Seven students received checks for $1,000 each as first installments on up to four years of Carl W. Stenberg, Jr. scholarship support. They are young persons who have turned their lives around through the Student Assistance Program. They were selected from among 16 finalists out of 137 applicants.

The 1998 winners are: Jennifer Kaval, Shippensburg; George J. Gencarelli, East Stroudsburg; Bethany Seib, Erie; Jeremiah J. Blasik, Turtle Creek; Larisa Palmentere, Forty Fort; Heidi A. Siwik, Pittsburgh; and Elias R. Gwinn, Blairsville.

Each recipient who has successfully completed a Student Assistance Program and was recommended by his or her school's team is eligible for up to $1,000 a year for as many as four years of post high school education. The students must remain drug and alcohol free and maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average while in college.

The Foundation is now awarding $20,000 a year in scholarships. Since the fund was established in 1993, 26 scholarships have been awarded.

In the photo, Robert T. Addleman, Jr. (right), D.D.G.M., 57th Masonic District, presents a check to Heidi Siwik, who will be attending the University of Pittsburgh. At left is Walt Fanok, Guidance Counselor and Scholarship Coordinator at Baldwin High School.