eldorado, Harrisburg, and Carrier Mills. Galatia does not have a representative this year.