The winners of the Marian Craig 2005-2006 Essay contest read their winning entries and received their prize money at the April 13th Humanist of Utah meeting. Kendra Walbeck, 9th grade student at South Jordan Middle School, was awarded first place, receiving $500.00 for her essay Why Join a Gang?" She says, "Teens join gangs for many reasons including low self esteem and a need for a sense of belonging." She urged parents and friends to help teens meet those needs "by giving them love, support and recognition."

Kendra Waleck, First Prize

A check for $250.00 was awarded to second place winner Megan Hurst for her entry regarding "Pressing Environmental Concerns." Megan is also a 9th grade student at South Jordan Middle School. Her essay observes that "Air along the Wasatch Front can get so dirty the pollution can be seen with the naked eye." She concluded, "If people took tiny steps and did little things to help, the environment would be much cleaner and everyone would benefit."

Megan Hurst, Second Prize

Both winners are students of Ms. Jill Moses, who received $250.00 for encouraging her students to participate in the Marian Craig Essay competition. She thanked the Humanists of Utah for getting students involved in community affairs.

Jill Moses, Teacher

Congratulations to all of the participants and especially the winners!

--Flo Wineriter