Four local youths were recognized with Caught in the Act Awards at the June 17 Village Board meeting for showing kindness to others, selflessness, bravery, or community spirit.
The awards, presented by Deputy Mayor Jeannine Mayer, went to:
Lourdes Dawson, 13, was nominated by Ethel Resso, director of the Noah’s Ark Nursery School. Dawson volunteers at the school’s summer camp. Resso said Dawson is “an amazing young lady, which at such a young age, already goes above and beyond to give to her community.” Dawson is a member of the school Builders Club and has been a volunteer with the Saugerties Relay for Life, and is a member of the Saugerties Mum Festival committee.
“Need help with a Penny Social, or a church activity, Lourdes is there to help,” said Resso.
Tyler Keener, 10, was nominated for the award by Jeanne Kinns, his grandmother. She says of her grandson, “he is a helpful young gentleman who helps elderly people, opens their car doors, carries their bags for them, walks them to the door, and holds the doors open for them.”
Keener held an Easter egg hunt for five other children and put his own money in the eggs. Kinns said she attributes Keener’s actions to his membership in Boy Scouts. She called him “a hero and a superior role model who has been used as a mentor in school with troubled kids so they can learn from how he behaves.”
Lexis McCabe, 12, was nominated by teacher Char Fraske, who called the youngster “a complete package.”
Fraske said McCabe is a “bright, all-around outstanding individual who displays leadership and responsibility on a daily basis. She gives from her heart, and often puts others above herself.”
Jackson Baker, 11, was nominated by teacher Carole A. Kelder. She described the young man as “a kind student who exudes the qualities of selflessness and thoughtfulness.”
After Sandy swept through Saugerties, Baker traveled with his family to areas hard hit, and helped those affected by the storm. “He would return to school on Monday with hands that were so chafed by the concrete that they would crack and bleed,” Kelder said.
She said Jackson is “one of the most humble and compassionate” people she’s ever known.
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