News
Club news
The Fine Arts Society met Jan. 20 at the studio of Florida wildlife artist Ernest Simmons, who shared his interest in wildlife from early childhood.
Having no formal training, Simmons learned to study, draw and photograph wildlife in its habitat. Volunteering as a wildlife rehabilitator gave him hands-on experience with injured seabirds and other Florida birds. In 1980, his portrait of pintail ducks in flight was chosen a winner in the Florida Duck Stamp Competition, making the 22-year-old the youngest artist ever to win a duck stamp contest in this country. He has been commissioned by individuals and by Florida National Parks; his paintings have raised money for scientific, educational, historical and visitor service programs. His works are exhibited in galleries and fine art shows throughout the southeastern United States and in a limited edition catalogue.
Lunch followed at the Living Room on Main Street, Dunedin.
• • •
Cadet Chief Petty Officer Connor Schmidt was presented the Sons of the American Revolution Good Citizenship Medal, Ribbon and certificate by James L. Gibson on behalf of the Clearwater Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. The ceremony took place Jan. 29 at the Annual United States Naval Sea Cadet Awards Banquet at the East Bay Country Club in Largo with more than 150 in attendance.
The criteria for this award is based on the cadet's good military and scholastic standing, and the cadet must have demonstrated a high degree of merit with respect to leadership qualities, military bearing and excellence in the performance of duties. In addition, the cadet must have the potential for greater leadership responsibilities and be recommended by the unit commanding officer.
Cadet Schmidt is a junior at Osceola High School with a dual enrollment at St. Petersburg College, where he has been awarded a full academic scholarship. He plans to make the military his career and will be starting the Academy process this summer.
• • •
Kiwanis honored two fifth- graders at Safety Harbor Elementary School with Student of the Month Awards.
Brandon Middaugh was selected by his art teacher Joleen Ross for his superior artistic talent and ability to be an excellent student. Brandon shows promise of having a successful future in art as well as being a fine citizen.
Sarah Billiris was chosen by her teacher Carol Carstensen. Sarah was recognized for singing and musical talents, as well as excellence in academics and other studies.
• • •
It was all in the Valentine spirit as the Kiwanis Breakfast Club lent a hand at Oakhurst Elementary on Feb. 11 during its Daddy-Daughter Dance. The event attracted more than 300 dads and their Valentine daughters for a night of music, games, pizza and cup cakes.
Several Kiwanis Breakfast Club members, including Ed Deering, Don Bitting, Bob Lima, Bob Hartland and President Kris Hartland, embellished the theme and volunteered with the refreshments, tickets and photo registration.
Loading...
