001[Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Welcome to the 20125 Carmichaels Area High School Senior Night Awards Ceremony. My name is Jenna Panamindo and I'm the high school counselor. It has been my privilege to work closely with this exceptional group of seniors throughout the year. I can confidently say that they are each destined for great things beyond graduation. Before we begin, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the parents and family members here with us tonight. Your unwavering support over the years has been instrumental in helping our seniors reach this
002important milestone. To Mr. Morcraft, Mrs. Todd, our administration, schoolboard members, and dedicated staff, thank you for joining us this evening to celebrate the class of 2025. Your continued support means so much to our students and to our school community. A special thank you to Mrs. Dbecki for her guidance, dedication, and the time she has invested in our senior class over the years. And last, to our seniors, this is just the beginning of your journey. I have no doubt that each of you is capable of achieving incredible things. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember, no matter where you go or what you do, you will always have a home here. Once a mic, always a mic. We are honored to have several representatives from outside organizations joining us this evening to
003present awards. Thank you for taking the time to be here and for your continued investment in our students at Carmichaels. Your support means everything to them. We're going to begin this evening's awards with our superintendent, Mr. Fred Morcraft. [Applause] Thank you, Jenna, for that kind introduction. It's truly an honor to stand here today as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students. Awards Day is a special time to recognize not just achievement, but also the dedication, resilience, effort, and growth that each student has shown throughout the year. These moments reflect the commitment of all our families, the hard work of our staff, and most importantly, the perseverance of our students. I'm proud to help acknowledge your success. So, let's begin with the first set of awards. The and George Georgalis Taylor Scholarship. Anne George Alice Taylor
004was a 1947 graduate of Cumberland Township High School. Mrs. Taylor and her husband owned and operated a grocery store in the corner where Old Peon's furniture store, now Magic Bones, is located. In the early 90s, upon her death, her husband established the Andrew Alice Memorial Scholarship to be awarded to a welldeserving senior to help finance their future studies. This year's Andrew Dallas Taylor Scholarship recipient is AJ Donaldson. [Music] The Esther Hart scholarship. Esther Hart and her family were raised in Carmichaels. Her brother, Yumi Hart, was a teacher at Nullan Elementary School for 35 years. In 2011, Mrs. Hart passed away and was the last member of her immediate family. That September, her will was executed and and she was named the Carmichaels Area School District as a recipient of a portion of her estate. This
005scholarship was awarded to a well-deserving senior who plans to further his or her education. This year's Esther Hart scholarship recipient is Alexander Miller. The Christopher and Betty McKenzie Scholarship. The Christopher and Betty McKenzie Scholarship has been established by Christine McKenzie, a 1975 Carmichael's Area High School graduate who went on to receive a BS in education from the California University of Pennsylvania in 1979. The scholarship is given in memory of Christopher McKenzie who passed away in 1976 and Betty McKenzie who passed away in 2007. It is awarded to a well-deserving senior who demonstrates strength in in academics and extracurricular involvement and plans to further his or her education. This year's Christopher and Betty McKenzie scholarship recipient is Robbie Wilson Jones. [Applause] Roberto like what every morning for the past how many years been saying that to
006this morning. So congratulations all of you. And lastly, the Green County Chamber of Commerce scholarship. The Green County Chamber of Commerce established a scholarship program in 1991 to recognize one outstanding student from among the Green County high schools each year based on their accomplishments and contributions. This year, we are honored to announce that the 35th recipient of this prestigious award is a senior from Carmichael's area. That recipient is Jet. Welcome or I wish a warm congratulations to all of our seniors as they move on to college. Congratulations. Thank you. This year, First Federal Savings and Loans partnered with the Challenge Program to offer scholarships to our seniors in the areas of attendance, STEM, community service, academic improvement, and academic excellence. Here to present are Skyler Dickinson and Jen Lroski. Thank you. Um, hello everyone. My
007name is Skyler Dickinson. I'm the donor development manager for the challenge program and I'm so excited to be here with you. Um, first of all, I would like to congratulate all the awards recipients today. Um, especially the graduates of class of 2005. So, if you would give a round of applause. Um, next I'd like to introduce to you uh Jennifer Ljowski um from Carmeckles Area High School's business partner of First Federal Green County um who makes these awards possible. Thank you for being here with us today, Jennifer. Um your business partner, First Federal Green County, has sponsored the challenge program and Carmichels Area High School to help you develop the habits to succeed in your future. um their support makes these awards possible. These habits go further than just right here and winning $200. Um
008you have developed the skills needed to be successful in life. Um before we get to the cash, I want to give a huge shout out and thank you to the administration, teachers, and staff of Carmichael's Area High School. Your support and encouragement of all these students play a huge role in their success as well. Lesie, our challenge program award winners. Um we'll go head through the five award categories. First off, we have for attendance um Dayton Reynolds. All right, next up we have STEM. Um, Tucker Whitkey. Um, STEM is around us all the time. Most jobs today require a variation of science, technology, and mathematics. Um, congratulations, Tucker. Next up for community service, um, we have Ashton Bis. Community service essentially is giving back. Um so congratulations to you Ash. Next up we have academic
009improvement um Brandon Gekle. Academic improvement is growth. Employers look for people that want to continue to grow and improve. So, congratulations to you, Brandon. All right. And last but not least for academic excellence, we have Alexander Miller. academics excellence is essentially trying your best. So congratulations to you Alexander. All right, thank you all very much and congratulations again to everyone. Now to present the Lions Club boys of the month, Mr. Mr. Keith Gillis and Mr. Lee Watson. Good evening everybody. Uh the Carmichael's Lions Club has started a tradition that we continue of honoring boys of the month. So graduating seniors put in applications and then they are chosen. So we are going to recognize them tonight. For September we have Logan Willis. For October, we have Braen Christopher. For November, we have Carson Hilman. For
010December, we have Robert Wilson Jones. For January, we have Nathan Dersa. For February, we have AJ Donaldson. For March, we have Dayton Reynolds. For April, we have Jace DKI. And for May, we have Colin Anders. Huh? Um, we have one more award. The Lions Club actually reenacted the LEO club a couple years ago and we were able to start a scholarship where we give one of the LEO members a $1,500 onetime scholarship that they can use for whatever. And this year we'll all find out who it is when I open this envelope that Mr. Watson gave me tonight. So, our winner is Ashton Bass. Sorry. Thank you. Now, here to present the Women's Civic Club Girls of the Month, Mrs. Diane [Applause] Hover. I'm back. So again, I am Diane Cry, the current president of
