Ranch seeks student essays

Lakewood Ranch Community Activities, the East County Observer and Florida Bank are hosting a student essay contest to help commemorate the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

The contest is in conjunction with the community’s Lakewood Ranch Remembers event.

The contest is open to all third- through fifth-graders, middle-schoolers and high-schoolers who attend school in the East County. Questions vary by age group and are as follows:

Third- through fifth-graders: What is your picture of an American hero? Third-grade essays must be at least 80 words; fourth-grade essays at least 125 words; and fifth-grade essays at least 225 words.

Middle-schoolers: What does freedom mean to you? Essays must be at least 400 words.

High-schoolers: How has 9/11 changed your perception of what it means to be an American? Essays must be at least 500 words.

Our judges will choose one winner from each grade level. Each will receive a $100 savings bond courtesy of Florida Bank. Winners also must be able to read their essays at the Lakewood Ranch Remembers event, Sept. 10, at Premier Sports Complex.

Essays may be submitted to Executive Editor Michael Eng, [email protected]. Please put “Essay Contest” in the subject line. Be sure to include your name, phone number and school.

For more, call 755-5357.