Handsome Christmas wreaths, symbolic of human service, are now decorating the mantels of two homes in the Sanpete Valley.
The wreaths were presented to John Henrie Nielson, Manti, and Clair E. Rosenberg, Ephraim, by Ephraim Middle School as the highlight of the school's annual candlelight service.Principal Jim Peterson praised Nielson as being "an unconditional lover of mankind" who has over the years rendered unselfish service to individuals and his community.
Now retired, Nielson has been active in Scouting, was Manti City recorder and more recently Manti LDS Temple recorder. He is noted for his craftsmanship and as a master of improvization and communication," his citation read.
A retired J.C. Penny store manager, Rosenberg, who was a Snow College student body president, was cited for his contributions both in money and service to that institutions.
The nomination letter praised Rosenberg for his activities in behalf of Ephraim Senior Citizens and for his services to the lonely, the injured, and those in need.
"He's made our community a better place to live," Peterson said.
The candles to Nielson and Rosenberg were presented by the seven members of the graduating class who have maintained perfect 4.0 grade point averages during their middle school years - Michelle Barton, Amy Hintze, Haylee Maylett, Erin Rasmussen, Nanette Sorensen, Connor Thompson and Kristin White.
The program also included performances by the school's orchestra, choruses and band featuring both traditional and popular numbers.
It was the school's 52nd annual candelight service. The recipients are chosen by the faculty on the basis of public nominations and those chosen for the awards are not notified in advance but called from the audience.
"It's our way of saying "thank you" for largely unrecognized service," Peterson said.