From left to right, Logan Toney, Madison Tonic, Moriah Avery, Tyler Berberian, Jordan Blankenship, Ashey Jahed, Mignon Kim, Joshua Bell and CHS Principal Susan Johnson. Not pictured: Melanie Lippert and Brittany Purcell.

Prince Frederick, MD – The Optimist Club of Calvert-Prince Frederick continued a tradition that goes back 45 years. The local club has celebrated Youth Appreciation Week, a nearly 60-year program established by Optimist International. The purpose of the program is to recognize the area’s outstanding youngsters for their achievements in academics and extra-curricular activities and participation in out-of-school programs within the community.

Last month the Calvert County Commissioners declared Nov. 3 through 10 as “Youth Appreciation Week in Calvert County.”

With the assistance of guidance counselors from Calvert County’s four public high schools, as many as 10 seniors were recognized from each school.

The seniors from Calvert High School (CHS) this year are:

Moriah F. Avery, who has been recognized for academic achievement in journalism and plans to attend Temple University.

Joshua L. Bell, whose achievements include a four-year membership in the National Technical Honor Society and whose future plans include majoring in biochemistry at college.

Tyler L. Berberian, who has been involved with the Calvert Animal Welfare League and Patuxent Animal Welfare Society; and plans to study business at the College of Southern Maryland.

Jordan S. Blankenship, who has participated in cross country and track and whose future plans including studying criminal justice.

Ashley L. Jahed, who has been involved in music, sports and student government, with plans to study biochemistry and pursue a medical degree.

Mignon B. Kim, who has excelled in academics, foreign languages and orchestra with a goal of attending college and eventually earn a doctorate in pharmacy.

Melanie D. Lippert, who has earned many academic honors and played soccer, with hopes of studying ecology and evolutionary biology in college.

Brittany N. Purcell, who plays many sports, earned scholastic recognition and aims to major in education and math with a goal of becoming a teacher.

Logan J. Toney, who is a member of CHS’ Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps and Tae Kwon Do demonstration team; and plans a career in teaching.

Madison D. Tonic, who has earned numerous academic honors, plays volleyball and track; and plans to become a veterinarian.

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com