Four local students were honored when Center Lodge No. 244, F&AM observed its annual Honesty and Integrity Awards Night.

After prayer and The Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag, Worshipful Master Terry Stewart thanked everyone for attending and then proceeded to recognize the honored students and their parents.

Each student had chosen someone to give a short introductory talk about them, beginning with Larry Page, who spoke on behalf of Leah Stogner, his niece.

Students honored by Center Lodge 244, F&AM at the annual Honesty and Integrity Awards Night are shown above, from left to right: Chase Holden, Leah Stogner, Center Lodge Worshipful Master Terry Stewart, Megan Passman and Clint Vernon. Each year the lodge honors outstanding students with this award. Advertisement

Leah’s Parents are Jimmy and Polly Thigpen.

The Rev. David Easterling,pastor of Pine First Baptist Church then spoke about Chase Holden, son of Ricky and Alicia Holden.

Megan Hope Passaro, daughter of Tony and Buffie Passaro had Ryan D. Courtney, a

previous recipient of the award, to speak for her.

Tom Pigott spoke for Jon Wesley “Clint” Vernon, son of Henry and Lorie Vernon.

Stewart introduced the guest speaker, Jackie Dale Thomas, director of Leadership and Developmental Student Activities at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond.

Thomas, an exceptional and gifted student leader talked to the students about the merits of being honest and that integrity was not an inherited trait, but it was earned

She gave several examples and life experiences of how students could apply honesty and integrity throughout their lives.

Stewart then presented each student with a gift and plaque from Center Lodge.

Sen. Ben Nevers sent the students a certificate from his office congratulating each on their achievement.

Stewart told the Students that as the future leaders of the community and state, He was honored to have them as this year’s recipients. Also in attendance was Washington Parish Sheriff Bobby Crowe .

The program was concluded with prayer.

Prior to the program and recognition of students, the evening began with a delicious meal of smoked Baby Back Ribs, smoked chicken, potato salad. baked beans, hot rolls, banana pudding, and iced tea was catered by George Seal.