Schuylkill commissioners on Wednesday applauded three of the county’s best and brightest young stars.

Madelyn Garvey, Faith Sleva, and Ethan C. Stump each received scholarships from volunteer organizations and accolades from the commissioners.

Madelyn, a student at Schuylkill Haven Area High School, earned the $1,000 Dr. Harry A. & Mary Jo Crosswell Environmental Citizenship Scholarship Award.

With members of the Crosswell family looking on, Madelyn was presented the award by Darlene D. Dolzani, executive director of Schuylkill Keep It Pretty.

“This memorial scholarship is SKIP’s way of recognizing Dr. Harry A. and Mary Jo Crosswell, two of the founders and strongest supporters of SKIP, for their unconditional support and dedication to preserving the environment,” according to SKIP’s website.

“They would be delighted to know this scholarship will be used to educate some of our county’s community and environmentally minded seniors.”

Madelyn is first in her class with a 4.1 grade-point average, is active in environmental causes, and has participated in every SKIP cleanup, Dolzani said.

Ethan C. Stump, Blue Mountain High School / Schuylkill Technology Center, earned the SKIP Environmental Award and a $1,000 scholarship.

Ethan interned with SKIP, and “didn’t miss a meeting,” Dolzani said.

Faith Sleva, Pine Grove Area High School, and Madelyn each earned a $500 scholarship from Women Who Care.

The awards were presented by former Lehighton Area School District teacher Holly Frantz along with Diann Drey.

Both women praised the young women for their community service and leadership.

The public meeting took on a somber note as commissioners “with regret” accepted the retirement of longtime Chief Clerk Darlene Laughlin.

Commissioners praised Laughlin’s hard work, long hours and extensive knowledge. Laughlin has been teaching her replacement, Linda Deatrich.