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Paynesville Press - November 27, 2002

Seniors honored with awards for service work

By Michael Jacobson

Seniors Adam Leyendecker and Susie Swyter have been honored for their community service by the local Lions Club. The Lions Club, a service organization, recognizes seniors at Paynesville Area High School for their service in school, in the community, and at church.

Seniors Adam Leyendecker and Susie Swyter "I am honored to be recognized by such an organization as the Lions Club," said Swyter, the daughter of Dennis and Carolyn Swyter, "and will enjoy working with their organization throughout November."

"I was very surprised," added Leyendecker, the son of Mark and Janelle Leyendecker. "I didn't even know that this award was there. I was also very glad that I got noticed for my works, and I was glad I got picked out of many people."

Seniors Adam Leyendecker and Susie Swyter have been honored for their community service by the local Lions Club.

Both feel volunteering is an important, rewarding thing to do. "I love to make people happy," said Leyendecker. "I love to see people smile, and there is a feeling of accomplishment."

"I enjoy helping and doing things for others," added Swyter. "I think there is a lot that can be done to improve the community. It's the little things that go unnoticed."

At school, Leyendecker is a peer helper and a pal for elementary students. He also sings in the concert choir and pops choir, plays football and competes in track and field, and is a member of the Letterwinner's Club.

At St. Louis Catholic Church, he belongs to the youth group and the youth choir. He teaches ninth grade confirmation, serves as a mentor, volunteered for the church's daycare, and worked on a Habitat for Humanity project.

He also works at Paynesville SuperValu.

At school, Swyter serves as a peer helper, as a math aide, as a pal for elementary students, and as a youth advisor to the school board. She sings in the concert choir and pops choir, takes part in drama productions, and writes for the school paper. She also has played basketball and softball and is a member of the Letterwinner's Club.

At Grace United Methodist Church, she is a youth ministry leader, a nursery helper, a Vacation Bible School teacher, and a Wednesday worship leader. She also belonged to On Call, a Christian music group, and worked as a church camp counselor in Wisconsin last summer.

She also works at Tuck's Cafe.

Seniors Hannah Felling and Ann Stalboerger were honored by the Lions Club in October.



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