About The Award
The Freedom torch Award is an honor bestowed to one resident of Sedalia for his/her service to the community, particularly in ways that demonstrate self-responsibility and emphasize personal freedom.
The Awards are an initiative taken by the Sedalia Democrat who is solely responsible for organizing the event from inviting nominations to judging.
Nominees In 2009
NOMINEES:
1. Betty Blackwell is a volunteer for Bothwell Regional Health Center’s and an active member of First Christian Church, the Business and Professional Women’s organization, Helen G. Steele Music Club and Sedalia Society. She has served as past president and campaign chairwoman for the Sedalia-Pettis County United Way, and past president of the Salvation Army. Blackwell has been an administrative assistant to the superintendent of Sedalia schools, the Sedalia mayor and city administrator, and president of State Fair Community College
Nominees In 2008
NOMINEES:
Judy Haushahn
Barbara Rohr
Tim Mosier
Kristin Allcorn
The Rev. Vince Hoying
Jo Colvin
Maynard Bill Jones
Morton
Roger Garlich
Recipients In 2009
Carol McMillin was chosen as the winner of the 2009 Freedom Torch Award. McMillin is the toy coordinator, or head elf, of the Community Santa Campaign. She also is president of the Women’s Service League; co-chairwoman of Camp Blue Sky, a week-long arts camp for youth; a member of arts boards at State Fair Community College; and is a “parent” with the SFCC athletic booster club’s “adopt a player” program. McMillin retired from professional work and began volunteering full time about five years ago.
Recipients In 2008
Ron Ditzfeld received the first Freedom Torch Award from The Sedalia Democrat.
Ditzfeld, is a businessman and owns and operates Ditzfeld Transfer, has a long history of service to Sedalia in an manner that reaches many segments of the community
History Of The Awards
The Freedom Torch Award is still pretty young. It was first given out in 2008. Ron Ditzfeld was the first winner of these awards. He was nominated with 8 others.