Commonwealth Scholarships go
to talented MHS grads

Montclair High School graduates Ellie Chestnut and Nick Whipple are the recipients of the 2006 Commonwealth Club Scholarship. The awards -- $500 grants awarded annually to both a female and male senior -- pay special tribute to concerned young adults whose community spirit and actions inspire others.

At Montclair, Ellie was a straight-A student, tri-captain of the Mounties' varsity softball team and Bloustein Scholar who also earned a National Merit commendation. She will pursue her interests in languages and international relations at Pomona College in California.

Nick, who played soccer and captained Montclair's tennis team, is considering studies in history and politics at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, where he also hopes to play varsity soccer.

Pomona and Wesleyan are among the premier liberal arts colleges in America.

Both Ellie and Nick have taken impressive strides in community involvement.

Last winter, for example, Nick co-directed a career workshop for youngsters aged 6-12, arranging for local residents with talents in many fields to conduct information and discussion sessions.

At Temple Ner Tamid in Montclair, Ellie was a teaching and community service assistant throughout her high school years. As a member of the Ner Tamid's Mitzvah Corps, she also spent substantial time working in a nursing home and with at-risk children.

The scholarships are awarded in memory of Mabel Womelsdorf, the Club's long time Manager who passed away in October 2004.

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On July 4, a large contingent of Commonwealth Club Members marched in the parade. Many also took part in decorating the float, pictured above.

The Club's 2006 parade entry improved on last year's second-place finish.