NEWTON FALLS Student to tour Europe as member of band

His selection comes after a test of ability and character.
NEWTON FALLS -- Dennis A. Hawkins Jr., 15, son of Dennis and Kathy Hawkins of Newton Falls, has been selected to perform with the Sound of America Honor Band.
Dennis will participate in the band's 25-day, six-country tour of Europe this summer. Applicants are selected after a character and musical evaluation.
Dennis has been principal trumpet in the Youngstown Symphony Youth Orchestra for two years and has performed with the District V Honors Band at YSU for four years.
Dennis is a sophomore at Newton Falls High School. An honor student, he is on student council, is a varsity soccer letterman and is a member of the Prep Bowl Team, drama, French and ski clubs and the marching and concert bands.
The Sound of America Honor Band is in its 25th year. The group is scheduled to present eight performances during its 25-day concert tour. Students will experience the cultures of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France and Luxembourg.
Each student qualified is responsible for all costs involved with the trip.
Anyone wanting to help sponsor Dennis for this trip can send contributions to: Dennis A. Hawkins Jr., Sounds of America, 3101 Malibu Drive, Warren, OH 44481.
The Sound of America Inc. is registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service as a nonprofit, tax exempt corporation.