Ben Milner chosen ambassador for car show to benefit youth rehab site
(Photos by Illinois Valley News)
From our weekly issue dated January 30, 2008
Kerby resident Ben Milner, 14, is ready to roll into his role as Ambassador at the 2008 Southern Oregon Rod & Custom Show.
Ben, an eighth-grader at Lorna Byrne Middle School (LBMS) in Cave Junction, has been selected as “Poster Boy” for the 31st annual show. Sponsored by Rogue Valley Street Rods, it’s a benefit for the Child Development & Rehabilitation Center (CDRC) of Oregon Health & Science University.
Due to lack of oxygen at birth, Ben has cerebral palsy. It causes a mild seizure disorder for which he takes medication, said his mother, Amy Milner. She and her husband, Mike, also have a daughter, Samantha, 11.
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As Ambassador for the car show in Central Point at Jackson County Expo, Ben will choose his favorite vehicle for a special award, and he’ll pick the winner of a raffle at the show. It will be held Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 16 and 17. Ben’s mom said that he likely will attend for his elite duties the 17th.
At LBMS, said Ben, he especially likes science class, and physical education. He “loves camping,” and is working toward completion of a Hunter Safety course. He uses a shooter’s chair.
Ben also is working toward his swimming advancement, and is a member of Boy Scout Troop 880. The busy youth, a First Class Scout, is nearing his completion of requirements for Star Scout rank. Troop 880 is sponsored by Glenn Morrison American Legion Post 70.
He’s looking forward to entering Illinois Valley High School as a freshman.
And he’s eager to serve as Ambassador to help the car club raise funds for CDRC. Ben periodically visits its facilities in Eugene and Medford, for which Rogue Valley Street Rods has raised $341,000 during the past 30 years, said George Bailey, president.
“I feel good about being chosen as Ambassador,” said Ben. The outgoing young man is known by many around the valley, and he’s noted for his smile, tenacity and winning personality.
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