Many years ago, I was very active in a terrific youth organization. It helped me prepare for many aspects of my life. I began public speaking in 4-H, right along with developing citizenship and leadership skills. I also showed cattle in 4-H first.

   Recently I was asked to photograph the elite group of youth being honored in the Blue Award Group. This award is chosen by judges for meeting all "Project Medal Qualification" criteria and who have exhibited sustained outstanding achievement in their project areas, with an emphasis on citizenship and leadership. I received this award twice way back in the day. Thanks to local area banks including Bank of Commerce, Chouteau; Bank of Commerce, Adair; Bank of Locust Grove; First Pryority Bank, Pryor; First State Bank of Porter, Locust Grove; Lakeside Bank of Salina; RCB Bank, Pryor; and Arvest, Pryor, individuals receive a portrait and 5x7 print by Kristy Troyer Photography.

   This project brought back a lot of memories and I honestly had a lot of fun with these students.     There were seven students picked for this award. From this award group, two outstanding individuals are selected for the Hall of Fame Award. This is the highest award in the county and is based on sustained outstanding achievement in project areas, as well as results of an interview process. The winner must have completed their sophomore year in high school to win this award. While students know they have qualified for the Blue Award Group and have their portraits made. The winners of the Hall of Fame are kept secret until the annual awards banquet. These winners are presented with a large canvas wrap from their portrait session.

   Congratulations for all your hard work!!