Governor launches Sesquicentennial themed statewide poster, essay contest

As part of the upcoming Nevada Day celebrations and to help kick-off the celebration of Nevada’s Sesquicentennial, Governor Brian Sandoval today launched his annual statewide poster and essay contest for Nevada school children. This year’s theme focuses on Nevada’s Sesquicentennial, celebrating 150 years in statehood.

The contest, which is open to all Nevada school children in grades K through 12, in district, charter, private or home schools, includes four categories depending on grade level.

Students in grades K through 3 should create an 11”x17” poster in any medium, illustrating a way that Nevada has affected the history of the United States since becoming a state in 1864.

Students in grades 4 and 5 should write a handwritten or typed essay of 250 words or less on what they believe is the most significant thing Nevada has done since becoming a state in 1864.

Students in grades 6 through 8 should write a typed, double-spaced essay of 500 to 750 words on how, in their opinion, adding Nevada as a state has changed the nation.

Students in grades 9 thru 12 should write a typed, double-spaced essay of 750 to 1,000 words responding to the following question: would you have granted Nevada statehood given the circumstances?

All entries must include the child’s name, address, grade, home phone number and school. Entries should be mailed to Governor’s Poster and Essay Contest, P.O. Box 22656, Carson City, NV 89721.

All entries must be post marked no later than Oct. 9.

Awards for each grade group are as follows: 1st Place, $100 gift card; 2nd Place, $50 gift card; and 3rd Place, $25 gift card. Prizes were made possible through private funding.

This year’s contest theme is dedicated to the Nevada Sesquicentennial. Starting Nevada Day 2013, Nevadans and tourists will be encouraged to participate in more than 150 events, share the state’s heritage through cultural and arts programs and engage in initiatives and activities that make the state of Nevada unique. For information about Nevada 150, visit www.nevada150.org.