280Living.com
September 2015 • A15
Community CHS student participates in Law and Trial program
Chelsea High School sophomore Brianna Braden recently participated in the invitationonly Intensive Law & Trial program at Stanford Law School in Palo Alto, California. Photo courtesy of Brianna Braden.
Chelsea High School sophomore Brianna Braden recently participated in the invitation-only Intensive Law & Trial program at Stanford Law School in Palo Alto, California. The ten-day program for high school students is done in collaboration with Stanford Law School. The American Mock Trial Association endorses the curriculum. Scholars stay on the Stanford University campus and learn the foundation of law from preeminent legal professionals, which includes hearing from Stanford Law School professors on the practice of law, legal rhetoric and ethics. Students also receive firsthand practice using
essential legal skills such as making impactful opening and closing arguments, preparing cases and readying witnesses for cross-examinations. “This program inspired me to continue on my path to become a 21st century lawyer, with interest in child advocacy, and make a difference in the modern world to give children a voice to be heard,” said Braden. Braden is part of the YWCA Heritage Panel, a Special Education Peer Helper, and was recently chosen as a Student Ambassador representing CHS. -Submitted by Brianna Braden.
OMHS student earns Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen title
Kyra Callens and Hayley Barber were recently crowned Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen and Miss Shelby County 2016 in July. Photo courtesy of Pam Oliver.
By MADISON MILLER Kyra Callens of Oak Mountain High School was recently crowned Miss Shelby County Outstanding Teen 2016 at the Miss Shelby County Pageant in July. Kyra, 16, was selected from fellow applicants from Shelby, Chilton, Jefferson, Talladega, Bibb, Coosa and St. Clair counties between 12 and 17 years old. She was crowned along with Miss Shelby County 2016 Hayley Barber. Kyra first started pageants at 13 years old after her friend, Miss Shelby County 2015 Amanda Ford, encouraged her. “She started a long time ago,” Kyra said,
“[We knew] it was a great organization.” Kyra said talent was her favorite portion of the competition, which allowed her to showcase her skills in dance. “You get to show your own thing that’s different than anyone else,” she said. After being crowned the winner, Kyra was surprised but grateful for the experience. “I was not expecting it,” she said. “I was overwhelmed. It was a great experience.” Kyra will go on to represent Shelby County at the Miss Alabama Outstanding Teen Pageant in March. For more information, visit missshelbycounty.com.