Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The Kosciusko County Soil and Water Conservation District hosted its 43rd annual meeting Tuesday in the Shrine Building at the Kosciusko County fairgrounds. Nearly 150 people were in attendance with 10 individuals receiving awards for wildlife, forestry and soil and conservation. County Commissioner Avis Gunter received the First Steward of Kosciusko County Award - a surprise presentation.
Jon Roberts, SWCD board chairman, and John Anglin, SWCD vice chairman, also were sworn in by Gunter as they took the oath of office as supervisors.
Guest speaker for the annual meeting was "American President Theodore Roosevelt." Actually, it was motivational speaker Keith McGough. In full costume and character, McGough spoke to the audience to inspire and motivate them to make a change in society.
"Last time I was in this region," he said, "the area was all stumps. You have your trees back."
He said the economy in his day was much less developed and people died of illnesses that are considered minor today.
"Thanks to modifications in science there are pills for everything," Roosevelt said. "People are dying today that have never looked better."
Roosevelt said two types of people exist today. Those who "strive to be comfortable" and those who "strive to bring some significance" in their lives.
"You've been given a great wealth," Roosevelt said. "Indeed, you've been chosen to bring us into the 21st century."
Roosevelt said individuals are here for a purpose. "Each of you has a unique gift - a talent."
Once the gift/talent is given to the community, color is added to life, Roosevelt said. He advised people to use life for a purpose.
"The true joy of life is being used for a purpose. I want you to think of yourself as being handed a splendid torch. Burn brightly as you pass it on to the next generation," Roosevelt said. "Carpe diem - seize the moment! Now is the time. You are the people. May God speed!"
