Suffolk News-Herald

Two local teens were recently awarded $500 college scholarships by the Suffolk professional firefighters’ union, Local 2801 of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

Joshua A. Marks and Victor K. Outlaw were presented with the money during a ceremony in the North Suffolk Public Safety Center, said Local 2801 President J.R. Lilienthal.

&uot;Local 2801 is proud to be able to assist these outstanding students in the pursuit of their college and career aspirations,&uot; Lilenthal said &uot;These young men clearly represent what is ‘right’ about America.

&uot;The scholarship program is an opportunity for our members to give something back to our communities who so faithfully support us. The competition for the scholarships was tough, and we extend our best wishes to all who applied.&uot;

Marks, son of Benjamin and Wanda Marks of Courtland, is a freshman at Barton College in Wilson, N.C. He is studying criminal justice/fire science, with plans to pursue a career in law enforcement or professional fire service career. The June 2003 graduate of Southampton High School was recommended for the scholarship by teachers Diane Seward and Dorothy Jones.

During his high school career, he belonged to several clubs and received numerous honors. Marks, who graduated with a 3.1 grade point average while working a part-time job, also a volunteer with the Courtland Fire Department.

Outlaw, the son of Patty Outlaw of Portsmouth and Suffolk Fire Chief Mark Outlaw, is a sophomore at the University of Virginia. Dr. Donna L. Keene and retired Suffolk firefighter Gregory J. Cisco nominated the 2002 Nansemond River High School graduate for the scholarship.

At Nansemond River, Outlaw was active in school clubs, athletics and marching band. He also tested in the top 20 percent of chemistry students across the nation. He continues that tradition of hard work at U. Va., where he is earning a near-perfect grade point average as a chemistry major. He is also an avid astronomy buff.

Each year, one scholarship is presented to the child of a Suffolk-Franklin professional firefighter, and one to an at-large student from the Suffolk-Franklin area. Candidates are judged upon need, grade point average, community involvement, and a 200-word essay.

The scholarships are funded through union dues paid by Local 2801 members, but contributions to assist the program are gratefully accepted. Anyone wishing to make a donation can send it to Mike Brinkley, Secretary-Treasurer, IAFF Local 2801, P.O. Box 3279, Suffolk, Va. 23439-3279.