The nominees for Mr. DL fundraised $1,500 in two weeks for the West Deer Dog Shelter!

Student Council has sponsored the Mr. DL competition, in which five seniors are nominated for the honor, for years. This competition is not won by votes, but rather who can raise the most in cash donations for an organization chosen by the nominees and Student Council.

Lucas DeRose raised nearly $450 in donations for the dog shelter and was crowned Mr. DL. The four additional nominees were Jake Fleischer, Evan Kenney, Lee Hengelsberg and James Brunick.

Student Council president Scarlett Hadlum, vice president Natalie Shaffer and representative Rea Shabani, along with the Mr. DL nominees and crown makers Skylar Dolny and Dakota Faber-Kelly, presented the $1,500 check to the dog shelter.

Scarlett has volunteered at the dog shelter for more than seven years.

“It’s truly heartwarming seeing people take time out of their days to benefit something bigger than themselves," Scarlett said. "I’ve seen this firsthand for years in Barb Pasquale as she is constantly pouring time, love, and patience into animals that have shown just how deserving they are of a second chance at life. The magic done in that shelter is something I haven’t seen anywhere else; it truly brings tears to my eyes. All my thanks go out to Barb, Mrs. Pascucci, Mrs. Beck, the Mr. DL nominees, and all the students, staff, and community members who have come together to make a difference in the Deer Lakes Community.”