Jul. 3--KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Limestone Career Technology Center student Christopher Kennedy won a high-school-level gold medal in computer maintenance technology Tuesday at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Trinity's Justin Stricklin, a student at Wallace State College in Hanceville, won the college/ postsecondary bronze medal in electronics applications.

Industry leaders representing more than 1,100 businesses, corporations, trade associations and unions recognized the students for excellence in 91 hands-on contests in occupational and leadership areas, including robotics, criminal justice, aviation maintenance and public speaking.

More than 5,000 students from all 50 states competed this week in the SkillsUSA Champion-ships.

Industry standards

The contests assess hands-on, employability and academic skills. Industry experts run and judge the contests using industry standards for employment. More than 1,200 industry judges participated this year.

All student winners received medallions. Many also received prizes such as tools of their trades and/or scholarships to further their careers and education.

The SkillsUSA Championships is for high school and college students who are members of SkillsUSA.

In addition, for the second year, the winners and other high scorers received Skill Point Certificates.

Certificate recipients

The certificates were awarded in 59 occupational areas at this year's National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Limestone Career Technology Center student Joshua Evans of Ardmore earned a certificate in Technical Computer Applications.

Johnny Winfrey of Boaz, a student at Gadsden State Community College, was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.

Joey Roster of Remlap, and a student at Wallace State, earned a Skill Point certificate in welding.

Copyright © 2008 The Decatur Daily, Ala.

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CLASS OF 2008

The academic top 10

Emily Bird

Extracurricular activities: Soccer, captain; cheerleading, captain; National Honor Society, vice president; "We the People" Government Team

Community involvement: Huntsville Hospital Volunteer, Church Youth Group

Academic awards: A Honor Roll, Citizenship Award, Scholastic Excellence Award, American Justice Award

College: Rhodes College

Quotation: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and he will direct your paths." - Proverbs 3:5-6

Devin Ward

Extracurricular activities: Ski club, percussionist in band; violinist in orchestra; soccer, baseball

Community involvement: Mission trip to Belize; delivered food and toiletries to homeless; managed American Red Cross blood drive and food canteen

Academic awards: Salutatorian; Highest grades in AP Calculus, AP English and Zoology; High Honor Roll; Delta Sigma Theta Outstanding Achievement Award; University of Alabama Presidential Scholarship Award

College: University of Alabama in Huntsville

Quotation: If your mind can conceive it, you can achieve it!

Allison Lang

Extracurricular activities: Basketball; soccer; volleyball; track; softball

Community involvement: National Honor Society, president; Huntsville Botanical Garden camp counselor; Vacation Bible School teacher

Academic awards: Most Outstanding student in AP English 12; A-Honor Roll

College: Calhoun Community College

Quotation: "No matter how unfair life treats you, hold your head high for you have much to be proud of."

Sophia Wyss

Extracurricular activities: DECA; Key Club; Academic Team

Community involvement: American Red Cross blood donor; Key Club community activities

Academic awards: Honor Roll; Oracle highest grade point average

College: Colorado School of Mines

Quotation: "It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." - Aristotle

Velia Castaneda

Extracurricular activities: Varsity cheerleading; varsity soccer; theater

Community involvement: St John's Catholic Church nursery volunteer

Academic awards: Honor Roll

College: University of Alabama in Huntsville

Quotation: "I've arrived at the place if I'm not taking a career risk, I'm not happy. If I'm scared, then I know I'm being challenged." - Jim Carrey

Britney Pointer

Extracurricular activities: Prom committee; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; Skills USA: Champions at Work

Community involvement: United Way Youth Leadership Council

Academic awards: Honor Roll; Library Science Excellence Award; National Assessment of Educational Progress completion; Huntsville Center for Technology program completion; UAH Academic Excellence Scholarship

College: University of Alabama in Huntsville

Quotation: Our greatest glory is not in never failing but in rising every time we fall. - Confucius

Caleb Setzer

Extracurricular activities: Varsity soccer, co-captain; church youth group; independent study art class; "We The People" Government Team

Community involvement: Continental League Soccer concession stand volunteer; Continental League Soccer referee; mission trip to the Ukraine; construction work at a mission's camp

Academic awards: Honor Roll

College: Calhoun Community College

Quotation: "There are two kinds of people: Those who say to God, 'Thy will be done,' and those to whom God says, 'All right, then, have it your way.'" - C.S. Lewis

Brenda Ward

Information not available

Nathan Mazur

Information not available

Lindsey Warren

Information not available

Copyright © 2008 The Huntsville Times. All Rights Reserved.

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A number students from Shelby County's School of Technology competed and placed in state competitions this year. Several will go on to represent Alabama in national competitions.

They include:

-- Drafting Design Technology department student Bobby Duff, first place in architectural drafting. Duff won twoyear scholarships to several state community/technical colleges, $500 toward the national competition, and other prizes. He competes at the SkillsUSA National Leadership Conference in June.

