Carroll-Jo Daviess DAR recognizes citizen efforts

LANARK – Carroll Jo Daviess National Society Daughters of the American Revolution held its annual Recognition Day luncheon Feb. 17 at the Heritage Center in Lanark.

Fifteen high school seniors from Carroll, Jo Daviess and Stephenson County high schools were named DAR Good Citizens, picked by the schools for patriotism, leadership, responsibility and dependability.

Winners are Devin Koester from River Ridge; Elizabeth Ludwig from Galena; Bryce Platt from Stockton; Samuel Lange from East Dubuque; Rebecca Raab from Warren; Madelyn Cocagne from Scales Mound; Georgia James from Aquin; Jared Lee from Dakota; Kayla Niehaus from Pearl City; Emma Thompson from Freeport; Asa Lake from Lena-Winslow; Megan Litwiller from Milledgeville; Emily Denekas from Eastland; Emma Aljets from West Carroll; and Dylan Dietmeier from Orangeville. Each student received a certificate, pin and patriotic tote bag.

This year’s American History Essay contest topic was related to World War I. The contest is for students in fifth through eighth grades. Winners are Hannah Foster from Chadwick Junior High, in fifth grade. while Shelby Williams from West Carroll Middle School won in the sixth-grade category. Each student received a certificate, bronze medal and patriotic tote bag.

Williams also was the chapter winner in the Illinois State Organization DAR’s poster contest. This year’s theme was “What is Great About Our State,” related to Illinois’ bicentennial this year. Williams received a certificate and coloring book.

Frank O’Malley of Thomson was recognized for his patriotism by flying the U.S. flag. He received a certificate, flag desk set and patriotic tote bag. O’Malley also received a certificate and lapel pin for his military service during the Vietnam War.

The Excellence in Community Service Award was given to two women. Lois DeGarmo of Freeport was recognized for many years of volunteer work at the History Room at Freeport Public Library. Gretchen Wallender received the award for her extensive volunteer work with Pitter Patter Pantry, Lanark United Methodist Church and Carroll County Help Center. DeGarmo received a certificate, pin, patriotic tote bag and bumper sticker. Wallender will receive her award at a later date.

George Buss of Freeport portrayed Abraham Lincoln, and gave the Gettysburg Address.

Visit dar.org or email Gwen Smith, chapter regent, at gwenmsmith@hotmail.com or call her at 815-275-7362 for more information.