Members Honored Following Team Carwash Fundraiser
Written by Alicia Cox on May 30, 2003
The Gaelhawks' 3rd Annual Carwash Fundraiser was held May 30th at the Echo Hose Ambulance Station from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Students, parents, teachers, and engineers gathered together and washed over 200 cars. The carwash is one of the team?s largest fundraisers, second only to the Dinner and Auction. The team raised in excess of 00 and had fun in the process. Sights at the car wash included many soaking wet teenagers with hoses, sponges, and towels in hand, as well as members in the roadway encouraging passing vehicles to come get there cars washed. Throughout the event parents provided the car washers with coffee, soda, and doughnuts to keep them energized for the day.
The fundraiser was followed by the team?s annual picnic arranged and organized by Mrs. Nancy Szeker, team parent. Originally the event was to be held at Shelton?s South Bank Park, but due to inclement weather, it was held at the High School. Students provided salads, desserts, and drinks, while the team supplied the hot dogs and hamburgers, all of which made for an excellent picnic. While the students played basketball, football, and Frisbee in the gymnasium, the adults socialized and reflected on the year.
After the picnic an awards ceremony and brief meeting was held. Mr. Niski thanked everyone for their support while Mr. Schmecker reflected on the successful season. Students who had been actively involved on the team for two years received their varsity letter while 3rd year members received a bar. Claire Luckachina and Jesse Lesiw received the team Spirit Award and Alicia Cox was honored with the Unsung Hero Award for her efforts on behalf of the team. A new award was initiated this year called the Media Technology Award. This was presented to Matt Aylward while the Talon IV Award went to Dave Wickers. In the spirit of FIRST, the Gaelhawks presented the Founder?s Award to Mr. Steve Kline, of Firelight Media Group, for his continued efforts with the animation, website, and advancing other technologies for the team. Beginning last year, the volunteer engineers put together a scholarship fund for a graduating senior. The "hat was passed" once again this year and a 0 scholarship was presented to Dave Wickers, team captain.
The day ended with the announcement that Alicia Cox and Mike Persico were elected by the students as Senior Captains for 2004. Thus came to a close a productive day and another successful season for the Shelton High School Robotics Team!