-- CISCO Networking department students Daniel DuBose, gold medal, and Alan Evans, silver medal, in the internetworking division. Dubose goes to the national SkillsUSA Championship in Kansas City next month.

-- Collision Repair department students Joey Barrett and Austin May, first and second place, respectively, in collision repair. Barrett won a $23,000 scholarship, a free workshop trip to the Dupont Refinishing School in Atlanta, and other prizes. May also won a $23,000 scholarship and $1,000 in hand tools and air tools. In motorcycle technology, Evan Wheat, third. Wheat received a $23,000 scholarship and hand tools valued at $100. The three will compete at the next month's national SkillsUSA competition.

-- Several Health Care Science class students placed first: Sports medicine, Kristin Montgomery; the Kaiser Permanente Healthcare Issues Exam, Emily Patterson; dental terminology, Regina Hester; community emergency preparedness, first place Ashley Hart team and Shelley Bentley team.

Four students will attend the Health Occupations Students of America, or HOSA, National Leadership Conference in Dallas next month: Kristin Montgomery; Emily Patterson; Kayla Argo, second, medical assisting clinical; and Mandy O'Neal, second, extemporaneous speaking.

EMAIL: ktaylor@bhamnews.com

Copyright © 2008 Birmingham News. All Rights Reserved.

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"When you compete with the best that the state of Alabama has to offer and come out of top, that says a lot about the types of programs, students and teachers here at the Earnest Pruett Center of Technology," said Monte Gant, director of EPCOT.

The technology center has six students traveling to Kansas City, Mo. for the National SkillsUSA competition June 23-27. Tyler Williams, Taylor Chisenall, Zach Fowler, Curtis Enoch, Andrew Clardy, Ryan Sanders and Vince Wright will compete against students from across the country in hopes of placing at the national competition.

Five students from EPCOT are traveling to Dallas, Texas for the National HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America) competition. Amy Hall, Brittney Jackson, Kayla Wormsley, Sarah Lowery and Jill Burgess will compete at the national HOSA competition in different areas. "We are very excited about the competition," said Deborah Hilley, health science instructor at EPCOT. "We did not compete last year and this year we have seven out of 14 students place at the state level."Hilley says the students have put a lot of extra time and effort into preparing for the HOSA competition and it has paid off for them. "We could not take the trip without the donations and support from people in the community," said Hilley. HOSA students have received donations from Highlands Medical Center, Smurfitt Stone, Section Pharmacy, Dr. Scott Thompson and Ponder's Mountain Pharmacy.

Placing in the top three at the national competition will open many doors forthe students. It will open doors for other leadership roles through National HOSA as well as opportunites for college.

Even though school is out, students are still preparing for the national competition. The students will travel to Kansas City to compete in their specific trades.

Placing in the national competition also give the students a chance to compete in the international SkillsUSA competition, which is held every two years. "We are luck to be in a county where the superintendent, Jerry Jeffery, and the board of education are very supportive of career tech education and success for all students, and for that we really appreciate them," said Gant. Save Mail Print Comment

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The Jackson County Commission agreed to apply for funds to build a bridge over Estill Fork Creek.

Currently, a fjord exists over the creek which is on County Road 140 around the Gray's Chapel area, but the fjord is dangerous to travelers, according to Jim Frost with the Jackson County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Frost asked the commission to apply for federal funding from two sources to help improve the dangerous crossing and also help preserve endangered species that live in the creek.

The two federal grants are from the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Frost said the applications are non-binding, so if the commission chooses to not pursue the funding, they can do so. The applications are just to see if they could qualify for the funding.

County Engineer Brian Rosenbalm was asked to estimate the cost of building the bridge, which he determined to be $300,000 to $350,000.

Frost said the goal for the project is to have several organizations involved in financing the project.

In other business, the commission:"Voted to split the cost of a full page ad in the Jackson County Rescue Squad Rodeo program at a cost of $300 total;"Approved the Town of Langston's request for ditch work on Lakeshore Drive with the town reimbursing the county for the cost;"Voted to give $1,500 to 11 students who will be attending the Skills USA National Championship and name them honorary good will ambassadors for Jackson County upon approval by the county's auditors;"Voted to appoint Doug Sisk to the 91 Board, replacing Tom Warren who has moved out of the county;"Voted to reappoint Stacy Ledwell to the Jackson County Economic Development Authority;"Voted to accept Dennis Miller's resignation from the Jackson County 911 Board and appoint Jim Miller to replace him. Save Mail Print Comment