011the GFWC Women's Civics Club of Carmichaels. I am here tonight to continue a long-standing tradition dating back to the 1970s and present to you the nine exceptional ladies that we have chosen as girl of the month. So we will begin with September, Miss Jersey Smith. [Applause] And again, ladies, just do the same thing that the boys did. October. Alexandria [Applause] Miller. November. Ava Smith. December Ali Jacobs. January, Ashton Bas February. Dusky, excuse me, dusky staggers. March Alen Linder. April Cameron Anderson and May Pacy Prep. I feel like I know Py personally. We've seen her a lot at the city. [Music] So, I am also here tonight to present our 2025 scholarship recipient. This is the 16th year that the Carmichels Women's Civic Club has been fortunate enough to provide a scholarship to a deserving graduate
012of Carmichael's area. This year's recipient is Mr. Aiden Bait. Heat. Heat. [Applause] With us tonight is Mr. Dave Calvario, executive director of the Community Foundation of Green County. He will be presenting seven scholarships this evening. Good evening. Uh with me tonight is Mr. and Mrs. uh Patty and Bob D. Um as Jenna said, I have a number of scholarships to present tonight. I just want to say thank you to Jenna for the work we've done together to uh get to this point and also the Carmichael School District for allowing me to come tonight. Class of 2025, congratulations. Parents, relatives, congratulations too as you celebrate this milestone and what lies ahead for you in in your in your future. Just a little bit about the Community Foundation of Green County. We currently have 51 scholarships for
013graduating Green County High School students. These scholarships exist because the families who have established these funds wish to give back to their community and honor or remember a loved one while helping students today achieve their goals and success in life through continuing education beyond high school. The first scholarship that I will present tonight is the Rocky Domen Memorial Scholarship. This was started at our foundation in 2008 by his parents Patty and Bob Domen. Their hope was to ensure that Rocky's memory will last forever while helping you, students of today, go to college and succeed. That would have made Rocky very proud. Rocky was a Green County boy, a 2000 graduate of Carichels High School. He was a standout athlete, awarded all county and all conference during his three years of varsity football and selected to
014the Whipio 4,000yard club for rushing. only one of four players uh in Green County to achieve that distinction at that time. But more than his athletic abilities, Rocky was a very giving and humble person. He was a team player working to make sure the team and his teammates excelled. His life was cut short by a gas drilling accident. This year, the Rocky Dona Memorial Scholarship is awarding two $1,000 scholarships for a senior graduating from any of the five Green County high schools to help them pursue higher education. The application criteria was for students who are not just students who are standout athletes of any sport, but who also demonstrate the qualities of a team player with a humble spirit. And on a personal note, uh when I worked at Wesburg College as a dean of
015students, I got to know Rocky uh during that first year. He was in attendance uh with a class that's called Fiat Lux, and I was Rocky's instructor for that. Uh Mrs. Dolman's going to say a few words now. [Music] For those of you who did not know Rocky, which there's many of you who probably did not, um, he was also the MVP player of the North South game, which many of you are probably familiar with that are athletes. Um, he played hard and he played with all of his heart. Um, Rocky had, um, such a humble spirit. Um, he was quiet, very quiet kid. And in fact, I had to start the school a year late because he he was a mommy's boy. He hung on mommy's legs. [Music] Um, it's really hard for me
016to stand up here. I'm sorry. Um, he was very close to John Manhart, his football coach, who was also the high school principal here. And, um, he was superintendent. Um when Rocky got out of college, um he worked with children who um had a lot of um disabilities and um one little boy in particular that he worked with, I won't say his name, was um from Jefferson and he was in a wheelchair. And so um the little boy was really close to Rocky. He loved kids. And um Rocky gave him the little boy was about 9 or 10 years old. He gave him one night um a lesson to do and he said, "What you have to do is um you have to write me a paragraph. If you had someone's shoes to walk in,
017whose shoes would you walk in?" And he said, "And it can't be your parents cuz everybody does that. They write something about their parents." And he said, "Okay, but Rocky, did you ever have to do that?" He said, "In fact, I did one time." And he said, "Well, who did you write about?" He said, "I wrote about my my coach, John Men." He said, "I loved him." He said, "I truly loved him." And he said, "I I loved him probably like you would love a father." He said, "He taught me respect. He taught me how to play with respect on the field. He taught me how to be humble. He taught me how to always always notice other people around me and to always always look after anyone that was around me, all of my
018teammates. And I always did and to always think about others, he said. And you never have to be ashamed to show your emotions. And Rocky never was. Never. And so whether John and I think John knows that and John truly loved Rocky too. So never be ashamed if you were up to show your emotions because Rocky never was. Um Rocky's sister died two years before him and I can remember when she did. He said I have to carry my sister. And I said no you don't. I said you you be with the family. And I can remember when he was walking out of the casket and he almost dropped her and he was crying. so hard. But never be afraid to show your emotions. And another short story about him was there was a woman
019Sarah uh Sarah Ruth. I don't know if any of you remember her or know her from here, but after he died, she called us and told us, you know, I used to call him on Friday nights and say, "Who's going to win the game, Rock?" And he'd say, "I don't know, Sarah." And he said, she would say, "Well, I'm going to bet on the game tonight, so Rock, let me know." and he would always stop to see her and ask her, "Hey, do you need something done? Do you need me to help you?" Because that's the type of kid he was. He was very humble, humble, and very helpful and anything he could do. And after he dies, the writer of the Green County Messenger years ago, he's an older fellow. He wrote a caption
020in the Green County Messenger, I still have the clipping about Rocky, of big writing that covered the front page. He wrote a story about who's who in Green County and about remember these people. That was before Rocky died. And he just put a short paragraph about a standout athlete, Rocky Don. Rocky had written him a letter personally and thanked him for remembering him and signed it. And he said, "Who does that these days? Who writes a letter or personally signs it for remembering them?" And he sent me the letter after Rocky died. I never knew Rocky did that, but that was the type of person he was. To those students here, always be humble, always be thankful, and always know that you will be remembered for that. And people will always be thankful for that.
