Mound Westonka Student Wins a Car!

by Lorrie Ham

Despite a terrific turn out and wonderful community support, Mound Westonka High School did not win the $100,000 "Celebrate My Drive" promotion this fall. But one of the MWHS voting seniors, Joe Vertnik, was the lucky winner of a new car and a cash prize as part of the contest.

“A hearty thank you to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to vote for Mound Westonka High School in our quest to win $100,000 from State Farm Insurance,” said Assistant Principal Marty Fischer.

Although the Westonka community showed terrific support during the promotion, St. Croix Lutheran won the money based on voting and the formula that is used for percentage/proportion of votes based on school size—a formula that levels the playing field. 

But even though MHWS did not win the big prize, senior Joe Vertnik won a 2013 Chevy Spark and $5,000 cash, which he used to pay for tax, title and license. All students aged 15-18 who voted on-line were offered the chance to enter the drawing.

Mound Westonka High School partnered with State Farm this fall to promote safe teen driving by participating in the national "Celebrate My Drive" campaign. The goal of the campaign was to celebrate the milestone of getting a license while exposing teens to tools and resources that will help them stay safe on the road. 

Mound Westonka High School did its part to support teen drivers by highlighting the dangers of distracted driving in presentations, videos and announcements during the first weeks of school and by putting on a teen driver safety showcase at the Minnesota "Celebrate My Drive" event on Sept. 15 at Ridgedale Center.

“We are excited for Joe and this really large prize,” said Fischer. “Thanks to State Farm Insurance, also, for their generosity.”