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The Limestone County school board agreed on supplemental pay for various coaches and sponsors and took other personnel action during its board meeting last week. Board members approved the following supplemental pay rates for the following positions: " $9,000 plus 13-days pay for varsity football coach, varsity boys basketball coach, varsity girls basketball coach " $7,500 plus 13-days pay for band director " $4,500 plus seven-days pay for varsity baseball coach, varsity softball coach " $3,500 for the following: football assistants 1A-6A, 2A-6A, 3,4,5 6A only, 4,5,6A only, 5,6A only and 6A only; boys basketball assistants; girls basketball assistants " $3,000 plus seven-days pay for varsity volleyball coach " $2,500 plus seven days pay for varsity football cheerleader sponsor " $2,500 varsity basketball cheerleader sponsor; athletic director; certified designated assistant principal " $2,000 plus seven-days pay for boys soccer coach, girls soccer coach " $2,000 for certified assistant band director; Career Tech robotics advisor " $1,500 for baseball, softball and volleyball assistants; wrestling coach; varsity boys track coach, varsity girls track coach; boy and girls cross country track coach " $1,250 for non-certified designated assistant principal " $1,200 for boys golf sponsor, girls golf sponsor " $1,000 for junior varsity football cheerleader sponsor (separate squad effective 2008-09), middle school football cheerleader sponsor, non-certified assistant band director, junior varsity basketball cheerleader sponsor, middle school cheerleader sponsor, Senior Beta Club sponsor/National Honor Society, Junior Beta Club sponsor/National Honor Society; Senior Scholars Bowl sponsor, yearbook sponsor, theater sponsor, Career Tech student advisor, local school FCCLA advisor, local school FFA advisor, Career Tech Skills USA advisor, Career Tech FBLA advisor. " $750 for countywide Special Olympics coordinator and Junior Scholars Bowl sponsor

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The Daily Sentinel

'It was a nail biter,' said Vince Wright, about the National SkillsUSA competition held in Kansas City, Mo. recently. 'You could tell that it was Nationals.'

Wright might have felt the pressure of the national competition, but he didn't let that stop him from going for the gold and snatching first place in the National SkillsUSA competition.

The outstanding masonry student beat out students from all over the United States to win first place at nationals. Wright took first place in the State SkillsUSA competition in April held in Montgomery, making him eligible for the national competition.

Faculty at the Earnest Pruett Center of Technology fully expected Wright to make it to the national competition. After proving them right and making it to nationals, he wowed them again with first at the competition.

Wright says the competition was intense. He knew he was at least in the top three.

'I saw some old faces and some new faces at the competition,' said Vince. 'It was great because they gave us a new project that nobody had seen before.'

Charles West, masonry instructor at EPCOT, recalls the story students sitting around him during the awards ceremony had to tell.

'The students said that after the judges announced the third and second place winners, he jumped up and started running for the stage before they even called his name,' said West.

The masonry competition took place over two days. The first day was filled with a written orientation, an industry tour and a written test that counted for a possible 100 points of their score.

Each competitor could receive a total of 1,000 points. There were ten different categories in which the judges assessed, each one counting 100 points. Wright has not received his numerical score yet, even though he knows he won first place.

West is proud of his student, to say the least.

'There was 5,000 students at the competition. Only 91 winners. And Vince was one of those,' said West.

The masonry competition is one of the most viewed competitions at nationals.

'There was and always is standing room only at the masonry competition,' said West. 'There were several people there watching Vince. I could hear people around me asking who that kid was and where he was from. And I just had to tell them that he was mine.'

Monte Gant, director at EPCOT, made his first trip to the national competition to watch the students compete.

'I am very proud of Vince and each and every one of the students that represented the school at each level of competition,' said Gant. 'Not only because they were winners in competition, but they are winners in life.'

Gant is proud he has instructors at EPCOT that want to see the students succeed in high school and afterwards, whether they should go on to a college of enter the workforce.

'I want to thank Jerry Jeffery, superintendent of the Jackson County School System, and the Board of Education for their support throughout the year,' said Gant.

For placing first in the National SkillsUSA competition, Wright was awarded a multitude of prizes. He received $15,000 cash for EPCOT, a Dell laptop computer, $750 in Carhartt clothing, two sets of tools valued at $250 each, and a masonry calculator.

Wright is the son of Kim and Travis Skinner of Pisgah and Brad Wright. He is the grandson of Bobby and Vicki Horton of Section. He has one brother, Clint Wright of Pisgah.

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The Earnest Pruett Center of Technology took four students and one alternate to the National SkillsUSA competition in Kansas City, Mo. recently.

The team build team placed fourth in the team build competition, missing third by only a few points. Curtis Enoch, Will Huddleston, Zach Rankin and Ryan Sanders competed against students from all over the United States. Greg Miller went as an alternate for the competition.

Team build means simply that. The four students formed a team to build a full-scale bathroom for the competition. Each student specialized in a different trade. Enoch, a student at North Sand Mountain High School, worked on the plumbing portion of the room. Huddleston, from Woodville High School, was the brick layer. The carpenter/electrician was Rankin, a student at North Jackson High School. Sanders, of Skyline High School, was the head carpenter.

The competition was held over four days. Only two of those days were spent actually constructing the room. The first day consisted of orientation, interviews and presentations. The students also had to turn in a materials list for the competition.

Day two and three were spent building the bathroom. The last day, students participated in a debriefing. They also had to tear down and clean up the competition area.

This was the first year EPCOT has competed in the team build portion of the national competition.

