Teen songwriters winning accolades

Shelby Stevens

GRAND ISLAND, Nebraska -- A pair of songwriting teens from McCook are making their mark in the music world, bringing home trophies from the Nebraska State Fair.

Shelby Stevens, 14, of McCook won second place in the songwriting competition, performing her song, "Rise Above and Beyond," at the 9th annual Galaxy of Stars Talent Search at state fair on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1.

Riley Rambali, 15, daughter of Darcy and Travi Rambali of McCook, placed sixth in the same competition, with her original song, "Face." The pair co-wrote "Your Mighty Hand," which placed eighth.

Riley Rambali

Shelby also placed 14th with "Hold Me Together."

For second place, Shelby won $100 cash and a trophy, two hours, a $300 value recording session by Ware House Productions in Omaha.

The daughter of Jesse and Stephanie Stevens, Shelby has also played and sung with her father's quartet, the 4 Hyms, on occasion.

All Songwriters of the Top Fifteen Original Songs received a Galaxy of Stars Medal.