When Krystal Cooper, 16, discusses what she learned in two weeks shadowing professionals at Convergys, teamwork comes to mind.

        “I learned that in order to get things done, you have to work as a team,” she said.

        Krystal is part of a team that developed a Web site under the company's Link Program. Convergys developed the program to give youths hands-on experience in professional technology, said Marcia Futel, senior manager of information technology for Convergys.

        “The program links Convergys to the community and the students to their careers,” Ms. Futel said.

        As for Krystal, a sophomore at Western Hills High School who plans to major in either environmental engineering or human resource development, the experience gave her some insight to her future - a future that will depend on how well she works with others.

        She worked with Alexander Peytchev, 17, a senior at Withrow, and LaShelbrin Peake, 17, a senior at Woodward, to develop the Web site.

        “I pretty much designed the Web site because I had prior knowledge,” Alexander said. “My knowledge blended in with the other students' knowledge in the English.”

        Alexander, of Clifton, is from Bulgaria and plans to major in computer engineering.

        LaShelbrin, who plans a major in engineering or crime scene investigation, lives in Westwood.

        “The one thing I learned working on this project is that it takes a lot of time and patience to get something done,” she said. “We had to be very detailed in putting the project together.”

        To view the students' projects, visit the Web site they created: http://Links.convergys.com.

        The Link Program ended Friday in a ceremony at Convergys headquarters, 600 Vine St., which included a demonstration of the students' projects.

        “Employees took time out to work with and speak to the students,” Ms. Futel said. “They learned teamwork, technical skills and specialized computer skills. They were given a tour of our database center.”

        Other students in the program: Brittney Griffith, Laurel Thomas, Curtis Dennis, Maurisha Jenkins, Dante Pankey, Lashonda Hill and Keith Futel, all of Withrow; Camille Turner, Tambra Smoot and Andre Barker of Western Hills; Jasmine Banks of Hughes; and Rashawn Harrison, who attends a STEP program operated by the Cincinnati Public Schools at 2901 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills.

        Convergys is a global leader in integrated billing, employee care, and customer care services provided through outsourcing or licensing.

        At 5:40 p.m. Friday at Gate 13, bidding started for the Cincinnati Reds Community Fund “Jersey Off Their Back” fund-raising promotion.

        Reds fans may bid for autographed jerseys from members of the club's current roster. The silent auction runs through Sept. 13.

        Allen Howard's “Some Good News” column runs Sunday-Friday. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, or people who are uplifting to the Tristate, let him know at 768-8362, at ahowardenquirer.com or by fax at 768-8340.

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