The final score for the competition is not yet available. The school will receive a numerical total to see the areas they need to improve on for next year.

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Lucas Wassner, of Muscle Shoals, received an applied technology scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Muscle Shoals High School, he was a member of the soccer team, Science Olympiad and Skills USA. He was vice president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was an Ambassador. The son of Wayne and Suzanne Wassner, he plans to major in electronics technology.

Jennifer Ford, of Tuscumbia, received a salutatorian scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Colbert Heights High School, she was a member of the volleyball and softball teams and homecoming and senior coronation courts. She was a nominee for the Good Citizenship Award and was salutatorian. She is the daughter of Dewey and Debbie Ford.

Gatlan Layne Vinson, of Killen, received an academic scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Brooks High School, he was a member of the drama, science and music clubs, Peers for Life, A/B honor roll, Mr. BHS prom court and the football, basketball and track teams. He was Who's Who most talented and a class favorite. The son of Anthony and Glenda Vinson, he plans to major in physical therapy.

William H. Gotcher, of Muscle Shoals, received a presidential scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Muscle Shoals High School, he was a member of National Honor Society, Science

Olympiad, concert band, Future Business Leaders of America and science, 4-H and Key clubs. The son of Henry and Kathy Gotcher, he plans to major in computer

engineering.

Lauren N. Wilson, of Rogersville, received the David McMeans Memorial Scholarship through the Northwest-Shoals Community College Foundation. A graduate of Lauderdale County High School, she was a member of the basketball, volleyball and tennis teams, Beta Club and Who's Who. The daughter of Larry and Melody Wilson, she plans to major in special education.

Christine E. Wilson, of Rogersville, received the David McMeans Memorial Scholarship through the Northwest-Shoals Community College Foundation. A graduate of Lauderdale County High School, she was a member of student council, basketball team and Senior Who's Who. The daughter of Larry and Melody Wilson, she plans to major in radiology.

Kyle Malone, of Russellville, received an applied technology scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Russellville High School, he was a member of National Honor Society, booster club, Health Occupations Students of America, Future Business Leaders of America and Educational Talent Search. He was newspaper editor and president of Skills USA and the drama club. The son of Ray and Kathy Malone, he plans to major in physical therapy.

Skylor Bouwmans, of Russellville, received an applied technology scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. He is a graduate of Russellville High School. The son of Rose Winstead and Donnie Bouwmans, he plans to major in computer programming.

Tanner Lee Maddox, of Haleyville, received a presidential scholarship from

Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Phil Campbell High School, he was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the P-Club. He was captain of the basketball team. The son of Tim and Michelle Maddox, he plans to major in education.

Nicholaus Samuel Noles received his Ph.D. in psychology from Yale University on May 26. He attended Anderson Junior High School and graduated from Lauderdale County High School. He graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a degree in psychology. His dissertation research focused on adults' and children's concepts of ownership. He completed much of his research with the help of students and staff members at LCHS, West Limestone High School and Anderson. He is continuing his training as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich. He is the son of Stanley and Diane Noles, Anderson.

Claudia Calhoun represented Lauderdale County High School at Alabama Girls State held at Troy University June 8-13. She was elected to the office of district attorney. She was a varsity cheerleader and member of varsity softball team, FCA, Peers For Life, Beta Club, FCCLA, FBLA, FFA, Mu Alpha Theta, junior prom princess court, Who's Who Among American High School Students and 2008 Capstone Business Academy. She is the daughter of Tommy and Angela Calhoun.

Florence residents named to the spring semester dean's list at Furman University, Greenville, S.C., for earning at least a 3.4 grade-point average include: Alana L. Bates, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Bates; and Bethany D. Prince, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Prince.

Amy Leigh Beck, of Town Creek, received a Lambert-Ezell-Durham endowed scholarship from the . A graduate of Hatton High School, she is a sophomore at UNA majoring in nursing. She is a recipient of a Northwest Alabama Cancer Center endowed scholarship and has been named to the dean's list. She is the daughter of Blake and Bonnie Beck.

Danielle Benton, of Decatur, received an American Legion scholarship from the . A graduate of Decatur Heritage High School, she is a sophomore at UNA majoring in history with a minor in sociology. She is the daughter of Larry and Tammy Benton.

Erica Gholson, of Remlap, received an American Legion scholarship from the . A graduate of Springville High School, she was class secretary, a member of Beta Club and all-county volleyball team, Defense Award recipient and was selected for Who's Who Among American High School Students. The daughter of Ronald and Edna Gholson, she plans to major in education.

Cory Hamilton, of Warrior, received a Coca-Cola Dream endowed scholarship from the . A graduate of Hayden High School, he is a sophomore at UNA majoring in economics and finance. He was Leadership UNA co-chairman, University Program Council homecoming chairman, participated in the LaGrange Society and is a recipient of a Contribution to Campus Life Award. He is the son of Rob and Tina Hamilton.

