For
the first three years of the LifeSmarts state competition in Rhode Island,
champions had to wait several weeks to receive their plaques (so that their
names could be inscribed). Not the most immediately gratifying experience after
winning a major state competition. The top three LifeSmarts teams still have to
wait to receive their plaques that can be placed in their school’s trophy case,
but beginning at the 2008 competition, our champion will be able to hoist the
“Consumers’ Cup” immediately after winning.In the summer of 2007, three years of LifeSmarts champions (along with their parents, coaches, and our program supporters and partners) joined together at the State House for an unveiling ceremony of the “Consumers’ Cup” as created by the Herff-Jones company (who has two major facilities in Rhode Island). At this ceremony, Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch, Paula Pais of Sovereign Bank, Nancy Irving (LifeSmarts champion Mom of two) and Matthew Irving (LifeSmarts champion competitor and assistant coach) spoke about the many virtues of the LifeSmarts program.
As the Cup was unveiled by Bob Ilg, retired plant manager of the Herff-Jones Company, all in attendance joined in a collective “ooh and ahh” moment. Our pride in the stately Cup is exceeded only by our pride in our yearly competitors. The Cup is permanently housed under the direct supervision of Attorney General Patrick Lynch at his offices, appearing once per year at the Sovereign Bank “March Smartness” Competition.
The Cup includes the team name of each state champion. The engraved inscription reads:
“Let it be forever known in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, that the Champions listed on this “Consumers’ Cup” have earned unparalleled distinction for their master of consumer knowledge.”