Morgan SUP Chapter inductions and recognitions

On Monday, the Morgan Chapter of the Sons of Utah Pioneers gathered for their monthly luncheon, catered by Larry’s Spring Chicken Inn. Annual business was conducted with Alan Turner, SUP Area Vice President, swearing in this year’s chapter board members including the 2023 SUP Chapter President Van Nelson. He is replacing outgoing president Howard Hansen. 

After the induction of new officers, the chapter recognized this year’s Morgan High School Pioneer Essay contest winners. All essays are submitted by Mrs. Gwen Romero’s English classes and ranked by a panel of five outside judges. There were more than 60 essays submitted this year. Romero, who was in attendance for the presentations, has been teaching at the high school for 27 years. She addressed the group expressing how important this contest is in helping her students research their ancestry. During this process, the students come to understand the values that helped their pioneer ancestors survive often very difficult challenges that came with pioneer life in the 1800s. She commented that most of the challenges we face today in the world have already been experienced by those who preceded us. She also reminded the chapter members of how important these awards and scholarships are in recognizing student academic accomplishments and supporting education in general. 

In this year’s essay contest, third place essay winner and taking home $100, was Chloee Clark, daughter of Bruce and Jennifer Clark. Second place finisher was Londyn Elmer, daughter of Phil and Becky Elmer receiving $200. The first-place essay was written by Isabella Lenthe, daughter of Mark and Shannon Lenthe. She received a $300 award. Isabella read her essay to the SUP members that told of the inspirational life and struggles of her third great grandmother, Eliza Parratt Rhees. Eliza immigrated in 1866 with her aunt and other Mormon pioneers from England to Utah. Congratulations to all the students on their outstanding essays.