Thirteen Illinois high school students were recently awarded scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for their winning essays in our Lincolnland Legends contest. The essay contest culminated in an award ceremony at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield on May 6th, 2006. Through their essays, the students designated outstanding Illinoisans for the title of “Lincolnland Legend" based on their backgrounds in government or the military, current or former Illinois residency, and their standing as role models for youth.

The top essay in the state, written by Olha Popova of Elmwood Park High School earned her $5,000 in scholarship funds. Olha’s essay described Dr. Iouri Melnik’s efforts to advance democracy and freedom in Ukraine by rallying Ukrainian Americans to vote in their homeland’s 2004 elections. Dr. Melnik has a private medical practice in Chicago.

Thaddeus (Thad) Hawkins of Pinckneyville High School was awarded $3,000 in scholarship funds for his essay honoring Thomas A. Denton Sr. of Pinckneyville. Mr. Denton is a U.S. Marine Corp. veteran and Pearl Harbor survivor who also has been commended with the Purple Heart and numerous other medals.

Two students, Dennis (D.J.) Piehowski of Genoa-Kingston High School and Kayla Spangler of Cuba High School and Oakwood Academy Home School each received a $2,000 scholarship for their essays. D.J. commended Roger V. Foehringer, U.S. Army veteran of World War II and former P.O.W. for his “determination, love of his family, and love of his country.” Mr. Foehringer lives in Genoa, Illinois. Kayla’s Lincolnland Legends honoree wishes to remain anonymous.

Four students received $1,500 scholarships: Kari Kantor of Alan B. Shepard High School, Timothy (T. J.) Lane of Momence High School, Lindsey Peterson of Grayslake Central High School, and Abby Ladzinski of Putnam County High School.

Kari honored her former science teacher, Edward Guzdziol, (now Village President of Worth, Illinois) because, “he taught us not only about science, but also about growing up and pursuing dreams.”

Timothy selected Colonel James H. Kasler, U.S. Air Force veteran of Vietnam, Korea, and World War II, former P.O.W., and flying ace. Colonel Kasler, a resident of Momence, was praised for his “…honor and loyalty to his country as well as his bravery, commitment, and strength as an individual.”

Lindsey commended Barack Obama, Senator for Illinois, for “his ability to personally connect to the average person, his moral standing in the nation, and the ability to display the very same American Dream that he works so hard to support.”

Abby recognized the many accomplishments and contributions of Walter Durley Boyle, former State’s Attorney from 1936 through 1976 and currently a partner at Boyle and Bolin Law Firm in Hennepin, Illinois. According to Abby, Mr. Boyle “… is a strong individual who shows that you can accomplish anything in life if you just apply yourself.”

The following students’ essays earned them $1,000 scholarships:

Kelsey Schwider (Alan B. Shepard High School) honored U.S Air Force veteran, Fred McDonald. Mr. McDonald was a member of the famous Jolly Roger bomber unit during World War II.

Kelly Kennedy (Lake Park High School) recognized State Representative Roger Jenisch for, “…his tireless efforts on behalf of the best interests of his district and Illinois.”

Ashley Boes (Oakland High School) commended State Representative Chapin Rose, for his work to address the problems of drug abuse and methamphetamine production in Illinois.

Felicia Timmermann (Central Community High School in Breese) selected Congressman John Shimkus because he “…is a man who strives to work, give back, and strengthen our community.”

AXA is the Title Sponsor of Lincolnland Legends