Two from Carroll FCCLA to compete in nationals

Comet staff report

More than 600 Family, Career and Community Leaders of America members, advisors, alumni, and guests from around Indiana gathered in Indianapolis for the 2006 Indiana FCCLA State Leadership Conference.

Carroll chapter sent five groups to compete in National Star Events competition. Indiana's theme this year was "Toward New Horizons," which is also the motto of the FCCLAorganization.

During the conference, members attended several mini-sessions, general sessions, a business meeting, where Carroll's own Savanah Stevens was again elected a state officer, and a luau on opening night.

Bryan Fiese, a motivational speaker from Dallas, Texas, challenged members to head "Toward New Horizons" with Indiana FCCLA.

Carroll's 11 members, advisors Diana Alter and Cindy Reinke, and a parent, Donna Snapp, were among those attending.

Carra Snapp and Jaclyn Miller won a gold medal and the honor of competing at National Conference in Nashville, Tenn., in July. Their chapter service project was about preventing bullying.

Alternates to nationals were Britanny Reef, Robin Guise and Savanah Stevens, in Chapter Showcase project.

Also winning gold were Cally Ayres and Jason Hazel in the Chapter Service project involving the Kokomo Rescue Mission.

Winning silver were Devin Smith and Nicole Brafford in the Focus on Children project about Carroll members interacting with a preschool for children with disabilities.

Holly Lawrence won in a state project involving a presentation and construction of a childcare learning packet.

Savanah Stevens was recognized for completing the Power of One national project.

Carroll's chapter was recognized for contributing to state scholarships and entering national competition in Student Body and Community Service projects.

Carroll chapter was represented by voting delegate Kierstyn Harper, who interviewed and observed the 14 candidates vying for 12 state officer positions.. She gave her decision on the slating of the officers at the business meeting.

Savanah Stevens was elected state vice president of community service. She was instrumental in the planning of the conference this year as state vice president of public relations, and was in charge of the opening session, along with advisor Diana Alter. Stevens was supported in her efforts by all Carroll members, and her family, Mark and Cecelia Stevens and brother Isiah were present for all sessions.

Advisor Diana Alter has put in 16 years of service to FCCLA. She was given a plaque at the advisors breakfast and recognized at the general session. She will be retiring at the end of this school year.

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members. It is the only career and technical in-school student organization with family as its central focus. Participation in state programs and chapter activities helps members become strong leaders in their families, careers and communities.

For more information about FCCLA and family and consumer sciences, contact Diana Alter at Carroll Jr.-Sr. High School or visit www.indianafccla.org.