Patriotism and good citizenship
Courtesy photo Taylor Riley, a graduating senior and valedictorian of Timberlake High School, will be honored at the school’s spring assembly tonight for winning the Daughters of the American Revolution Lt. George Farragut Chapter’s Good Citizen Essay Contest.
By DEVIN WEEKS
Staff Writer
Through his written words, Taylor Riley has conveyed an understanding of how America has inspired other countries throughout its history.
Through his actions, the Timberlake Senior High School valedictorian has shown that he knows a country's good global citizenship starts with individuals willing to do their part in their local communities.
"I’m very proud of our country and all of our freedoms," Taylor said. "I know we're a privileged country compared to other nations out there."
Taylor is an Eagle Scout, a leader in his school and church, an entrepreneur and he's constantly working to better the lives of others.
He is also the winner of the Daughters of the American Revolution Lt. George Farragut Chapter's annual Good Citizen Essay Contest, for which he will be honored this evening in a ceremony at Timberlake.
"It's a wonderful way to recognize outstanding young people that exhibit good qualities in their homes and schools in their communities," said Marilyn Swanson, chair of the DAR Good Citizens Committee.
Taylor submitted his essay last fall. Titled "America Advancing the Cause of Freedom in the World," he wrote about his nation's battles for civil rights and independence from the shot heard around the world to the election of America's first black president, Barack Obama.
He said he took a historical approach because of his experience in an advanced placement history class the year before.
"The cause of freedom continues to unravel and redefine itself with the changing traditional views of equality for humans worldwide," his essay concluded. "America’s influence and example of liberty affects the advance of freedom as the nation stands as a model of individuals reaching their highest potentials despite their characteristics."
During the spring assembly at Timberlake at 5:30 this evening, Taylor will receive a certificate signed by DAR President General Ann Turner Dillon, a pin, a wallet card and a monetary gift.
"I'm very appreciative of the award and I know it will help in my future endeavors in relieving a financial burden with school," said Taylor, who plans to attend Brigham Young University. "I'm very grateful for DAR's commitment to the program and all they do for their community and students like me."