021And always respect your parents. He always did. And I remember it was only like a couple weeks before he died. We were in the bedroom watching a movie and he had just come home from work and showered and he ran in and he jumped on our bed and I said, "What are you doing? You might be a little bit too big for this." He was in his boxers and he said, "No." He turned back and looked at at us and he said, "No, but I love you guys. Always tell your parents you love them and be safe and always think about what you're doing. And I wish all of you seniors that are graduating peace and happiness and great futures be God bless you all scholarships and Robert Wilson Jones. interest. The next scholarship is
022the Walter Samic third Memorial Scholarship. This was established in 2006 by Mrs. Samik's wife Deborah Conway. in order to provide a scholarship to an outstanding young person graduating from Carmichaels Area High School to pursue a post-secary education. Walter Semither, a lifelong late resident of Carmichaels, passed away in 2003. He graduated from Carmichaels High School shortly after graduation began working as a lineman for Virginia Electric and Power and later worked for Dukane Light at the Warick Mine. He retired from alligating power in 2003 after nearly 30 years. After his retirement, he operated his own company, SMS aerial lift. Waler was involved for many years with local community service organizations and the Carmichael School Board. He also served as a deacon at the Green Count Green Valley Presbyterian Church. The recipient of the 2025 Walter Samic Third
023Memorial Scholarship of $500 is Shane McNamera. Heat. Heat. [Music] The next scholarship is the Robert Scott Memorial Scholarship. This was established in 2014 by Mrs. Miss Thelma Scott to remember her brother Robert who taught physics and chemistry. This scholarship is awarded to a Green County student who is planning to attend a 4-year college university with a major in chemistry, mathematics, or physics. First preference is given to a Green County High School senior who is attend planning to attend Waysburg University. The recipient of the $1,000 Robert Scott scholarship this year is Aiden Bait. for the next scholarship. I would like to ask Mrs. Mona English to join me, please. The G. Robert English Memorial Scholarship was established at the community foundation 2023 by Mrs. English uh Bob Bob's wife and also his nephew Dr. Robert F.
024English to honor her husband and his uncle. Bob passed away in 2022. Born in Carmichaels, he was a 19449 graduate of Jefferson High School, a 1955 graduate of Wayneburg College, and earned his master's degree from WVU. Bob was a retired teacher and administrator serving the Jefferson Morgan School District for 31 years. He was an exceptional math teacher who also served as principal from 1971 to 77. Bob was a member of the Hulet Presbyterian Church for over 60 years where he served as treasurer, elder, and choir member. He was a member of the National Education Association, the Pennsylvania State Education Association, the Green County Association of School Retirees, and a former member of the board of directors of Cal Education Federal Credit Union. This scholarship is available for a graduating senior of Jefferson Morgan High School,
025first preference, and Carmichaels High School, second preference. who plans to pursue a 4-year degree at an accredited college university. The recipient of this year's scholarship in $1,000 is Robert Wilson Jones. The next scholarship is the Goldie Everly 4 scholarship. The Goldie Everly scholarship was established by her husband Eugene Everly to honor his wife who lost a courageous battle with cancer in 1992. Holy was born in Davistown and had been a lifelong resident of Green County. She was a 1945 graduate of Cumberland Township High School. In November of 59, she began working at the First National Bank of Carmichaels, now Community Bank, and retired from the bank as senior accounts representative. In August of 92, she was a member of various ranges uh here in Carmichaels and throughout the state and the national range and she
026served as lady assistant steward of both Carmichaels and Perona Grange. She was awarded the 1992 Granger of the Year award by the Carmichels Grange and in 1952 Goldie married her husband of 40 years, Eugene Everly. This year, the Goldie Everly 4H scholarship will provide two $2,000 scholarships to Green County students who have been actively participating in the Green County 4 program and have financial aid. The re the recipient uh one of the recipients this year is Robert Wilson Jones. The next scholarship is the Linda Kac memorial scholarship. This was established by Mr. Emma McKenzie and her wife Geette Costak Mckenzie, John and Patty Costak and Marian Costak in order in honor of her sister and daughter Linda Marie Costac. Linda was instrumental in founding women's sports here at Carmichaels High School. She procured the necessary
027credentials to establish the original women's softball team at Carmichels Area High School. Organized sports played a key role in determining Linda's chosen career path. As a physical therapist, she tirelessly served her patients with kindness, love, and expertise over a period of 19 years. Linda's infectuous smile, quick wit, and dedication to helping not only her patients, but everyone she came in contact with gave those around her a sense of joy and peace. Linda exemplified the essence of unconditional love, and her family is dedicated to continue her legacy. The Linda Memorial Linda Kak Memorial Scholarship will provide a scholarship to one or more senior female students graduating from Carmichels Area High School who have participated in one or more school district sponsored athletic programs during school to attend a 2-year or four-year college or university. The recipient
028of this year's Linda Costc Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 is Ashton Bavis. And this is the last community foundation scholarship. I'm going to ask uh Shaunie Kaiser and Tiffany Sims to come forward. The Lloyd Tag Ross Memorial Scholarship was estab established by Shaunie Kaiser and Tiffany Sims in in honor of their late father who passed away unexpectedly on July 8th of 2024. This is the first year this scholarship will be awarded. For over 10 years, he coached softball players in Green County. Throughout those 10 years, Tag was able to impact the girls' lives both on and off the softball field. Tag played baseball all through high school and then transitioned to slow pitch softball. Once his daughters were old enough to play softball, he took on the position of coach where he was
029able to continue his passion in the sport. The Lloyd Tagross Memorial Scholarship will provide a $1,000 scholarship to one senior female student graduating from Green County High School. be a v must be a varsity uh softball player and planning to pursue a post-secary degree certification at an accredited school or technical school. I'm going to ask Tiffany uh to come forward and say a few words. Hello everyone. Our dad had a love and passion for softball and it is an honor for us to be able to present a scholarship to someone who has the same passion as him. Thank you. And girls getting this scholarship is Dusky Styers. to the students who received those scholarships from community foundation. Make sure you read the two pieces of paper in there. Um, last one for me and it's