Chelsea Holland, of Belmont, Miss., received a community college transfer scholarship to the . She attended Itawamba Community College and Northwest Mississippi Community College where she received an associates's degree. She received a United States Youth Congressional Award and a Northwest Mississippi Leadership Award. The daughter of Stephen and Chris Holland, she plans to major in communications with a focus in public

relations.

Chase Rains, of Madison, received an academic scholarship from the . He is a graduate of Sparkman High School. The son of Ty and Carmen Rains, he plans to major in biology with a minor in chemistry.

Wesley Sandlin, of Townley, received a Muse scholarship from the . He is a graduate of Carbon Hill High School and Bevill State Community College. He received Bevill State Ambassador, Walker County Homebuilders and Perry Newcomb Memorial scholarships. He is the son of B.J. and Charlotte Sandlin.

Kirsten Shaw, of Wilsonville, received a Pride of Dixie Band scholarship from the . A graduate of Shelby County High School, she was band section leader her senior year, a soloist in a marching production and participated in the all-county band and the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Jacksonville State University honor bands. She was CROSS Team co-director for the Birmingham Diocese. She was a member of Beta Club, Future Star of Tomorrow Award winner and participated in track. She is the daughter of Jason and Denise Shaw.

William P. Smart II, of Florence, received an Ellie Richardson Mitchell endowed scholarship from the . A graduate of Madison County High School, he was voted football team captain and best defensive lineman, class clown and most unique his senior year. He was football letterman and a member of Beta Club. The son of Bill and Cathy Smart, he will be a sophomore at UNA who is majoring in commercial music.

Jamie Takala, of Naples, Fla., received a regional scholarship from the . A graduate of Gulf Coast High School, she was soccer team captain, received several sports awards and was a recipient of a Do the Right Thing Award and a Bright Futures Medallion and Gold Seal scholarships. She is the daughter of Richard Takala and Peggy Kenefick.

Chase Moore, of Canton, Mich., received a regional scholarship from the . A graduate of Plymouth Salem High School, he participated in varsity wrestling, was a member of the Plymouth Fife and Drum Corps and logged more than 800 community service hours. The son of Kathy and Mark Moore, he plans to major in history with a minor in secondary education.

Dakoda Taylor, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn., received a community college transfer scholarship from the . A graduate of Lawrence County High School, he attended Columbia State Community College. The son of Debbie and Kevin Taylor, he is a sophomore at UNA majoring in marketing. The has awarded endowed scholarships to the following:

Shannon Patterson, of Florence, received an Elizabeth G. Mann Alumni endowed scholarship to UNA. A graduate of Mars Hill Bible School, she was chorus historian, a member of the Elite Group Show Choir, a cast member in her senior play, voted prettiest in her senior class Who's Who and participated in Youth Leadership Shoals. The daughter of Jeff and Lisa Patterson, she plans to major in graphic design.

Harold Clay III, of Florence, received a Presidential Mentors Academy scholarship from UNA. A graduate of Muscle Shoals High School, he received an academic honors diploma. He is the son of Jeanette Cook.

Lindsey Ann Holden, of Killen, received a T.M. Rogers Jr. endowed scholarship from UNA. A graduate of Brooks High School, she is a senior at UNA majoring in marketing. She is a UNA Lionette, a member of Phi Mu and the Gamma Beta Phi, Phi Eta Sigma and Alpha Lambda Delta honor societies. She is the daughter of Jeff and Mary Ann Holden.

Christine Black, of Huntsville, received an academic scholarship from the . A graduate of Grissom High School, she is a freshman at UNA who is majoring in elementary education. She is Alpha Lambda Delta vice president, has been named to the dean's list and is a member of the Gamma Beta Phi and Phi Eta Sigma honor societies. She is the daughter of Pete and Susan Black.

Paige Palmer, of Red Bay, received a Northwest Alabama Junior Miss scholarship from the . A graduate of Red Bay High School, she participated in Future Business Leaders of America, Students Against Drunk Driving, Health Occupation Students of America, math team and the Beta, Spanish, science and Leo clubs. She was on the A-B honor roll, had the highest average in anatomy, English II and clinical specialist and placed in the state HOSA job-seeking skills competition. The daughter of Carol Reynolds, she plans to major in pre-law.

Local students named to the spring semester dean's scholars at Mississippi State University for earning a grade-point average between 3.5 and 3.79 include: Emory G. Allen, Russellville; Alyssa L. Horton, Red Bay; Nicole C. McGee, Muscle Shoals; Joseph G. Stumpe, Florence; and William M. White, Muscle Shoals.

Ssatoria Harris, of Muscle Shoals, received a four-year University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazing Scholars Award valued at $16,000. She is a graduate of Deshler High School, Tuscumbia. The daughter of Shelly Harris, of Calera, she plans to major in nursing.

Bryce Lipscomb, of Town Creek, received a presidential scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Hazlewood High School, he was a member of the science club, Who's Who, Future Teachers of America and Upward Bound. He was selected as most friendly. The son of Bryce and Linda Lipscomb, he plans to major in electrical engineering.

