Submitted photoPictured with the Meridian High School state champion basketball team are Rep. Charles Young, left, Rep. Greg Snowden, Meridian Mayor Percy Bland and Rep. Michael Evans, right.

The Samuel Dale Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution honored outstanding students from local schools, two local adult volunteers and Vietnam Veterans at its 14th annual awards tea on Sunday.

The DAR Good Citizenship award is presented to the fifth grade student who exemplifies the qualities of honor, service, courage, leadership and patriotism. Students recognized were Hardin Hiatt, of Poplar Springs Elementary; Samiya Lewis, of Crestwood Elementary; Mallory Smith, of Lamar Elementary; Allison Shannon, of Southeast Middle School; and Travis Ross, of St. Patrick Catholic School. Each winner received a certificate, lapel pin and U.S. flag.

The DAR Good Citizen Award is presented to the high school senior who best exemplifies the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism. The three chosen students, Skylar Vance, Dunnam Shirley and Stephanie Smith, were awarded a certificate, lapel pin, U.S. flag and cash scholarship.

Vance is a senior at Clarkdale High School with a 4.1 GPA. She is serving as cheer captain of the Clarkdale Cheer Team. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Spanish Honor Society and was voted Homecoming Queen. She volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, Vacation Bible School, Children’s Church and performed in “Bethlehem Revisited” at her church. She plans to attend MCC, then transfer to Southern Mississippi and major in physical therapy.

Shirley is a senior at Southeast Lauderdale High School and has a GPA of 4.189. He is president of FCA, secretary of the Spanish Club, treasurer of the History Club and Senior Class Student Representative. He is a member of the Beta Club and Math and Science Team. He serves as the announcer at the school baseball/softball games and is active in 4-H. Dunnam plans to attend college and major in secondary education with emphasis of science or history.

Smith, a senior at Lamar High School, is overall winner of the DAR Good Citizen Award. With a GPA of 4.250, she also participates in Lady Raider basketball, cross country and varsity softball. She is a member of National Honor Society, president of FCA, treasurer of Mu Alpha Theta, co-editor of the school yearbook, member of Student Council, Beta Club and Spanish Honor Society. She participates in mission trips and Youth Praise Band at her church while holding the title of chaplain for the Dusty Social Service Club. She has been accepted to Ole Miss and will pursue a degree in physical therapy.

The Community Volunteer Award was given to Sandy Johnson, member of Central United Methodist Church, where she serves as president of the United Methodist Women. Carolyn Smith received the Community Involvement Award. Jerry Mason and Tom Johnson were recognized as Vietnam Veterans with a certificate, flag, lapel pin and heartfelt thanks for their service.

Also recognized were DAR members who had met membership milestones: Sallie Looper, 10 years membership; Tina Moore, 20 years membership; Janet Sinyard, 10 years membership coming in July; Elizabeth Kahlmus, 60 years membership coming in October.

MHS honored at capital

Rep. Charles Young presented the Meridian High School boys basketball team with House Resolution 116 on March 29 to commend the team upon winning the MHSAA Class 6A State Basketball Championship. The Wildcats boasted 30 wins and two losses this season.

Suzanne Marshall writes the Neighbors column for The Meridian Star. Submit items to editor@themeridianstar.com.