By Martha B. Jacob –
On Monday, March 6, the GFWC Ripley Women’s Club announced the winners of the Ripley Women’s Club Seventh Grade Essay Contest entitled, “My Ohio Hero.”
Two of the winners were from the RULH Middle School and included Maci Haitz who won first place and $25, second place went to Rileigh Bryant who took home $15.
The third place winner was Lily Fryman from St. Michael Catholic School who took home $10.
“We are glad these students entered this contest,” said Carol Stivers, essay chairperson. “We congratulate all these participant for their efforts. It was had to pick just one winner.”
Haitz, the winner of the event, read her essay aloud to members of the Ripley Womens club.
The essay read…
“A man who can push aside the bad thoughts and can succeed in anything he puts his mind to, my grandpa.
I picked my grandpa to be my Ohio Hero because he inspires me to not worry about things and that everything will be okay. He is very influential to my life.
My grandpa Johnny Haitz was born and raised in Ohio. He is a former national guard. He is also a diabetic so he has to go to the endocrinologist to get shots and medicine frequently. Just recently, we fount out he has cancer.
My grandpa has been on the farm all his life, so everyday he goes out and feeds the cattle and treats the crops. My Hero puts aside the fact that he is ill and it turns out the cancer is getting better. He inspires me to be who I am and not to worry or ever give up.
In conclusion, my grandpa influenced my life. My grandpa is my role model, he never relinquishes and he always works hard to succeed. He encourages me to do good in school and work hard at my goals. My grandpa is very special to me.”