Group awards scholarships

Evans High School graduate Chandler Sims recently found out he'll be joining his older brother at the University of Georgia in the fall.

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"He's just found out Monday he'll be going to Georgia," said his mother, Gail Sims. "He's been hanging by a thread, so we're real excited."

Because of the Merchants Association of Columbia County, Chandler will be getting a little extra financial help in the form of a $1,000 scholarship.

The 18-year-old is one of 10 Columbia County students who received a scholarship from the association May 4 at a ceremony at the Columbia County Fairgrounds.

"We're thankful to these merchants who are helping us out," Sims said. Chandler's older brother, Tyler, earned the same scholarship two years ago, she said.

Each year, the association presents a $1,000 vocational scholarship to a student, chosen by the faculty, from each county high school.

This year's other recipients are Alicia Doran, Greenbrier High; and Phillip Knight, Harlem High. Whitney Renee Risby and Latoya Shonta Hardy, both of Lakeside High, shared the scholarship with $500 each.

The association's annual Ruby Lane Memorial golf tournament funds $2,000 scholarships for students who write essays, receive letters of recommendation from their teachers and are chosen by an association committee.

This year's winners of the $2,000 scholarships are Tyler Boerckel, Evans High; Kacey Washington and Meaghan Harper, both of Greenbrier High; Amanda Haroldson, of Lakeside High; and Lindsey Tucker, of Harlem High.

The association raises funds year-round to support youth activities. The fundraisers include the golf tournament and the annual Columbia County Fall Fair.

Association President Bobby Harrington said he's just glad to be able to help the students get off on the right foot toward college.

"We're hoping all of you have a good trip to school and do well at it," Harrington told the winners. "I'm sure you will. We hope y'all all the best."