Students invited to enter essay contest

Kansas students, grades 8 to 12, can compete for a cash prize in the annual essay contest, "Kansas! Say It Above a Whisper." Essays must be limited to 250 words (about one double-spaced typewritten page) and must be submitted electronically by e-mail no later than Nov. 18.

Send entries to: Terry Marmet, Kansas Historical Foundation, via email to: membership@kshs.org. In subject area of the email include "Boyd Essay Contest." The author's name, school, grade level, mailing address, and phone number must be included on the essay.

Early-day Kansas newspaperwoman Mamie Boyd, whose family continues to provide the cash award for the winner, coined the contest title, which deals with pride in the state of Kansas. Past essays have described interesting and strong-hearted people of Kansas, the state's vast grain crops and grasslands, diversities in population, the state's unique beauty and the emotions and pride called to mind by that beauty.

Sponsored by the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas, the essay contest is judged by a panel consisting of staff members at the Kansas Historical Society and the foundation. The judges look for originality, creativity and sincerity in expressing pride in the state of Kansas.

The winner will be announced and recognized at the annual meeting of the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas in Topeka, Friday, Jan. 27, 2012. The Kansan of the Year, Distinguished Kansan and other honorees may be featured at the banquet.

Last year's first prize winner was Hosanna Fortmeyer, Fairview Kansas; 2nd: Leah Hill, Holton; 3rd: Sophia Evans, Baxter Springs; Honorable Mention: Dakota Wilkison, Phillipsburg.