030the Rotary uh Club of Wingsburg. I'm here to present our Rotary Club service above self scholarship. RE International is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, leaders, and problem solvers who are working to create lasting change across the globe in our communities and in ourselves. Our members have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to serve world solve worldwide problems. For more than 110 years, Rotarians have acted on sustainable projects from literacy and peace to water and health. We are always working to better our world, which takes commitment and vision. Our motto, service above self, embodies our mission. In choosing this year's recipients, we look for students with ideals and actions reflecting that motto whose personal actions serve their communities and have priorities other than their own. I am proud to present the 2025 Rotary uh
031self above service above self scholarship uh to Ashton [Music] M. Thank you for your wishes. Here to present the Green County chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retiree Scholarship is Mrs. Charlene Bank. Some of you might remember me. I see some parents out there that I had in school a long time ago, but this graduating class, you were all in kindergarten my last year, and I had lunch with you every day. But I belong to a really exciting group for us. Uh school retirees from Green County. Uh our membership is made up of over 302 members and we're teachers, aids, uh bus drivers, administration. It's the whole gamut of what you see the adults working in the school system. And for the last eight years, we've been able to give out scholarships to each
032of the Green County schools as well as the CTC center. So this year, our recipient would like to award our our scholarship to is Linderman. [Music] Now, we would like to welcome Mr. Reed Long and Miss Paige Armstrong to present the John Thomas Scholarship. Hello all. We're here to present the 2025 Joy Thomas Memorial Scholarship to one of our student athletes. The scholarship was established in 2018 by Joy Thomas' guardian, Mary Lewis, her daughters Herby Long, Judy Armstrong, Crystal Crack, and John's dear friends. John and Cassie Menhart. John Thomas was a fixture in Carichels, often donating his time and talents to the Carmichels area school district, American Legion, and volunteer fire department to name a few. He knew our kids by name and cheered them on no matter the sport. Willing and eager to lend
033a helping hand without being asked and expecting nothing in return. This is what made Johnny Palmer a great man. So, as a tribute to our beloved Johnny, let each of us be a little more like him. Greet people with a smile, be a friend, help others, and be kind. The 2025 recipient of the John Thomas Scholarship goes to Nathan Reynolds. I would like to introduce Uce, Miss Carrie Scovic to present the Be Like Colby Scholarship. I'm not Carrie, but I am the daughter of Morgan. So, um, congratulations to the class of 2025. Uh, as you step into the future, remember that success isn't about the titles or the paychecks. It's about purpose, kindness, and the courage to keep going even when it's hard. Um, my name is Morgan. I'm the proud sister of Colby. Um,
034and I'm here to present the Bele Kobe Award. Um, this award was started in memory of my brother Kobe. Um, he was known for his kind heart, generous spirit, and unwavering positivity. Though he's no longer physically with us, his legacy lives on in the values he embodied in the lives he touched. This monetary award is given to a graduating senior who reflects those same qualities. Kindness, integrity, and a genuine care for others. It is our way of keeping a spirit alive and encouraging others to carry forward the same light into the world. We selected an anonymous committee within the school that has watched each and every one of you without even knowing. Um, we've asked each committee member to nominate a student who is compassionate, sticks up for the underdog, never judges a person on
035their appearance, but always resonates with their personality. Someone who treats everyone with kindness and respect despite any age difference. Someone who never hesitates to lend a helping hand just because they know it's the right thing to do. Someone who never seeks to stand in the limelight, but would rather share the light with others. Someone that you would be honored and proud to know. This monetary award being presented has nothing to do with academic success or extracurricular activities, but something just as important. It's as important for your character. There's no strings attached to this award. Um, the money can be used however the recipient chooses. My brother was never a college kid, so you can spend it on truck tires, you can use it on sheets, runs, whatever you should choose. Um, so here are some
036things that were said about this year's recipient. Um, this person looks out for everyone around them. They use their strength, maturity, and compassion to enrich the lives of everyone around them. They work very hard and have a never quit attitude. They have perseverance, compassion, and dedication. They have the biggest heart of anyone that I know. They're very generous and always willing to help others. They're always very humble. Their true blessing to have in the school. Being very selfless is one of their greatest traits. And this year's recipient is Mr. Michael. Here to present the rising star scholarship is Mrs. Kristen Boyhuffer. On behalf of Star Foundation, it is our honor to be here today to present the rising star senior scholarship. Last year, we proudly awarded two scholarships to deserving seniors from Carichel's area and
037center school district, which are the alma moers of our founders, Valerie Leana and Christy Roar. This year, we are pleased to share that Star Foundation has expanded its outreach. What began as two scholarships has grown into seven $500 awards, which includes each of the five Green County school districts as well as Best Center and Brownsville area. This expansion reflects our commitment to reaching more students and their families across the region, recognizing their hard work, perseverance, and their potential to shine in whatever path they pursue after graduation. It is our way of investing in the future one star at a time. Scholarship recipients were selected by a committee of five volunteers. All identifying information was removed from submitted materials prior to review and were assigned numbers for tracking purposes. Committee members individually reviewed and scored applicant
038submissions using a pointsbased system. The submission with the highest total score was selected as the scholarship winner. It is our pleasure to announce the recipient for the 2025 Rising Star Scholarship for Carmichael area is Ally Jacobs. Heat. Heat. Here to present the Michael E. Baylor Memorial Scholarship is Mrs. Tracy Baylor and Miss Shelby McCann. Just a quick Shelby couldn't be here with me tonight. This is a little tough. It's truly an honor to be here this evening surrounded by students, families, and community members to present a very special award in memory of my husband, Michael Baylor. I will get through this. I promise. Michael was the validictorian of the Cromary High School class of 1985. I still remember being in class with him. He was always the last one to turn in his exam. It
