Anderson Oconee Pickens

Daniel, T.L. Hanna High School Students Win Top
Honors at Tri-County's Annual Writing Contest

CONTACT: DR. MARIANNE TAYLOR, 646-1363

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4/6/2004
(By Lisa Garrett)

PENDLETON --- Students from D.W. Daniel and T. L. Hanna high schools won first-place honors in poetry and short story categories at Tri-County Technical College's Ruby S. Hicks Memorial Writing Contest Awards Ceremony held March 25.

The event recognizes the creative writing abilities of area high school students.

Matthew Trombley, a senior at T.L. Hanna High School, won first place in the short story category and received $150 and a plaque.

Winning first place in the poetry category was Mary Frances Maloney, a senior at Daniel. She also received $150 and a plaque. In addition, Maloney won second place in the short story category and received a $75 award.

Bryanna Parker a sophomore at Seneca High School, won second place in the poetry category. She received a plaque and $75. Winning third place in the poetry category was Melissa Guthrie, a senior at Daniel. She received $50 and a plaque.

Hillary Spence, a senior at West-Oak High School, won third place in the short story category and received $50.

Honorable mentions for the poetry category went B. Elliott Bagwell, David DeWitt and Teng Lu, all seniors at Daniel High. They each received $20.

Honorable mentions for the short story category went to Samantha McGath, a sophomore at Easley High School, and Brandon Ragsdale and Brittani Tinsley, both seniors at Pickens High School. They each received $20.

Since 1986, the event has recognized the creative writing abilities of area high school students. Several years ago, the English Department renamed its annual writing contest to honor the late Ruby S. Hicks for her patronage, her encouragement and her friendship. For years, Mrs. Hicks graciously donated funds and encouraged the College to continue recognizing the creative talents of area high school students with an annual contest. Tri-County Technical College's Foundation sponsored the event.

For the second consecutive year, Mike and Brenda Cannon of Anderson are the patrons of the contest. Mr. and Mrs. Cannon, in honor of their sons, Brooks and Ross, funded the cash awards for the winners of the writing competition.
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