Honorfest in Pikesville

Taking advantage of the cluster that Wellwood Elementary, Pikesville Middle and Pikesville High Schools make, the principals organized a joint honors ceremony for their scholars and to celebrate the success of the reading room of one of the "feeder" schools, Wellwood Elementary School. It was a sunny day, the first Monday in June, and visitors were escorted to the high school library, where a select group of students, parents, and community leaders gathered for this special ceremony.

Principal Mitzel welcomed the group and introduced Amy Warner, Executive Director of the Carson Scholars Fund who proceeded with a historical PowerPoint of the Fund. Starting with the 2010 scholar from Wellwood Elementary School Ori Ratner, and following with 2010 scholar Sam Friedman of Pikesville Middle, each made their case for the Carson Scholars, giving a personal perspective of their experiences. The final scholar speech was delivered by Daniel Adamson of Pikesville High School who expressed himself in an admirable fashion.

Candy Carson wondered how she could follow such eloquent speakers! She continued with the importance of reading and how vital it is for each of the students to prepare themselves to the utmost, in order to face the challenges of the world tomorrow.

After the educators involved in the process were acknowledged, the surprise followed. Former Pikesville High teachers, Arnold Potler and Phyllis Friedman were introduced as the strong supporters of education that they are. Without their visionary work and heartfelt generosity, along with that of Phyllis’ husband and law partner, Louis, the Reading Rooms and endowed scholarships would not exist. Louis and Phyllis were staunch proponents involved in the organization of the Ben Carson Reading Room Program from the very beginning, and indeed funded one of the very first Carson Reading Rooms. A special thanks goes out to all the kind-hearted supporters!