039was a bit of a joke amongst our classmates. But it was simply who he was. He did not rush through things. He cared deeply. He worked thoroughly and he always wanted to give his best. And above all, he loved to learn. That love of learning carried him through de or Washington and Jefferson College. I wanted to say WJS um the Pennsylvania College of Optometry and beyond. He pursued specialized training, served in leadership roles within within his profession. But more than his titles and accomplishment, what truly defined Michael was his commitment to helping others see not just with their eyes, but with clarity and compassion. This scholarship was created by me along with my daughters Chelsea and Shelby, Michael's stepdaughters. Together, we wanted to ensure that Michael's legacy lives on in the most meaningful way possible,
040supporting the dreams of a student like him who believe believes in the power of education, hard work, and putting in the hours to make their dreams come true. The first recipient of this scholarship will receive $1,000 a year up to a maximum of 10,000. Over the past few years, our family has had the opportunity to get to know and spend meaningful time with the recipient who reflects the values Michael lived every day. Courtesy, perseverance, and heart. This is more than financial support. It's a reflection of the kind of life he lived and the kind of future he believed in. The first annual Dr. Michael E. Zaylor Memorial Scholarship for Valadictorian is going to be awarded to Miss Ali Miller. We hope this award inspires to keep you learning, to work hard, to care deeply. Michael
041would be so proud knowing that his memory is helping to uplift the next generation. Thank you for allowing us to keep Michael's legacy alive, not only through your presence, but through your belief in the power of education. I would now like to introduce Mr. Tyler and Mrs. Bethany Tanner to present the Battle and Drive scholarship. Hello, my name is Bethany Tanner and it is with great pride and heartfelt appreciation that I stand before you today on behalf of the Battle of Thrive team. Today we are gathered not only to celebrate the incredible success of our second annual Battle of Pride Food Truck Festival, but also to honor a very special student from Carmel's Area High School. Thanks to the generosity, support, and participation of our community, this year's festival raised an incredible $6,000. These proceeds
042are more than just numbers. They represent the power of unity, compassion, and purpose. At the heart of our mission is to desire to uplift, empower, and invest in our future. That is why from these proceeds, we are deeply honored to award $1,000 through the Battle and Drive Award, a scholarship dedicated to recognizing strength, resilience, and the determination to thrive even in the face of adversity. This award is more than financial support. It is a symbol of recognition for a student who embodies the very spirit of battle and thrive. A student who has faced challenges with courage, who has demonstrated perseverance, and who is committed to making a positive impact in the world. to the recipient. We're inspired by your story. You remind us all that strength doesn't always roar. Sometimes it's the quiet determination to
043keep moving forward. We hope this fellowship helps support you on your journey ahead and reminds you that your community stands behind you. Together, we continue to battle, thrive, and build a better tomorrow, one student at a time. Congratulations to this year's award recipient, John Kramer. [Music] [Applause] Please welcome Mr. John Van Mater and Mr. Tony Sters present the Wesburg New Scholarship. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My name is John Daner. The gentleman to my left is Mr. Tony Stage. We both currently sit on the board of officers at the Williamsburg Moose Lodge 461. Mr. Staggers is our her president. Each year, the law offers an opportunity for a graduating senior for one of the five area high schools in Green County to earn a $1,000 one-time scholarship. The applicant must pick up an application, complete
044the application, write an essay, submit it to the lodge, or our administrator, excuse me, our administrator will verify that the family that the individual involved does indeed have a family member who is in good standing with the law. This year, it was a difficult decision. panel of three gentlemen sat in a room, read the applications. After about a lengthy discussion, they came out and said, "We can't get one." I said, "We can't get what?" "We can't get one." I said, "There's three of them." Nope. All three of us have the same. They had two. So, this evening, Mr. Stagger and I are here to present the new scholarship for $1,000 to Miss Dustin St. Now introducing Mr. Adam McMurray and Mr. Dave Lowry who we will be presenting the mining electromechanical maintenance association scholarship. The
045mining electro mechanical maintenance association, MIMA, is a trade organization that works to create a forum in which members including operators, vendors, and regulators can share new technology and best practices for the coal mining industry. For over 50 years, MIA has had held regular meetings with chapters in the tri-state area. One of the hallmarks is the scholarship program that has awarded hundreds of scholarships to students over the years. Currently, the scholarship is an $8,000 4-year award and we will be awarding 11 scholarships to students in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio, and have currently 30 students in the scholarship program. Ava Smith here is a well-deserving 2025 award winner. Also, has awarded additional funds to recipients to honor past key members of the organization. And AA has been chosen to receive an additional $2,000 award to honor
046Dan Anderson, a former leader and longtime MIA member who is key in expanding and running the scholarship [Music] program. Here to present the Central Green Scholarship Trust is Mr. Chris Bates. Good evening. I'm here tonight representing the Central Green Scholarship Trust, which is really kind of goofy because I've never taught Wayburg in my life. But this scholarship program was established in 2013 and was so successful that in 2017 they decided to include all Green County schools. Through the success of our yearly fundraiser, which is a trivia contest in October, we have given away $35,000 in scholarships and another $25,000 for local charities. This scholarship is awarded to the senior in each of the schools based on academics and community involvement. And this year's winner is Alexandria Miller. Mr. Patrick Taylor, a proud 1970 graduate of
047Carmichel Area High School and 1974 graduate of West Virginia University, established a scholarship as a tribute to the education and support he received here at Carmichaels. In appreciation of his roots, he is honored to award an annual scholarship to a Carmichael senior who is committed to continuing their education at West Virginia University. I'm honored to present this scholarship to Mr. You're doing Thank you everyone. Mr. Rebecki will now proceed with the academic recognition portion of our ceremony. Good evening. Before we move on to the recognition part, I'd like to take a moment and personally thank everyone who is here tonight to present scholarships. Thank you so much and congratulate our scholarship winners. Thank you. teachers with us tonight. She spent hours working with us today. Congratulations to the class of 2025. Tonight recognize the top
