Front row: Katie O’Keefe and Michael Newton. Back row: Regis Rollins, Felix Flores, and John Siegel.

L.C. Bird High School was well represented at the 25th annual Chesterfield County Outstanding Youth Awards. Both their show choir and jazz band performed and neighboring Chesterfield Technical Center culinary students provided the food. Chesterfield County police officer and former resource officer from Bird, Keith Applewhite,  received the award for adults. Applewhite is a 20-year veteran of the police department and has spent much of his time working in gang prevention. He educates young people and adults about the dangers of gangs.

Five youths were also honored during the May 8 ceremony.Forty-seven youths and 12 adults were nominated for the awards, which recognize those who make significant contributions to their community.

Youth winners were:

Michael Newton, Matoaca High School — Newton is a member of the Phillips Volunteer Fire Department and devotes his free time to volunteering there. A certified emergency medical technician, Newton responds to calls and has taught students at Matoaca Elementary School about fire safety.

Regis Rollins, Matoaca High School — Rollins is a peer ambassador with the school’s Success program. He provides guidance to students who are struggling with school or personal obstacles.

Katie O’Keefe, Midlothian High School — O’Keefe has spent many years as a Meals on Wheels volunteer. She also has devoted more than 300 hours and raised more than $600,000 as a team captain for the Hunger Strike Bowl-A-Thon.

Felix Flores, Manchester High School — Flores is enrolled in Manchester’s Year 2 class, which enables participants to work with severely disabled students. He also serves as a peer ambassador in the school’s Success program, where older students mentor younger ones.

John Siegel, Midlothian High School — Siegel volunteers with Unique Kids, an organization for children with autism. He tutors children in math, reading, money management, and other life skills. Siegel also is a mentor in Midlothian’s Success program.

The ceremony also featured a presentation by the Meadowbrook High School JROTC. The awards are sponsored each year by the Youth Services Citizen Board, the Midlothian Kiwanis Club, and Chesterfield County Youth Planning and Development.

For more information about the Outstanding Youth Awards, call 796-7100.

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