Patriotic Essay contest begins March 1
COEUR d'ALENE - Students, get ready to write and learn something about United States history.
The 2011 Knights of Columbus Patriotic Essay Contest begins March 1.
The theme of this year's competition is "What did President James K. Polk do for my family?"
"The primary objective for the Knights of Columbus is to create an awareness of the history of the United States in our students in grades six through eight, and an appreciation of the cultural heritage of our nation," said Graham Crutchfield, coordinator of the annual essay competition.
Public and private school pupils, and those who are home schooled, are encouraged to participate in the contest sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree, Bishop Kelly Assembly 185, Coeur d'Alene. Participation is limited to Kootenai County residents.
"We feel it's important for each generation to remind the younger students of the enormous sacrifices of previous generations that made it possible, our nation," Crutchfield said.
Regarding this year's essay theme, Crutchfield said Polk's presidency is "under-rated, under-reported and under-appreciated." He suggested a book, "A Country of Vast Designs," by Robert W. Merry, as "an excellent reference."
"President Polk served one term from 1844 to 1848. In that short period of our history he increased the size of the United States by one-third," Crutchfield said.
"The students should do the research so they will have much better appreciation of this incredible presidency of James K. Polk."
The contest is open to students in grades six through eight.
Essays may be submitted March 1 through April 15.
Three cash prizes will be awarded. The first-place winner will receive $200. Second place wins $100 and the third place prize is $50.
Entries will be judged by The Press editorial department.
They must be typewritten, double-spaced, on standard 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper.
Contact Graham Crutchfield for entry forms, 762-0773. Teachers can request a form to photocopy for students.
Completed forms and essays should be mailed to Graham Crutchfield, 11492 N. Stinson Loop, Hayden, ID 83835.