Tiphani Margie Nell Bratcher, of Florence, received an academic scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Florence High School, she was a member of the band and drama and creative writing clubs. The daughter of Margie David, she plans to major in child development.

Corey Keenum, of Tuscumbia, received a performing arts scholarship from

Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Deshler High School, he was a member of the chorus and Alabama all-state choir. The son of Joe and Sheila Keenum, he plans to major in music.

Courtney Michael, of Florence, received an academic scholarship from

Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Wilson High School, she was a member of Beta Club, student council, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Future Business Leaders of America, Peers for Life, coronation court and National Honor Society. She was basketball and softball team captains. The daughter of Greg and Karen Michael, she plans to major in education.

John C. Sistrunk, of Tuscumbia, received an academic scholarship from

Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Deshler High School, he was a member of Key Club, National Honor Society and Skills USA. He participated in Scholars Bowl, student council and basketball. The son of Henry and Linda Sistrunk, he plans to major in engineering.

Megan Gresham, of Athens, received an academic scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Clements High School, she was a member of Beta Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Spanish club, Who's Who Among American High School Students, National Honor Rooll, United States Achievement Academy and the volleyball, basketball and softball teams. She was an A/B honor student and Ms. CHS. The daughter of Danny and Jennifer Gresham, she plans to major in physical therapy/sports medicine.

Jessica Jaco, of Tuscumbia, received an academic scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Colbert Heights High School, she was a member of the softball, basketball and volleyball teams, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and Future Business Leaders of America. She is the daughter of Sharon and John Jaco.

Hannah Rebecca Lang, of Tuscumbia, received an academic scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Colbert Heights High School, she was a member of honor society and president of the Key Club and Mu Alpha Theta. She is the daughter of Timothy Eugene Lang and Vickie Ann Holt Lang.

Cara Kimbrough, of Russellville, received a performing arts scholarship from Northwest-Shoals Community College. A graduate of Russellville High School, she was a member of Future Business Leaders of America, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Future Teachers of America, Christian Students United, Health Occupation Students of America and the science, environmental science, art and drama clubs. In music, she was a member of the symphonic, jazz and pep bands,quad-county and university honor bands and Drum and Brass Theater. She was a marching band senior officer, color guard sergeant and Who's Who wittiest. The daughter of Rickey and Martha Kimbrough, she plans to major in music.

Kristina Michelle Keenum, of Tuscumbia, received the Tuscumbia Kiwanis Club Scholarship through the Northwest-Shoals Community College Foundation. A graduate of Deshler High School, she was a member of Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Red Ryders, yearbook staff and Key and French clubs. The daughter of Michael and Barbara Keenum, she plans to be a nurse anesthetist.

Megan Roberts, of Phil Campbell, received the G & G/FMI Nursing Scholarship through the Northwest-Shoals Community College Foundation. A graduate of Phil Campbell High School, she was a member of National Honor Society, Who's Who Among American High School Students and National Society of High School Scholars. She was selected as Who's Who most dependable. The daughter of Marie Roberts, she plans to become a registered nurse.

Sanjay A. Palakshappa, of Muscle Shoals, graduated magna cum laude from Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Va., on June 5 with a bachelor's degree in economics. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Agasanakatte Palakshappa.

n Ashanti Garner, of Florence, received a Martin Luther King Jr. endowed scholarship from the . A graduate of Florence High School, she was Zuri Social Club vice president and participated in the Debutante program. The daughter of Portia Garner, she plans to major in nursing.

Nick Cupps, of Madison, received a community college transfer scholarship to the . A graduate of Madison Central High School, he also attended Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where he was a member of Phi Theta Kappa. The son of Mark and Patricia Cupps, he plans to major in nursing.Information for comes from universities, colleges and local schools. It is published as space permits on Sundays. on this topic. Forums exdate=new Date(); exdate.setDate(exdate.getDate()+1); var undefined; function Get_Cookie( name ) /* get current cookie value */ var start = document.cookie.indexOf( name + '=' ); var len = start + name.length + 1; if ( ( !start ) &&( name != document.cookie.substring( 0, name.length ) ) ) return null; if ( start == -1 ) return null; var end = document.cookie.indexOf( ';', len ); if ( end == -1 ) end = document.cookie.length; return unescape( document.cookie.substring( len, end ) ); /* Define current_cookie value */ var current_count = Get_Cookie('articlecount'); var current_count = parseInt(current_count); var userid = Get_Cookie('UserRegID'); var userid = parseInt(userid); /* Maximum articles to read before showing registration*/ if (current_count) number = current_count + 1; else number = 2; document.cookie='articlecount=' + number + ';expires=' + exdate; if (current_count > maximum_count) document.cookie='articlelimit=reached;expires=' + exdate; function setClassName(objId, className) document.getElementById(objId).className = className; if (current_count > maximum_count && !userid) setClassName('box', 'threshold_hiddenPlease create an account or login to read this storyCREATE AN ACCOUNT'); document.write (' '); document.write ('ALREADY A MEMBER? LOGIN NOW.'); document.write ('If you have already created an account, simply login to your account using your email and password below. If you need help, check our Member Center.'); document.write ('EmailPassword Remember my member ID and password on this computer.'); document.write (' ');

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From the campus

- Roger D. Betts of Toney has been awarded the Society of American Military Engineers Alabama A&M University $2,000 scholarship award for 2008-2009.

