Freedom / Democrat Torch Awards

Carol McMillin is Freedom Torch Award winner

by Sarah Nail

Her work is largely unnoticed by many. But Christmas morning for 1,200 Sedalia children is special because of the work and dedication of Carol McMillin.  McMillin, 63, was selected by The Sedalia Democrat as recipient of the 2009 Freedom Torch... Full story

Betty Blackwell: No rest for this retiree

By Courtney Hudson

  From volunteering at Bothwell Regional Health Center to serving on many organizations’ boards, Betty Blackwell spends most of her time helping others.   Blackwell, 72, of Sedalia, is retired now, but that does not mean she spends... Full story

Max Coble: Sedalia's helping hand

By Courtney Hudson

  After being diagnosed with cancer more than a year ago, Max Coble has been forced to slow down, but the volunteer work he has done in Sedalia still has an impact on people. Donnie Ditzfeld, of Sedalia, nominated Coble for the Freedom Torch Award... Full story

Judy Haushahn: A dog's best friend

By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

  Judy Haushahn has a passion for helping man’s best friend.   Haushahn, a finalist for the Freedom Torch Award for Community Service, started Seven Bells Sanctuary five years ago to help rescue dogs and place them in new homes.    “I... Full story

Sue Heckart: The spirit of generosity

By Matthew Steingraber

  Her donations will provide places for students to study medicine and give people a place to enjoy fine performing arts, but Sue Heckart does not relish attention for her generous contributions to the community.   Heckart, owner of the Heckart... Full story

Mary McLaughlin: A caring philosophy

By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

  Service is about the little things for Mary McLaughlin.   The Sedalia resident, who is active in many organizations around town, said her philosophy is to do things that connect the pieces — or people — together.   “I... Full story

Carol McMillin: Making wishes come true

By Sarah Nail

  She is the elf who helps give more than 1,000 children the kind of Christmas they’ve wished for, although her work is likely unknown to many.   Freedom Torch Award for Community Service finalist Carol McMillin, 63, coordinates the... Full story

Dennis Scholl: Leader, role model and mentor

By Matthew Steingraber

  Despite splitting his time among the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Sunrise Optimist organization, charitable fundraisers, his family and work, Dennis Scholl remains committed to guiding local youth with a relaxed patience.   Scholl, a finalist... Full story

Betty Wells: Comforting those who need it most

By Sarah Nail

  Her quilts have likely brought much comfort to others when they needed it the most.    Betty Wells, 87, a finalist for the 2009 Freedom Torch Award for community service, has spent her life sewing and giving quilts to others.   Hurricane... Full story

Finalists named for Freedom Torch Award

Sixteen were nominated, and eight made the final cut. A selection committee of Sedalia Democrat associates has chosen the finalists for the 2009 Freedom Torch Award for community service.  The award honors a person who has exhibited outstanding... Full story

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