Three American Legion Auxiliary staff celebrate 15 years at Girls State

By Libby Klamm

Mary Jane Scherschligt Scherschligt, Irene Hovorka and Cheryl Horvorka have each served 15 years at Girls State.

Cheryl is the director of Girls State. She attended Girls State when she was in high school and has been associated with the American Legion Auxiliary ever since.

She has been involved in the national level of ALA, but also connected with the state and district levels.

She has had many family members who have served in wars or are currently serving in the military. For that she said she is proud to be an American.

Her hope for this year was to achieve an attendance of 400 girls. She fell slightly short, but did have 390 girls in attendance this year. That’s 30 more than last year.

Cheryl loves being around the delegates of Girls State and enjoys getting to know some of the girls.

“They are amazing,” she said “The ladies act professional and courteous and are fun to be around.”

Throughout the years, she has learned everyone can always make opportunities such as Girls State better. They can also add events and speakers to make it new and exciting, she said.

Irene Hovorka, Cheryl’s mother, got involved in Girls State because her daughter asked her to join.  As the Girls State Registrar, she sends out packets and fills binders.

Irene loves every part of Girls State, but her favorite part is the inauguration.

“I can’t wait to see all the pretty formals,” Irene said.

Irene loves the flag, but also red, white and blue.

Scherschligt Scherschligt has been involved in the Auxiliary since 1963.

She is the secretary and treasurer of Girls State and is also in charge of the talent at Girls State.

Her favorite part about Girls State is when the talent is over because she is done with auditions.

“I feel bad for not picking people, but I want a variety for the girls,” she said.

Scherschligt worked in a bank for 44 years and likes to keep busy with the finances of Girls State.

The former treasurer contacted her because she knew Scherschligt would be able to do the job and enjoy it.

“I enjoy the people involved in Girls State,” Scherschligt said, “and I’ve made many friendships.”