Achievers

Louisiana Tech's fall quarter commencement exercises were held Nov. 17, with diplomas awarded to 413 graduates.

Commencement marked the close of fall quarter activities at the university, with winter quarter classes to begin Nov. 28.

Area graduates are as follows:

Gilmer: Michael Clete Thomas, B.S.

Kilgore: Eric Collins, B.S.

Longview: Rebekah Abigail Stark, M.S.

Tyler: Brandy Nicole Jenkins, B.A.

The Robert E. Lee High School Band received a first division rating at the Region 21 UIL marching contest, marking its eighth consecutive superior rating.

In a separate competition, the band placed seventh overall in the Little Elm Marching Band Festival. The group competed against 27 Texas bands.

Sarah Reiter, John Richardson and Caleb Ketcham earned the trophy for outstanding drum majors; the drum line placed second for the day.

In other awards, these students earned a spot in the all-region jazz band: Cameron Station, lead tenor sax; Cheyenne Spell, second tenor sax; Steven Lampton, baritone sax; Patrick Thompson, lead trumpet; Keaton Ainsworth, second trumpet; Elizabeth Ortigo, fourth trumpet; Caleb Ketcham, lead trombone; Michael Siegler, third trombone; Gabe Roberson, bass trombone; Andrew Breiymayer, drums; Niclas Steinkamp, guitar; Matthew Buckner, piano.

The band is under the direction of Bobby Castillo; assistant director is Jason Noyes.

The Crystal Group, Inc., producers of the Miss Texas Teen USA pageant announced the selection of two Tyler area teens competiting for the title.

Heather Henrichson, a junior at the Brook Hill School, to represent city of Roses in this year's contest. Her official title is Miss City of Roses Teen USA.

Taylor Clark, a senior at Grace Community High School, will represent Tyler in this year's contest. Her official title is Miss Tyler Teen USA.

They will travel to the Hilton Houston Post Oak Hotel in Houston Sunday for a weekend of rehearsals and competition culminating with the crowning of the winner in the final show and competition on Sunday.

More than 100 Texas contestants will compete in interview, swimsuit and evening gown competitions. The winner will bear the title of Miss Texas Teen USA for one year, traveling, meeting dignitaries, participating in official charity and social events, and representing pageant sponsors. She will also claim prizes which include jewelry, travel, wardrobe, and the honor of representing the Lone Star State in the premiere pageant for teenagers - Miss Teen USA, which will be produced during the days leading up to the 2008 Miss USA Pageant.