Dexter, Missouri - One of the largest JR Beta Clubs in the state of Missouri held their 4th annual JR Beta Induction Ceremony at T.S. Hill Middle School in Dexter, Missouri.

Sponsors of the Jr Beta Club were on hand to light ceremonial candles. 

"Our club is a leadership-service organization, and we hope to be of service to our school, community, state, and nation.  These three candles, the red, white, and blue are symbolic of our nation and its ideas," state Mrs. Ramsey.

Mrs. Ramsey lit the white candle.  "White stands for light, purity, and faith.  As members of the Beta Club, we will work to hold to these principles and accept the responsibility of membership." 

Mrs. Simmons lit the red candle.  "The candle I have lit is red.  This color denotes pure love and wisdom and suggests bravery."

"Another objective of the National Beta Club is to encourage fellowship and cooperation.  We ask for wisdom and courage to live up to the motto of our club, Let Us Lead by Serving Others."

Mrs. Duncan lit the blue candle.  "I light the blue candle, which is symbolic of truth and fidelity.  This is essential in expressing loyalty to our nation, but also loyalty to our club and our school."

"The third objective of the National Beta Club is to reward effort and achievement.  We students are here today, being recognized for that achievement."

"You will notice that the candles in this group show the colors of The National Jr Beta Club: black and gold.  Black symbolizes dignity and seriousness."

"The fourth objective of the National Beta Club is to inspire honesty, which is necessary to be a good citizen.  As members of our Beta Club, we intend to grow into more trustworthy members of the student body," stated Mrs. Miller.

Mrs. Dement lit the gold candle.  "I represent the members in this club.  I lit the golden candle, which stands for warmth, friendship, and faithfulness.  We will work to become better citizens in our school, community, and nation."

Mrs. Nancy Langley, school counselor and Jr Beta Club Sponsor Team Leader came to the podium and asked all students to stand and raise their right hand.

"You have heard an explanation of the objectives of this organization from which you have received invitations.  Do you wish to join the Jr Beta Club in the promotion of its goals?"

"Yes, we do!" the students proclaimed.

"Then repeat after me," commented Langley.  "I hereby declare that I shall always strive to be honest and truthful at all times to maintain a creditable scholastic record; to be of service to my teachers and fellowmen, to conduct myself in an ethical and moral manner to reflect credit upon my school and community."

After the students were officially inducted, Mr. Kruse spoke the closing remarks.

"New members we welcome you into the Jr Beta Club and to all rights and privileges of membership.  You will receive your Jr Beta club pin, certificate, and membership card at a later date."

"We hope you will always be proud to know you were members of a long lasting organization that will remain a big part of T.S. Hill Middle school.  Members of a club that will take pride in doing many great things for our school and our community.  We look forward to seeing you experience the excitement and fun of the Jr Beta Club Convention on Friday, December 4th in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.  To those competing we wish you luck and to our new inductees we say....CONGRATULATIONS!"
 
Below is a list of Existing Betas.  A list of the New Members was in a previous article on the ShowMe Times.