Youth Appreciation: Henry George

Covering his bases

Henry George loves baseball; he has played the sport since he was 4 years old and shows no signs of striking out as he gets older.

But this 11-year-old is an all-star both on and off the playing field.

Henry, a fifth-grader at St. Nicholas School, Ninth and Pierce streets, is an enthusiastic student who strives to stay at the top of his class. His favorite subject is language arts and, according to his teachers, he is a creative writer with exceptional grammar and vocabulary skills.

The youth has earned perfect attendance certificates, was student of the month last year and received St. Nicholas’ spelling achievement award. Outside of school, he was voted the best all-around player at the Marzano Baseball Academy in 2001.

Learning from retired pro baseball player John Marzano was a great experience for Henry, who hopes to be a major-leaguer himself someday.

But the student, of 10th and Federal streets, has other professional options. He could become an attorney like his uncle, Gregory Pagano. Henry says he goes to court with his uncle whenever he can.

The youth is sure to be a hit in whatever career he eventually chooses, according to his teacher, Joyce Ziemba.

"Henry possesses the educational skills that you would love every student to have," she says. "He is eager to participate in all classroom activities and the quality of all his work is exceptional. He is a cooperative and alert fifth-grader who completes his work quickly and accurately. It is a real pleasure to work with such a conscientious, well-mannered child."

Henry George will receive a $150 savings bond. The Review has a sufficient amount of nominations for the remainder of the school year, so subsequent nominees will be featured next fall. If you would like to nominate a student (first through 12th grades), call 215-336-2500 ext. 120 or e-mail editor@southphillyreview.com for a nomination form.


Speaking of Dr. King

G.W. Childs Elementary, 1541 S. 17th St., will present its 15th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Contest this morning at 9:15 in the school auditorium.

Contestants in the second, third and fourth grades will recite poems reflecting the African-American experience. Prizes of book and gift certificates will be awarded.

A reception for all participants, family members and distinguished guests, including school and government officials, will be held in the G.W. Childs Parent Center following the contest.

Recycle your knowledge

The Philadelphia Streets Department is seeking five teams of two Philadelphia high-school students to compete in its first Amazing Recycling Race, based on the reality TV show The Amazing Race. The event will be held April 12.

Students will be judged on their recycling know-how to win prizes in celebration of Earth Day.

For an official application — which is due tomorrow — call Amy Angelilli at 215-629-2350. For recycling information, call 215-685-RECYCLE.