June 6, 1997 When it comes to words and numbers, they take the prize. Hundreds of "academically talented" fifth, sixth and seventh graders from throughout the state will be honored for their outstanding verbal and mathematical abilities by the Johns Hopkins University Institute for the Academic Advancement of Youth (IAAY) on Sunday, June 8, at the University of Oregon. The awards ceremony takes place from 1-3 p.m. in the Ballroom, Erb Memorial Union, 1222 E. 13th Ave. Based upon recommendations from public and private schools around the state, students were selected for participation in special academic abilities tests sponsored by the IAAY's annual Young Students Talent Search. Of the more than 1,000 Oregon students who took the tests, about 400 will be honored. Approximately 57,000 students from 19 states and the District of Columbia participated in the institute's 1997 talent searches. SOURCE: Margaret Smith, counselor, UO Office of Admissions, (541) 346-1284. -30- #T-4100/Local, Day