Amelia Spidell named Strasburg Lions rose queen
Amelia Spidell was recently selected as the 2023 Lions Club rose queen. Spidell, a senior at Strasburg-Franklin High School, is the daughter of Tom and Veronica Spidell of Strasburg.
Spidell is a member of the National Honor Society, was a Buckeye Girls State delegate, and is a member of the Foreign Language Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Big Brothers Big Sisters, College Credit Plus program at Kent State Tuscarawas, and varsity cross country and softball teams. She also tutors elementary students, is a 2024 softball team captain and attends Uhrichsville Christian Fellowship Church.
“Throughout my years growing up in Strasburg, one thing that has always been important to me is being involved in the community. The Lions Club not only brings together the community, but also generously helps. When I was young, I participated in the Easter egg hunt and 5k race. The two events were great ways for me to spend time with my friends and be involved in a community gathering. Two years ago I volunteered at the Lions Club Car Show. Seeing people brought together to enjoy something they all loved was very special,” she said.
As rose queen, Spidell feels she can help serve and represent her community and continue to bring the community together.
Ada Richards, a senior and the daughter of Jimmy and Krissie Richards of Strasburg, was chosen as an attendant. She is a member of the National Honor Society, is currently ranked first in the 2024 senior class and will serve as the NHS vice president. She participates in the Hope Squad and scholar challenge and is a member of the softball and volleyball teams, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has served as captain on both the volleyball and softball teams. She also attends College Plus classes at Kent State Tuscarawas and attends Strasburg United Methodist Church.
“When I think of the Lions Club and its members, I think of good citizenship, service and improving the overall welfare of our small community. I embody these characteristics to the best of my ability at my age. I love getting my hands on community service projects and helping anyone in all ways, whether it is at school, church or just basic service projects. I enjoy my time spent there,” Richards said. “It is hard to do all the things I wish I could do to help my community, but doing little things now will help prepare me for later in life.”
The rose queen contest is open to all high school seniors residing in the Strasburg-Franklin Local School District including those enrolled in Buckeye Career Center or other accredited schools. Those entering are asked to write a 200-word essay describing why they want to be selected as rose queen. The queen receives the $500 Larry Jones Memorial Scholarship, and her attendant will receive a $100 scholarship.
Rose Day will be observed on Oct. 21. Roses are available for $20 per dozen.
