Northwest Georgia's Share America Foundation, Inc. announced its first 2009 scholarship winner at its Sacred Sounds Fridays concert. Fiddler and mandolinist Kayla Ray, 17, of Royston, was selected as the 2009 recipient. The concert featured Mountain Faith and Exception to the Rule at the Ringgold Depot in Ringgold.

The events help fund the organization’s Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship. Pearl and Floyd Franks are the late parents and former entertainment managers of actor/entertainer Randall Franks, "Officer Randy Goode" from TVs "In the Heat of the Night."

The scholarships honor students excelling in the Appalachian musical arts.

Ray was home schooled and now attends Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Ga.

"I'm very passionate about trying to help spread bluegrass music to others my age, so I was very honored and thankful to have received the 2009 scholarship," Ray said.

She performs with her siblings - Sara, 23, Laura, 21, Jason, 19, - in the band Exception to the Rule.

Their father, pianist Mark Ray, joined in on two 20-minute bluegrass gospel sets at the event.

Kayla received a $750 scholarship towards her college studies.

“Kayla is carrying on the traditional music of this region. She has a unique flair that shows in both her instruments,” said Randall Franks, Share America president. “I know my Mom and Dad would be pleased.”

Kayla said she plans to use the scholarship towards her educational needs to study communications and music.

She is the daughter of Mark and Anita Ray of Royston, and granddaughter of Boyd and Geneva Ray of Royston, and Talmadge and Eloise Cole, of Carnesville.

Share America Foundation Board members include Franks, Joe Turner, chairman; Gene Lowery, vice chairman; Adam Cathey, secretary and Jerry Robinson, Sr., vice president.

For more information about the organization and its programs, contact Share America, P.O. Box 42, Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755 or visit www.shareamericafoundation.org or www.myspace.com/shareamerica.