04810 for the class of 2025. These students overall grade point average range from a 4.421 to a 4.161. I'm going to name these students in alphabetical order, not numerical order. And when they come to the stage, if we can just um stay on stage with me and hold your applause until they're all here. Your your top 10 of class 2025 is Aston Basin Alexandria Casey Shaker A Smith Jersey Smith Dusky Stackers and Ji [Applause] Heat. Heat. You're top 10. And from this grouping, I'd like to now recognize your saludiatorum with a cumulus GPA of 4.375, Miss A Smith. And tonight's validictorian with killing GPA of 4.421, Alexandria Miller. Congratulations Tonight, I'd also like to recognize the only student in the senior class to have perfect attendance. To have perfect attendance, you must be in school
049every single day, all day long. No acceptance, no late, no leaving early, no anything. We have one special senior that accomplished that this year, Mr. Dane Reynolds. My next recognition is for some of the most dedicated students who have shown a great passion for the medical field. On any given day, you can find them in the hallway media center working through real world medical and trauma scenarios. They have given up countless weekends to go on ambulance runs and to obtain volunteer hours towards certification. Many of them have worked 12 and 16our shifts on the weekends. They all have passed their psycho motor exams and will obtain their certificates and have obtained their certificates for driving ambulance. While in a school setting is ending, they are not done yet as they will be taking their final
050project or certification exam over the next few weeks. I present to you the um EMT class of 2025. Ash, Aaron Bons, Senn Carson Hilson, Alsina, Lauren, Li, Bradley, A Smith, Jersey Smith, Dy Sters, Logan Willis, Jason Heat. Heat. I'm not sure. All right guys, congratulations. And before recognition, I have the ceremony because we have to recognize our varsity baseball players as they prepare to play championship this week. We stand Congratulations team making the championship together and making school history. I wish you both good luck this week and let's bring that championship home. Okay, before I um give out my award, I want to congratulate all of the class of 2025. This has been a good year. And I have one more thing to say to you as a whole. You have three more wakeups. It's
051official. When selecting an English student of the year, I am always looking for students that exhibit thoughtful and active participation, accountability when it comes to their assignments and grades, and a positive attitude. This student's leadership, humbleness, drive, intelligence, and determination will carry her wherever she wants to go in life. You are truly an inspiration, and I am proud to have had you as my student this year. Congratulations to Alli Miller. Heat. Heat. Good evening. This year's senior social studies award winner did a fantastic job in the classroom earning high marks in multiple AP and weighted classes. She is the president of the National Honor Society, class vice president, environment team captain, Spanish club president, and newspaper editor. She is also a member of SAD, student council, debate, academic league, Leo club, varsity softball, and has
052acted as a Bud Cook student advisor. After graduation, she plans to attend Washington Jefferson College, majoring in both political science and public policy with hopes of becoming an environmental deter. This year's senior social studies award winner is Ali. Next up is so uh I'm here to recognize our only senior bull club member, Ava Smith. Will you come forward? So, um Ava brought thoughtfulness, kindness, and curiosity to our club. as she turns the page into a new chapter of her own life. I want to share a quote from the Midnight Library by Matt Teddy. This is the book um um that is especially fitting for tonight. So, uh never underestimate the big importance of small things. You see, the thing is the real moments, the big moments, the important ones, they don't always announce themselves. Sometimes
053they're just a smile, a choice, a moment of kindness, a conversation in a book club. Ava, your presence in our club was one of those moments. Congratulations. We can't wait to see where your next chapter gets. So, I'm wearing four hats tonight, but So, I also want to recognize the library aids that have helped me throughout the year, the senior library aids. Uh, so if you can come up, we're just going to rapid fires. Cameron Lley, Nathan Dersa, Jacob Beans, Haley Whitby, Carson Hillsman, Zack Murphy, Lydia Reynolds, Brad, Colin Andrews, and I'm going to call David rounds up too because he was pretty much [Music] So, we used to make chocolate chip cookies in the library. Um, but we still got that shut down. But I want to give them one last chocolate chip cookie
054before they ask me. So when they signed up to be libraries, they probably thought they weren't going to have to do much. It was going to be an easy, but um they don't realize how important their presence is to the daily life of our library and our school. Uh they uh are the ones who keep the media center running smoothly. They screen phone calls. They manage the cafe. They check books in and out. They organize the shelves. So what may seem like small tasks added up to something much greater. They help create a space where students feel welcome. So they've been dependable, trustworthy, and genuinely appreciated. So as you move on to the new chapters, know that you've made a difference here. Thank you for everything. I wish you all the best in your next
055adventure. So, next up is the um the recognition of our new club, the investment club that we started this year in high school. Um Mr. Gillis, I think he's going to come up and help me a little bit. So, we are the facilitators. Um, the Forget Me All Fund and Community Foundation provided the opportunity for us to create this investment club. The students built the club's portfolio with the guidance uh and supervision of Joshua Dames, a financial adviser at Molinovich and Company in Razer. So, Mr. Dillison and I are facilitators. We meet monthly with m with Mr. Dames and Mr. Talio uh to discuss the club's portfolio explore coral finance investing and the lifelong value of financial literacy. So, uh, I'm going to pull everyone up, but Brad Christopher, uh, come on the Brady Christopher,
056Dayton Reynolds, Parker Huitt, 780, and Jason D. Okay, so Braden and Dave are the founding members of the club. They were the first to meet our donors last May, setting the tone for what the club would become. They didn't hesitate when I asked if they were willing to take on the challenge of spearheading the first ever investment club at Carmichaels and in the area. I think then in the fall we were lucky enough to have Parker 7 and Chase join the club and they go right into learning the principles of investing and becoming members. They took an important step toward understanding how to manage their own futures as they all made investment decisions for the club. These seniors have already shown that discipline is strength by being bold enough to take these first steps. They've
