Whitewater honours graduating students

Cobden -- Five young residents of Whitewater Region (WWR) were honoured at the June 19 meeting of Council with the township’s Outstanding Youth Award bursary.

This year’s recipients were presented with the award by Deputy-Mayor Cathy Regier as Councillor Mike Moore outlined the achievements for which they were being recognized:

· Xavier Gagnon of C.S.C Jeanne-Lajoie High School demonstrates a clear contribution to his community through volunteer work at community events such as the Beachburg Fair. Exhibiting a strong application to school leadership and athleticism as captain of many school sports teams including volleyball and basketball, Xavier also participates in his school’s arts and culture by helping with the technological requirements of school plays.

· Makenna Hawthorne of Fellowes High School demonstrates a strong participation as a young athlete in the region. By participating in athletics such as the Ottawa Valley Thunder Association and school sports teams, Makenna demonstrates a dedicated nature that has been applied both to community contributions at organizations such as the Beachburg Lions Club and expressing artistic endeavors at the Royal Canadian Legion.

· Alison Hyatt of Opeongo High School is a community-conscious individual who volunteers at organizations such as the Foresters Falls Athletic Association. Alison has played an influential part in both fundraising and maintenance efforts for the association. By demonstrating school leadership through her participation in her school’s peer mentorship program Link Crew, Alison has been a key figure in the organization of many school events such as pep rallies.

· Nolan Kenny of Bishop Smith Catholic High School has demonstrated significant contributions to the Westmeath Recreation Association and Pentecostal Church. In school, he demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities as a dedicated member of the student council. As a member of both cross country and track and field teams and an active participant in drama classes, Nolan demonstrates an active understanding of athleticism and arts and culture.

· Rachel Huckabone of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School is an active member of her community who volunteers at local community events such as at Douglas Frosty Fun. As the Spirit Minister on her school’s student council, Rachel assisted in planning activities for her school’s population that fostered school spirit and companionship. As a young athlete, Rachel participates in a variety of sports including varsity girls’ hockey, discus, and javelin throw.

The Whitewater Region Outstanding Youth Award honours graduating students who reside within the Township of Whitewater Region who demonstrate exemplary character and have exhibited the values of community contribution and school leadership by active participation in young athleticism and arts and culture.

Marie Zettler, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Eganville Leader