North Side Positive Action Program Recognizes Local Heroes

On Monday, children at North Side Elementary school present Ellwood City’s police and fireman as a part of their December Positive Action Program.

The idea for this to become a program came from a simple comment made by Dawn Santagata’s granddaughter.

“My daughter mentioned to me that my granddaughter had asked her if she should be afraid of the police,” Santagata said.

She proceeded to explain that the children only hear the negatives about the police; they hear about the cases on the television, on the radio, and even what their parents have to say involving the police. She began to wonder about how could they let these children know that the police and firemen are here to help if they ever need it?

That’s when she took to the phone. She began contacting the elementary schools here in Ellwood to see if any of them had an interest in the children writing letters or drawing pictures to show their appreciation for all the work our policemen and firemen do for us. That’s how Chris Gibson, Principal at North Side Elementary, decided to make their December Positive Action Program.

This program was designed to acknowledge and thank all of the service groups in Ellwood City.

Working with Gibson, the pair contacted the Police Department, Fire Department, First Responders, Our Mayor, Chamber of Commerce, City Council, Business Leaders, and anyone else who in someway helps our community.

“The program was amazing,” Santagata commented.

In an assembly on Monday, the children present their artwork to the men and women in our city as a way to thank them for all they do for our city as well as all they do to protect and help all of us. Additionally, Santa Clause made an appearance as well. The children were surprised and overjoyed by the unexpected visit from Saint Nick.

“We all left that day with joy in our hearts,” Principal Chris Gibson said in regards to the program.