FORMER RESIDENT PLACES 3RD IN MS. WHEELCHAIR AMERICA

Carrie Smith Padgett, formerly of Cape Girardeau, has been named second-runner in the Ms. Wheelchair America competition held in Denver.

Padgett competed after serving as Miss Wheelchair Tennessee. She was judged with other candidates on academic, vocational and personal abilities since the onset of the disability.

She is a kindergarten teacher in Nashville, Tenn. She also works with Easter Seals, Ronald McDonald House and is a peer counselor. She also teaches G.E.D. for handicapped adults and works with the Center for Independent Living and the Think First program.

She received the Nashville Mayor's award for enhancing the environment of people with disabilities and Otahki Girl Scout recognition for outstanding women. She participates in scuba diving, water skiing and tennis.

Terri Ramsey, a paraolympic fencer and graduate of the University of Louisville, was named Ms. Wheelchair America. Llena Cruz, an accountant from Florida, was the first runner-up.

Padgett graduated from Cape Girardeau Central High School in 1987. She is the daughter of Edwin and Janet Smith of Cape Girardeau.