Inventing a solar, rechargeable, hand-held flashlight has won a ninth-grade high school student the top honor in Utah Power's 12th annual electric contest in southern Utah.
Steven Kersksiek, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Kersksiek of Beaver, was recognized for his achievement in competition among 912 students who entered the contest. Some 13 schools in six school districts competed for prizes.Kersksiek has patented his invention.
First-place winners in age divisions, and their schools, are Wendy Henningson, Manti High School; Kris Sorenson, North Sevier Middle School in Salina; Nanette Sorensen, Ephraim Middle School; and Sara Bytheway, Red Hills Middle School in Richfield.
Second places were won by Susan Wright, Delta High School; Jessica Barney, North Sevier Middle School; Kristen Bauer and Aimee Miller, Cedar City Middle School; and Sara Price and Johanna McVey, Ephraim Middle School.
Third-place winners were Korilane Fuents, Ericka Frischknecht and Marguerite Nuttal, Manti High School; Terry DeMille, North Sevier Middle School; Heidi Fuellenbach, Red Hills Middle School; and Kaleb James and Bryce Bailey, Milford Elementary.
Honorable mentions went to Jonathan Jensen and Paul Williams, Manti High School; David Kersksiek, Beaver High School; Toni Davis and JaLee Barney, Red Hills Middle School; Cody Michelsen, North Sevier Middle School; Tuskin Curtis, Wayne County Middle School; and Maquade Chesley, Ephraim Middle School.