Several local organizations were recognized by The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University and this week will be formally honored. Each year, Iowans who show the Six Pillars of Character Counts earn the Iowa Character Awards. Pella was once again recognized as the 2019 Community of Character, and will be formally presented an award Friday. Lowell Ernst with the Pella School District and Pella Character Counts says the honor reflects a commitment throughout the community to trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. Ernst says character is a key basis for the strength of any communities and their citizens. Lois Turnage of Pleasantville was named the 2019 Citizen of Character, and the Lynnville-Sully football team won the Pursuing Victory with Honor Award. Additionally, Pella Middle School teacher Kristin Schultz earned honorable mention for Educator of Character and 725 Ministries in Pella also was an honorable mention in the Organization of Character category. Since 2005, the Ray Center at Drake has honored more than 100 Iowans.