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"Women Breaking Barriers" Some of Amelia Earhart’s most obvious traits included courage, determination and passion — characteristics that led her to a record-setting and legendary career in aviation. On July 18, the 13th annual Amelia Earhart Festival will honor and learn from women with those same personal traits as part of the “Women Breaking Barriers” symposium and Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award Luncheon in Atchison, Kan. Maj. Nicole M.E. Malachowski, retired Army Master Sgt. Cheryl Stearns and successful businesswomen Mary Carol Garrity will serve on this year’s panel, which will be moderated by Maria Antonia of KMBC Channel 9. The public is invited to attend the symposium, which is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18 at the O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium on the campus of Benedictine College, 1020 N. 2nd St. in Atchison. “I am so impressed with the quality of individuals who agree to be a part of our panel,” said festival coordinator Jacque Pregont. “There is so much to learn from these amazing women. It is an honor to be able to listen to their stories.” Malachowski, a decorated Air Force pilot, will receive the 2009 Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award at the award luncheon at 12:30 p.m. on July 18 at The Café at Benedictine College. Tickets are $15 for the luncheon and reservations are requested by July 10. Please call 800-234-1854 to reserve a seat. “We’re very excited to welcome Nicole back to Atchison,” said Jacque Pregont, who added that Malachowski has previously been honored at the International Forest of Friendship Celebration. “She has truly broken through some tough barriers in her life and exemplifies that Amelia spirit of pushing forward to accomplish great things.” The panel discussion is inspired by Amelia Earhart’s perseverance, dreams and dedication to personal goals. The women taking part in the discussion this year have all achieved success and crossed hurdles along the way. They will discuss the character traits of women who break barriers as they pursue dreams. “Allowing these women who have accomplished so much to share their stories serves as such an inspiration to women everywhere,” Pregont said. “All of us, young and old, can aspire to do something that can make a difference in the lives of others. These women prove it can be done! MEET THE PANELISTS MAJ. NICOLE MALACHOWSKI / CHERYL STEARNS / MARY CAROL GARRITY / MARIA ANTONIA |