057not only embraced financial literacy, they've set an example for others to follow. So, congratulations and best wishes as you take your next steps. May your investments, both financial and personal, continue to grow. You may just recognize Mr. YouTube. Thank [Music] you. Okay, my last group is a big one. Okay, so I'll call you all up again. Uh, this is the esports team. Uh Carson Hillsman, Jay Stbecki, Bradley Shonfelt, Zack Murphy, Nathan Nursa, Dave Reynolds, Parker Hwitt, Jordan Watts, Colin Andrews, Aiden Bait, Robbie Wilson Jones, Logan Willis, Michael Oeski, Jacob Deans, John Harden, Andrew McMahon, and Johnny. So these are our seniors. They're 17. Crazy. Um, so today, so the these guys played um marble roles. I think that's the order that I called them in. There was no really um method that order, but uh
058the next group was the Rainbow Six Siege team. And the last group that I called was the Rocket League team. And the D1 Rocket League team played in Wsburg University today in the Wsburg University Spring Showdown. Um they took third place. Um so the only one here on that on that team but um on second day our last when they were in ninth grade they were they brought home a first place trophy great talent and today they competed against the whole I league unit. So they had we competition but they brought home third. So, ninth grade they came home with a trophy and senior year they came home with a trophy with and now Johnny uh also known as J C P five. Um his his rank is champion 3 grand champion one. He was
059selected to the PIA D1 Allstar team and he will be competing on June 1st. So wish him well too. So, I need to make one thing very clear. I'm not a gamer. I've never been a gamer. And yet, somehow I ended up as an esports coach. My vocabulary has grown a lot. I learned words like pain and discord and Twitch and maps. And today, there were a lot of GG's going around, which I learned that one too, which good. Um, so, uh, that was this, to be honest, you know, no gamer, but, um, my biggest contribution to the team, it wasn't strategy or gameplay tips. It was pizza, right? So, um, if there's one thing I could do well, it was make sure the team was well fed. And honestly, I wouldn't trade for anything.
060I feel like a grandma. I mean, he sports grandma for some reason. But um so I may have been the adult in the room, but these these guys are the leaders, the teachers, and the hardware esports program. So thank you for letting this very confused, very proud, very well coach be part of your story. I'm going to miss you more than me now. So, one more gift. Yes. I'll show you what it is. So, I'm sorry it was so long, but I sent them pizza every single time they play each their own pizza and it's just a big giant Heat. Heat. I think next up is ready. getting old classes now. So, I started with most of you in kindergarten as your art teacher and then in first grade as your art teacher and then
061I was lucky enough to move up here in high school with everyone. And I have a award for two special people who seem to find their home in my room and have a special place there whenever they need it. And I also would help if I can open my phone here. and a quote from Picasso. Every child is an artist. The problem is to remain an artist once they grow up. Most of us forget that we don't necessarily have to be professionals, that we just need to put our hearts into things to be an artist. and my two special awards for uh Lydia Reynolds for most dedicated senior in art and Kylie Glending Kylie is here today. Next up is Miss Haway with the mic station. So, first off, I didn't get the memo about
062putting your things on table. That's why I'm wearing all these bags. So, all right. I had a better intro for this, but then I read it and I got really emotional, so I just cut it. Um, with Works Nation Live, my students tend to fall into one of two categories. Filmers and editors. I gave these awards really fancy titles, but basically it's just filming awards, editing awards. Uh, the first two awards go to students who were always ready to pick up a camera and film whatever I needed, no questions asked. The first student showed up in my room last year out of the blue without even taking my introductory course. I was having a day and I'll admit I told him that I didn't think he was supposed to be there. Well, he more than
063made up for that conversation by taking three of my classes this year. Dave's going to read all these and uh the second student has spent the past 3 years bringing my visions to life, no matter how vague they were. Um this year, she made sure every single student was given the opportunity to be represented in senior video, and that level of care speaks volumes about her character. based on measurements. Now, on to the editing awards. This student might be the most naturally creative person I have ever met. She created countless graphics for me this year and brought every project she touched to life in such a unique way. I truly cannot wait to see what she creates next. Casey Cry. Another word goes to a student who started her journey with me by live streaming
064graduation ceremony her dad made her attend. Since then, she's grown into a talented editor and collaborator. Workshopping ideas with her has been one of my highlights this year. Ashton B. And finally, this student was constantly editing videos even if it wasn't cut. He spent last summer creating and editing original content alongside D. so that I have videos ready to go at the start of the school year. He's continuing his journey in the communication field at Williamsburg and I couldn't be more proud. Don't bring back. And now [Music] with my first award is for the highest achieving senior student in um on the pre-calculus final. This student worked extremely hard throughout the year, even when having to take some time out of class. She has always asked questions and wanted to understand the material when she
065had to miss. She proved that she did have her head wrapped around the material by earning this award as the highest achieving senior student for the final exam in pre-calculus. This student is Jaden's Jewel. My next award goes to the pre-calculus student who showed overall excellence for the entire year. Um, I believe this is a great tribute to how dedicated he is as a student. As a senior, it is very easy to get senioritis early on and this student really hung in there throughout the entire year. He always made sure to turn in all of his work um promptly and stay focused throughout the entire year. I truly believe this will serve him well in his college career and life. The overall excellence award for pre-calculus goes to Nathan Durst. [Music] My next two awards
066are for the students in calculus class. Um, this class is college credit and overall I've gotten to know these students over multiple years. They are all a great group of students who thrive to know the wise of mathematics and they challenge me to continue to push myself and my abilities. They have a special place in my heart and I will certainly miss each one of them. Before I begin these last two awards, I'd like to commend those students who did push themselves to take the highest level of mathematics here at Carmichaels. Keep pushing yourself and um people do notice that you go above and beyond the norm. My third award um is for the highest achieving student on the calculus final exam. This student proved that she retained the most information tested on the final.
