January Young Americans, as announced by the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce:
Name: Ally Hartzell
School: Lewisburg Area High
Parents: Scott and Judi Hartzell
Hometown: Lewisburg
My unique talent or hobby: Parelli Natural Horsemanship Student, an approach to horse training based on the study of equine psychology and the natural interaction and behavior of horses in the wild. The ultimate goal is a relationship with the horse based on understanding, communication and trust.
Among the leadership positions I have held: President of Student Council, 2011-2012; vice president of Student Council, 2010-2011; Student Council representative, 2009-2010; president of chamber and concert choirs, 2011-2012; vice president of chamber choir, 2010-2011.
Among my special achievements and awards: National Merit Scholarship semifinalist, 2012; The Daily Item "Super Student" 2010; distinguished honor roll, 2006-2011; National Honor Society, 2011; Spanish Honor Society, 2010; U.S. Equestrian Federation varsity-level athlete, 2010.
How I have given back to the community: Founder and president of Each Life Matters (www.eachlifematters.org) -- a nonprofit corporation helping animals in need; volunteer, Haven to Home Canine Rescue, spring 2009 to present; volunteer, T&D's Cats of the World, summer 2011 to present; Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 2010-2011; volunteer, Camp Horizon, for children with chronic dermatologic conditions, 2010-2011; Key Club, 2010-2012
My plans upon graduation: To attend the University of Pennsylvania as an undergraduate student, and later attend veterinary school.
Why I was selected to be a Young American: "Because I strive to achieve excellence in every aspect of life, and I truly want to make a difference."
What you should know about me: "My greatest dream is to live in a world in which animals are treated with the compassion that they deserve. I wish to become a veterinarian to make an impact in the lives of as many animals as possible."
Name: Kelly Cope
School: Danville Area High
Parents: Ralph and Kathaleen Cope
Hometown: Danville
My unique talent or hobby: American Red Cross instructor for CPR, first aid and AED.
Among the leadership positions I have held: Vice president for Spectrum Club
Among my special achievements and awards: Ironman Pride Award, Rotary Club student of the month, Daughters of the American Revolution's Good Citizen Award.
How I have given back to the community: American Red Cross volunteer, instructor. Teach community classes about CPR. First aid and AED; co-op working at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, in labor and delivery.
My plans upon graduation: "To go to Bloomsburg University for a bachelor's degree in nursing. I hopefully would like to become a nurse practitioner in the local community."
Why I was selected to be a Young American: "I am a good student and assist my community by volunteering with the red cross. I have a positive character and am a nice person. I take time to assist others."
Name: Brittany Baumert
School: Sunbury Christian Academy
Parents: Kevin and Sherri Baumert
Hometown: Dornsife
My unique talent or hobby: baking, four-wheeling, playing with my dogs
Among the leadership positions I have held: soccer captain
Among my special achievements and awards: distinguished honor roll, honor society, envirothon team
How I have given back to the community: missions work
My plans upon graduation: "Stay close to home and take online course to become a veterinary technician."
Why I was selected to be a Young American: "Grades, community service, work ethic."
What you should know about me: "Jesus Christ is my everything. He helps me to get through each day, and I could not live without Him in my life."
