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Chisago Lakes seniors Ariel Novak and Tom McGurk were presented their Minnesota State High School League Triple "A" (Academics, Arts, and Athletics" Awards during the halftime of the boys' basketball game Tuesday, February 26.

The purpose of the Triple A program is to recognize and honor high school seniors who have excelled in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in the fine arts. Each school may nominate one male and one female for this award.

To be eligible for the Triple "A" Award, a student must:

• be a high school senior

• have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

• participate in League-sponsored athletics and fine arts activities

• comply with the League's Student Code of Conduct

• and complete an application form.

Ariel Novak

Novak, daughter of James and Barbara Novak of Lindstrom, is a leader of the girls hockey and softball teams, earning letters each season since 8th grade, plus receiving many conference and team honors. She has also lettered in three fall sports; volleyball, tennis and soccer and has earned a letter in the summer weight lifting program four years.

She has participated in Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble and has performed at region competitions. She is active in National Honor Society, Link Crew and Kitten Club Mentorship Programs, and has been involved in DECA and community service.

Tom McGurk

McGurk, son of James and Roxanne McGurk of Taylors Falls, is an outstanding swimmer, lettering every year since eighth grade. He is the 2008 Section 4A champion and school record holder in the 200 meter individual medley and the 100-meter breast stroke and is the North Suburban Conference record holder in the breast stroke.

Tom is also a runner, lettering in cross country and track throughout his high school career. He has played the Electric Bass and Upright Bass in Concert, Symphonic, Jazz and Stage Bands and Wind Ensemble. He has been a featured soloist, earning superior ratings at contests and has performed with small groups in the Variety Show.

McGurk and Novak high grade point averages, ranking very high in their class.

This year's Region 7AA winners are Tricia Miller from Cambridge-Isanti High School and Eric Seivert from St. Francis High School. State winners will be announced during the Boys' State Basketball Tournament in March, and $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to a girl and a boy from both Class A and Class AA.

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