He is majoring in electrical engineering at Alabama A&M.

- Jennifer Erin Kennedy of Huntsville has been presented a $2,000 scholarship from the Huntsville Post Society of American Military Engineers.

She is a freshman in biochemistry at the University of Alabama Huntsville. She is the daughter of Cyndee Kennedy and Chuck Kennedy.

- Brittany Stewart has been spent eight weeks this summer in Taiwan in Auburn University's Study Abroad Taiwan 2008 Program. She is a graduate of 2005 New Hope High School.

- Jacob Duke of Dutton has became a state gold metal winner in a Skills USA competition. He competed in Electronic Technology, college level.

He earned an associate's degree in electronic engineering technology from Gadsden Sate Community College. He received the outstanding student in Electronic Engineering Technology at the college's awards ceremony.

He attended the national competition in Kansas City, Mo.

He is a 2006 graduate of Pisgah High School and is the son of Mack and Susan Denise Duke.

- Lindsay Ille has been inducted into Auburn University's Delta Beta chapter of Alpha Epsilon, the honor society which recognizes achievement in the field of agricultural and biological engineering.

Students from the upper quarter of their engineering class who exhibit qualities of character, leadership and personality are selected for membership.

Ille is a seniormajoring in biosystems engineering.

She is a 2005 graduate of Hazel Green High School and is the daughter of Ken and Carol Ille.

- Thomas M. Henson of Killen has received a Dr. William Hailey Endowed Scholarship to the University of North Alabama.

He is a junior at UNA and is majoring in computer information systems and has been on the dean's list.

He is a graduate of Sparkman High School.

- Brendan Babiak is the recipient of the J.R. Craft Scholarship in Electrical Engineering at Mississippi State University.

He is a President's Scholar.

He is a 2007 graduate of Grissom High School is the son of Patricia Babiak.

- Mary Rickabaugh of Madison has been awarded an academic scholarship to the University of North Alabama.

He is a 2008 graduate of Bob Jones High School and is the daughter of Ronnie and Linda Rickabaugh.

- Jacob Souder of Madison has been awarded a Charles E. Carr Jr. Endowed Scholarship to the University of North Alabama.

Souder is also a recipient of UNA Band Service and leadership scholarships.

He is majoring in music education. He is a graduate of Bob Jones High School and is the son of John and Marie Souder.

- Benjamin Grider of Huntsville has received a University of North Alabama Pride of Dixie Band Scholarship.

He plays trombone.

Grider is a graduate of Covenant Christian Academy and is the son of Gary and Deanna Grider.

- Jana Luanne Berry of Huntsville has been awarded a Jessie Barnes Edwards Endowed Scholarship to the University of North Alabama.

She is majoring in nursing. She is the president of the UNA Student Nurses Association, secretary of Gamma Beta Phi, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Delta Epsilon Iota, Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Lambda Delta Freshmen Honor Society.

She is a graduate of Whitesburg Baptist Christian School and is the daughter of Patricia F. Berry.

- Sarah Elizabeth Simmons of Madison has been named a Beeson Exceptional Scholar at Samford University.

She is among 10 recipients of a Dwight Moody and Lucille Stewart Beeson Scholarship, which is renewable for four years of study and covers tuition, fees, room, board, books and international study.

Recipients have demonstrated superior scholastic ability, leadership, energy and self-reliance in extracurricular activities and church and community affairs.

The Beeson Exceptional Scholars Program is designed to help meritorious Alabama residents pursue studies at Samford, and to encourage the state's brightest and best to obtain their university experience in Alabama.

Simmons is a 2008 graduate of Catholic High School and is the daughter of Teresa and John Simmons.

- The University of North Alabama has awarded Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarships to Kelly Frith of Madison, Jennifer N. Sexton of Harvest and Sarah Sneed of Woodville.

Frith is majoring in secondary education at UNA and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society.She also attended Wallace State Community College where she was on the dean's list.She is a graduate of Bob Jones High School and is the daughter of Marvin and Jackie Frith.

Sexton is majoring in nursing. She also attended Wallace State Community College where she received the Presidential Award for Athletic Excellence, was on the president's list, dean's list and graduated with honors. She was the softball 2008 National Junior College Athletic Association Most Valuable Player and 2008 Alabama Sports Writers Association Community College Athlete of the Year. She is a graduate of Sparkman High School and is the daughter of Jason and Linda Sexton.

Sneed is majoring in elementary education and is an All Alabama Academic Team nominee. She also attended Northeast Alabama Community College. She is a graduate of Woodville High School and is the daughter of John and Patricia Sneed.

