Marshall County DAR award winners honored
The April meeting of the Tippecanoe River-wythougan Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution met April 13 at the Trinity United Methodist Church to honor county DAR award winners.
Chapter Regent Cheryl Ball presided. The opening Ritual was led by Chaplain, Anita Kopetski; and the Pledges and Creeds by Vice Regent, Naomi Podlesak. The students, parents and guidance counselors were guests of honor.
The Youth Citizenship Award was presented to Travis Barnhart by Jeannine Klotz, chair of the committee. This award began as a tradition with the Tippecanoe River Chapter of Bourbon and has continued since the merger of the Bourbon and Plymouth Chapters in 1989. Two Triton 8th grade students who fulfill the qualities of honor, service to their school and community, courage, leadership and patriotism receive the award. Miss Rory Heckaman was also a recipient this year but was unable to attend the ceremony.
The Good Citizen Contest began in 1934 by the National Society. This program recognizes outstanding high school seniors who exhibit qualities of good citizens in their homes, schools, and communities. The following qualities are required to be selected: dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Each student must also write an essay. Linda Overmyer, chair of the contest, presented awards to Ariana Petz of Argos, Joshua Havron of Culver; and Leyton Czarnecki of Laville. Not in attendance were Nancy Garcia Pena of Plymouth, Kelsey Lawmaster of Bremen, Skyler Hooten of John Glenn; and Jaelyn Bules of Triton. The first place winner Kelsey Lawmaster received a $200 award and Jaelyn Bules received $75 as runner-up. All other students received a monetary award for participation.
The first and second place Good Citizen Award Essays were read to the group by DAR member Heather Cortebeeck.
The chapter also sponsors the Excellence in History DAR Award for Lincoln Jr. High 8th grade students who excel in the study of American history. This award is presented to the students during the May Awards Program.
The next chapter meeting will be May 11 at the Meeting room of the Marshall County Museum.