RYE COVE — A Scott County student has taken the top prize in a regional essay contest overseen by Optimist International. Josh Jones, a recent graduate of Rye Cove High School, competed against students from North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee to win the contest in the North Carolina West district. He received $2,500 for his win, which will go toward his college expenses. About the contest The essay contest is open to any high school student and requires them to write on a certain theme.