What's Happening in Lakeland, FL…

On May 8, the 41st Silver Garland Awards were held in Branscomb Memorial Auditorium at Florida Southern College.

Seniors from high schools all around Polk County were recognized for their volunteer hours, including tutoring and combating local hunger. The combined total was in the thousands.

According to Lenore Devore, editor of the Ledger, the Silver Garland has nothing to do with grades although many of the students receiving it are academic achievers. It highlights good deeds without taking into account how a student performs in their classes.

Out of the 4,000 students nominated, 11 received the honor for categories such as science, English, foreign language, art, communications, citizenship, athletics, mathematics, vocational technology, performing arts, and music.

In addition to a trophy, winners also received $1,000 from Lakeland Automall to help with continuing their education. The Detroit Tigers Foundation gave the runners-up $500 scholarships.

The CFO of the Lakeland Automall, Cory Neupauer, stated that the students are underappreciated for their work. He disclosed his excitement about them growing up as adults. Students expressed an array of positive emotions over their awards. Bartow High International Baccalaureate student Manning Chuor received the math award for his study aid. He said it was the best award he received in his high school career.

Photos from the ceremony would make good pictures in the Calendars of the winners’ high schools.

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