Students recognized with awards by VFW Auxiliary

David L. Dye, The Herald, Sharon, Pa.
·2 min read

May 15—HERMITAGE — Multiple students from throughout the Shenango Valley received a variety of patriotic-themed awards over the weekend, courtesy of a banquet hosted by the Hickory Auxiliary VFW Post 6166.

The students were recognized by the auxiliary during a special ceremony Saturday at the Hickory VFW Post 6166, said Beth Addicott, a patriotic instructor and hospital department chair with the auxiliary.

Those students included:

— Matthew Wible, a fifth grader at Delahunty Middle School in Hermitage, who won the Illustrating America Art Contest.

— Anna Logue, a 12th grader at Hickory High School in Hermitage, who won the Young American Creative Patriotic Art contest's 2D category.

— Luke Schneider, a 12th grader at West Middlesex Jr. Sr. High School, who won the Young American Creative Patriotic Art contest's 3D category.

— Michiah Lenzi, an 11th grader at Sharpsville Area High School, who won the Get Excited for the Red White and Blue singing contest.

— Monique Vincent, an 11th grader at Kennedy Catholic High School, who won the Voice of Democracy essay contest. Monique's award was received by teacher Ann Hofius on Vincent's behalf.

Aside from the awards presented for various contests, 11th grader Alaina Rhoades of Hickory High School received an award for her volunteer work alongside the auxiliary.

Addicott said Rhoades often volunteers with her at local retirement homes, where arts and crafts projects and holiday parties are organized for seniors — including veterans and non-veterans.

The students also received monetary prizes along with their certificates.

This year was the first time an award banquet was held, and Addicott said it was unique to have so many students from different school districts recognized all at once.

"I think it was great for the students to have their families with them, and we even had some teachers who were invited too," Addicott said.

Although located in Hermitage, Addicott said the Hickory VFW Post 6166 doesn't cater strictly to Hermitage students, and that submissions for contests can be received from any school district.

The Hickory VFW Post 6166 can also cooperate with other VFW posts on certain contests as-needed, Addicott said.

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