Copyright © 2008 The Huntsville Times. All Rights Reserved.

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Chant Fossett, senior cosmetology student at Scottsboro High School, is serving as a state officer for SkillsUSA.

During the state SkillsUSA competition, Fossett ran for the office of parliamentarian. After winning at the state level, Fossett attended the national SkillsUSA competition where she participated in several leadership sessions. "All the state officers get to go to the national competition," said Fossett. "I get to go to leadership conferences and bring back new skills to the students."Fossett and Kristi Clifton, cosmetology instructor, will be leaving Sept. 19, for a six-day leadership conference in Washington, D.C. Students from across the United States will attend the event.

Before attending the Washington Leadership Training Institute, Fossett had to write a research paper on the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act and what it does for career technology programs in the schools. She also had to prepare a brochure on the Perkins Act. While at the conference in Washington, Fossett will make a presentation on the act.

The purpose of the Perkins Act is to provide students with the academic and technical skills needed to succeed. The act authorizes federal funds to support vocational education programs.

Fossett will get a chance to do some sightseeing while visiting Washington. She is scheduled to meet with Sen. Lowell Barron as well. "She had to write a letter to Sen. Barron so that we can meet with them while we are there," said Clifton. The cosmetology students did well in the state SkillsUSA competition. The quiz bowl team placed second in the state. Megan Johnson received third place in the men's hair design competition.

Students are already preparing for the next competition, slated for April 28-29, 2009, in Montgomery. "The students did so well for it to be our first year," said Clifton. "More and more of the students want to be involved with SkillsUSA. I was very pleased with my students at the competition and look forward to competing again."

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COXEY A Limestone County Schools program received recognition as being the best in the state for 2008.

At Tuesdays Board of Education meeting at Clements High, the board honored Mike Clem for having the SkillsUSA Outstanding [..]

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Sept. 8, for their regular monthly meeting at the Page Administration Building.

The board approved a short list of personnel items. Those employed were:

Lauren Hill as after-school teacher assistant at Brownwood Elementary School effective Aug. 9, for the 2008-09 school year.

Sylvia White as part-time instructional assistant at Caldwell Elementary School effective Aug. 13, for the 2008-09 school year.

Brenda Woosley was transferred from itinerant part-time library instructional assistant at Nelson Elementary School to part-time special education office assistant, effective Aug. 4, for the 2008-09 school year.

The board approved an extension of contract for Kathy Jacobs, computer tech at the Central Office, from 10-month to 12-month contract, effective with the 2008-09 school year.

Out-of-state travel requests were approved for the following:

Rhea Caldwell to travel to New Orleans, La., Sept. 22-23, to attend the Gallery Tour.

Kristi Clifton to travel to Washington, D.C., Sept. 19-24, to attend the Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI) with SkillsUSA.

Patricia Combs and Kathy Jacobs to travel to Alpharetta, Ga., Sept. 22-25, to attend Zen Works training.

Sue DeWitt to travel to Seattle, Wash., Oct. 22-26, to attend the National Indian Education Convention.

Benny Wright to travel to Smyrna, Ga., Sept. 29, to attend the No Standing Around in My Gym, workshop for K-8 physical education teachers.

In other business, the board approved:

the contract for paper for the 2008-09 school year be awarded to Strickland Paper Company, Inc. at a cost of $16,450.14 or $27.40 per case.

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High school and college students who finished first at the Nebraska SkillsUSA competition in March advanced to the National SkillsUSA competition in Kansas City, Mo. More than 4,800 students competed in 91 occupational and leadership skill areas during the national competition. Nebraska had two students interested in careers in diesel technology finish in the top four.David Miller of Plattsmouth, a high school student at Metropolitan Community College, took home third place in the national competition in the secondary diesel equipment technology. 'David is truly a champion,' says Luke Klingbeil, diesel instructor at Metro Community College. 'He is a 4.75 GPA honors student from Bellevue West that is going to go to very high places in the diesel industry.'Scott Bohn of Gibbon, a college student at Central Community College-Hastings, placed fourth in the postsecondary diesel equipment technology. 'Scott is a hard worker and task-oriented,' says Randy Manning, diesel instructor at Central Community College-Hastings. 'The other students feel comfortable going to him with questions. He became the student assistant.'

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Class officers: The Cosmetology department of LeCroy Career Technical Center recently elected SKILLS USA officers. PM officers are Amber Macks, parliamentarian (Verbena); Nikia Campbell, reporter (Chilton County High); Korsha Grandison, vice president (Maplesville); Ashley Haney, president (Thorsby); Cindy Donoho, secretary (Verbena); Kim Maul, treasurer (CCHS). AM officers are Melissa Creger, reporter (Isabella); Cadi Mims, parliamentarian (CCHS); Aubrey Gomez, treasurer (Jemison); Nikki Smith, secretary (Jemison); Debra Reed, vice president (Jemison); Chantel Jackson, president (CCHS).

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