It was a project two years in the making, but thanks to the Hafen Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization and the generosity of Tim Hafen, the school's new marquee was officially dedicated April 19.

"This is one of the prettiest schools, the layout and everything," Hafen said after pulling the ribbon off the sign with Nye County School District Superintendent Rob Roberts. "One of the things I am proudest of is everything that's been done at this school."

Principal Terry Owens explained to the student council members, parents, PTO volunteers and administrators on hand that the project had been abandoned two years earlier when a major sponsor pulled out.

Fortunately for the school, that's when Sam Sarandos and the rest of the organization stepped in.

"This little girl and her PTO is like a dog with a bone -- she never let go," Hafen said of Sarandos at the reception following the dedication.

In addition to a generous contribution from Hafen, the PTO hosted a number of events and fundraisers in order to resurrect the sign project and turn it in to a reality.

They had family days at Skate Zone, sold "candygrams" for Valentine's Day, and of course there was the Winter Dance.

"We're really impressed with what the PTO has done," Owens said. "And Mr. Hafen gives from the heart. He's been very good to us."

The brightly colored sign standing at the corner of Hafen Ranch and Kellogg Roads, is an efficient way to tell both parents and students about school happenings.

"It's something that when good things happen, we can tell the parents about it," Owens explained.

As an example, she pointed out the school has had its science fair going on for a couple of weeks, but it wasn't until the event was announced on the marquee that parents began asking about it.

The four-year-old Hafen PTO is still in need of new members willing to dedicate their time to help Hafen continue as a successful school.

If you are interested in joining, contact Sarandos at 775-751-3684.