High school chapter of FBLA sends student to state conference

Central Valley — The Monroe-Woodbury High School’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America has had a busy year. The chapter will be culminating this year’s events at the State Leadership Conference at the Nevele Grand Hotel on April 3, 4, and 5. The chapter had two district winners, out of 100 students participating: Rory O’Connor, who came in second out of 15 for public speaking; and Daina Migdel, who placed fifth out of 17 in the impromptu speaking event. O’Connor will be competing at the state level at the conference. The National Leadership Conference will be held later this year in Nashville, Tenn., at the Opryland Hotel. At the chapter’s dance on Friday, Feb. 24, students danced to the tunes of Midnite Entertainment. The dance provides four scholarships a year, in the name of a former member, Lynne Morris, who lost her life on September 11, 2001. The dance also helps to defray the cost of conferences. Local businesses donated door prizes, ranging from dining certificates, to haircuts, tanning, gym memberships, and food. Some of the businesses who have offered support include: Big Mikes Pizza & Pasta, Studio17, LifePlex, LaSalonge, Chilis, Fran’s Hallmark, Dr. Punim, Cyrus Jewelers, Radio Shack, McMinions, Jangos Pizza, Sonnys Pizza, Target, and Danny’s Market. The chapter had a busy year, speaking at the Rotary Club, competing at district events, and holding two blood drives. The most recent blood drive had 184 participants. One of those donors will be eligible for a $250 scholarship, given by the Hudson Valley Blood Services. The chapter meets in room 205A at the high school every Tuesday, with the support of Mrs. Rubenstein or Mr. D’Ambrosio. The national organization, of which it is a part, promotes leadership and prepares students for careers in the business field.