Group supporting first responders awards scholarships

By AMY SHEWCHUK
SPARTA — Nine exemplary young people from families of first responders were awarded scholarships by the 200 Club of Sussex County at a ceremonial dinner at the Mohawk House on Tuesday.
“We went through 27 applications and these 9 students rose above and beyond,” said Tom Ryan, secretary and trustee of the 200 Club.
Ryan said there are two main reasons the club and its sponsors awarded scholarships.
“First, is recognition of service provided by our first responders," Ryan said. "And second is to help the future of the young people that continue to honor and serve their community."
Ryan thanked the club's sponsors; Franklin Mutual Insurance, the Knights of Columbus, Hudson Farms, and Steve Scro, owner of the Mohawk House.
Scro "has always been open, supportive and generous,” Ryan said.
Robert Osborne, a senior at High Point Regional High School was awarded the highest scholarship amount of $10,000, sponsored by the 200 Club and Franklin Mutual Insurance. Robert is ranked 11 in a class of 239 students and has maintained a 4.46 grade point average. He is a member of the National Honor Society, including the Math, History and Science National Honor Societies. He serves as his Class’s Vice President, is involved in the Student Council as well as wrestling, track and soccer. He will be attending Virginia Tech in the fall and has future plans to become an officer in the U.S. Army where he can be a part of the Corps of Engineers. Robert’s father is a police officer in Newton.
“I’m really honored that I was selected,” Osborn said, “This will really help me accomplish my goals.”
Other recipients included Brett Conrads, a 2014 graduate of Newton High School who currently attends Fairleigh Dickenson University and Kathleen Reidmiller, a senior at Newton High School. Each received a $1000 scholarship. Katherine Rozek, a sophomore at Hofstra University; Matthew Sunda, a senior at High Point Regional High School; Katharine Campion, a senior at Sparta High School and Caileen Vaughan, a homeschooled senior who previously attended Lenape Valley Regional High School ,received $1500 each.
Brandon Posey, a senior at Newton High School received a $1500 joint scholarship from the 200 Club and Knights of Columbus and Arielle Aigotti received a joint scholarship of $5000 from the 200 Club and Hudson Farm.
Founded in 1991, the 200 Club of Sussex County is a non-profit charitable organization that provides immediate financial assistance to the families of police, fire and emergency medical personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
“Typically within 48 hours we're on the immediate family's doorstep with a $10,000 check.” said Ryan. “We do not do any fundraising. Our aid and scholarships come solely from dedicated volunteers, membership dues and our generous sponsors.”
"Mohawk House is a proud partner of the 200 club. Excited and honored to host the awards ceremony," Scro said. "Coming from a family of law enforcement, it’s important for me to continue the tradition with my unconditional support and respect. Building and supporting the community is the foundation of fulfillment."
Ryan shared a quote from Vincent Ardolino, captain of a small fishing boat based on the Hudson River:
“I have one theory in life. I never want to say the words ‘I should have.’ If I do it and I fail, I tried. If I do it and succeed, better for me. I tell my children the same thing. Never go through life saying you should have. If you want to do something, you do it.”
For more information about the 200 Club and how you can help please visit www.200clubofsussexcounty.com or call 973-383-6699