067She worked many hours preparing and also coming in to ask questions leading up to the assessment. She always wanted to know why and even took every opportunity as a learning experience. These opportunities continued to give her the full picture of the course at hand. The award for the highest achieving student on the calculus final exam is Ashton Vas. And my final award um is the hardest working math student who has always strived for excellence. Uh, this recipient spent countless mornings, lunches, and afternoons in my classroom asking questions to help her completely understand and comprehend the material we were learning. No matter what, she had her assignments in on time or early and was always working ahead to make sure she fully understood what was being taught. She not only did this for this year, but
068in three other classes that I have taught her throughout her high school career. This work ethic will be one of the best qualities she takes to college and in her future career. I would like to present the hardest working math student who always strives for excellence to Ava Smith. for the merciful mic award. I'm sorry that Miss Miller could not be here tonight to honor our four seniors. You're stuck with me. I have co-sponsored Mercul Mike's with Morgan for the past two years and I told her I would gladly present the award on both of our behalfs. She has gifts you would like to personally present them at a later time, but tonight I will present them with a little gift from me. Merciful Mike is a club unlike any other. It's one of those
069organizations that takes personal courage to participate in, but it will leave your heart fulfilled in ways that is completely unexpected. One of the things we spoke of often in Merciful Mike was purpose. God has a purpose for all of us. We just need to seek his divine guidance. Tonight I bestow upon each of our four seniors a brass compass with a verse from Proverbs 3:es 5-6 engraved on the back. Fittingly, the compass's north points towards the Lord as he will guide you in all of your ways. I would hope that this compass reminds you of God's purpose for you in your lives. I'm excited for all that he has planned for you. And please don't let this compass just sit in a box or collect dust on your shelf. I hope that you would pass
070this down as a keepsake to your future son or daughter or to someone near and dear to your heart. These seniors have brought insight, inspiration, and a depth of heart to spiritual conversations that exceed their years. I am so so proud of them. Their fearless faith and earnestness to pray and read the scriptures were inspiring to me and others. Their presence will be missed but not forgotten. Thank you for sharing your faith with us. It is with great enthusiasm that I present to you AJ Donaldson, Carson Hilman, Michael Oeski, and Brandon Yel. Please come on. Sushi sushi. And this award is military service. Every student here is required to give back to the community through service hours. This particular student has gone above and beyond his community and has committed himself to serving his country.
071On April 15th, 2025, this student pledged his oath of enlistment in the United States Army National Guard. Without a JOTC program here in Carichels, it truly speaks value of this individual's character, inner strength, and fortitude to make the decision on his own. A few of his classmates have also expressed interest in joining the service. At no fault of their own, some are waiting for waivers, but he is the only one from his graduating class who has a contract of enlistment. He leaves for basic training on September 2nd, 2025. As veterans, Mr. Papal Archek and I feel strongly about supporting our youth who decide to join the military. Tonight, I present this student with a certificate acknowledging his confirmation of enlistment, a coin to commemorate the moment, and a monetary gift held by a reliable set
072of riding shoes. He's going to need them. It is with great honor I present to you Dylan Fischer. Heat. Heat. I would like to introduce Mr. Willis to talk about his blood donor scholarships. Our NHS president organizes four of four American Red Cross blood drives. Um throughout all of those blood drives, 100 units were collected, saving countless lives, and that was a um uh accumulated a $1,500 scholarship. That person is also the captain of our environment and had the opportunity uh to represent Green County in the 2025 PA state. and they place second in the state of Pennsylvania. So recognize On behalf of Mr. Bruce, I will present the graphic students of the year award to Casey CR. in place of Mr. B. I will be presenting the outstanding computer programming awards to Christopher and
073Nathan Dersa. On behalf of Mrs. Walker, I will be presenting the band director's award. This award is given annually to the student who throughout their tenure as a band member has exhibited commitment, dedication, endurance, musical growth and maturity, and pure enjoyment of music and performance. The individual receiving this award truly has met this criteria. She has grown musically over the years and has transformed from being simply a member of the ensemble to a wholesome, well-rounded musician. She is no longer the performer who depends on others, but instead has become the quiet leaders others look to. Her presence in the front row will truly be missed, but her influence and leadership will be evident for many years to come. This year's band award recipient is Kaye Biano. Okay, this concludes our um awards for the evening.
074Thank you all so much. We are on Friday.