This is the third year the Paynesville Area Lions Club has initiated a program to honor and recognize seniors in high school who have demonstrated outstanding character during their school career by offering their time for the benefit of others.This volunteer service is consistent with the values of the Lions Club. They believe it's important to encourage and recognize that spirit. Eight students will be selected this year for the award.
The October recipients of the award are Tiffany Rausch and Joe Halvorson.
Rausch is the daughter of Kevin and Pat Rausch. She is a peer tutor, math aide, Target Leadership member, Camp Friendship volunteer, member of the Youth Advisory Council, D.A.R.E. mentor, Special Olympic volunteer, middle school volunteer chaperone, National Honor Society member, student council secretary, member of St. Louis Catholic Church, Bible school helper, and helped raise funds for the National Youth Conference in St. Louis, Mo.
Rausch also participates in basketball, track, cross country, Letter club, concert and marching band, and helps coach youth basketball.
Halvorson is the son of Harold and Carol Halvorson. He is a peer tutor, peer helper, member of the National Honor Society, Letter club, and Target Leadership. He attended the Partners in Prevention conference, and competes in cross country and baseball.
Musically, Halvorson is a member of the school concert band, jazz band, and marching band. Outside of school he performs with On-Call, the Paynesville Lutheran Church Worship Band, sings in the senior choir at church, and provides special music.
Halvorson also does odds and end jobs where needed, such as feeding the hungry, and adopt-a-highway.