Spouse's club awards scholarships Published May 6, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Joseph "Kap" Kapinos 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Spouses, along with senior wing leaders gathered together to reward hard efforts and academic achievement by awarding college scholarships during a banquet April 29. The scholarships, totaling $10,000, were awarded on behalf of the Incirlik Combined Spouse's Club. The club is a non-profit organization whose mission is to organize and sponsor charitable and social activities on base, along with educational events such as the scholarship program, which has been awarding scholarships to outstanding high school and continuing education students. "Spouses clubs across the Air Force have been giving out scholarships for many years, said Karla Barker, ICSC president. "I know that I have been a part of this program at the bases where we have been stationed and that has been close to 17 years worth of scholarships," said Karla Barker. The spouse's club raises its scholarship funds for the year through many programs said Karla Barker. It's is able to accomplish its mission through providing volunteers to the base Thrift Shop, annual funnel cake sales, along with various other activities. "The scholarship program is open to high school seniors and those spouses who are working on continuing their education," she said. "There are application packets all over the base and a number of criteria are examined. We take a look at their grade point average, standardized test scores, an essay they write and with the spouses, a resume which details their volunteer work among other things." Awarding the scholarships was the highlight of the evening. Lt. Col James Collins, 39th Security Forces commander and guest speaker, added his own touch of both wisdom and levity to the occasion, showing the attendees an important book they should have in their library. It was the Dr. Seuss book, "Oh, the places you'll go." "You have an incredible opportunity, an incredible start to your life being here in Turkey," said Lt. Col Mullins. "Your whole world is opening up and you have learned what you need for yourself, the hard work and discipline. Where ever you go, keep your eyes open and your priorities in line and all of your efforts will pay off." The 2008 scholarship recipients are: High School Seniors Davontae L. Jackson - $1,000 Alaina M. Koonst - $2,000 Jacob A. Molnar - $3,000 Danielle E. Reddick - $2,000 Spouses continuing their education Deanne M. Acree - $500 Autumn C. Hake - $500 Kerry D. Shrewsbury -$1,000