MWAH! Performing Arts Troupe members (from left) Rachel Plasch, Jacob Metoyer, and Taylor Oechsel focus on Chad Sype during a song 'Born This Way' as part of the troupe's issues–oriented presentation on March 10 at Erie High School. Chad's message was that no–one chooses to be born, but that each of us can choose how we live.

Later, five students from nearby Prophetstown High School were recognized as 'heroes' for their choices during and immediately following a massive fire in their downtown last July 15th. They chose to cross the 'do not enter' tape and enter several of the burning buildings to save historic documents and other items.

Thirty volunteer fire departments responded to the blaze, which destroyed eight buildings and damaged two others.

The fire was started by two boys, ages 12 and 16, who sneaked out of their father's home about 2:00 a.m. This past January the 12–year–old was sentenced to five years of probation, the most that could be allowed because of his age. The 16–year–old has pleaded guilty to one count of arson and will be sentenced on April 22nd.

Also recognized during the MWAH! (Messages Which Are Hopeful!) presentation was Jane Keag, who founded and has maintained the Erie ambulance service for the past 20 years and who also assisted during the fire in her neighboring town.
(photo by Scott Harrington of Photography by Harrington)