We start today with a story about Casa Grande Union student Alexis Fernan, whose trap shooting skills have awarded her one-of-a-kind opportunities. Fernan placed eighth in the National High School Finals Rodeo last year and is set to compete in the Arizona High School Rodeo Association finals in June, where she hopes to punch her ticket to another championship event.

Speaking of talented students, a former Casa Grande resident will receive their high school diploma soon. Johnny Bottrell, a special needs student, will graduate from Sierra Academy in Scottsdale. Bottrell has cerebral palsy as well as Williams syndrome, a developmental disorder commonly associated with intellectual disability, heart problems and other issues. Read more about his journey and how he’s defied the odds.

Lastly, in Arizona news, Republican lawmaker Liz Harris, who was previously expelled, will not be sent back to the Arizona House of Representatives. Maricopa County Board of Supervisors instead selected Republican Julie Willoughby to replace her, despite Republican precinct committee members in her legislative district giving Harris the most votes.