Deadline nears for MLK Jr. art, essay contest

The Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Art and Essay Contest has the theme, "Remember! Celebrate! Act! -- What Would Dr. King Say If He Were Alive Today?" The contest deadline is approaching soon.

For the art contest for kindergarten to 12th grade, submitted artwork should relate to the theme. Picture an activity, something that an individual or group could do which exemplify his teaching and philosophy. The artwork must be no larger that 16 by 20 inches and be mounted or matted for hanging. The entry form must be completely filled out, and pasted or taped to the back of the artwork.

For the essay contest for seventh to 12th grades, essays should relate to the theme. Describe an activity, something that an individual or group could do which exemplify his teaching and philosophy. The essay must be no more than 250 words, typed or neatly written on 8.5-inch by 11-inch white paper. It must be mounted or matted for hanging. The entry form must be completely filled out and taped to the back of the mounted or matted essay.

All entries must be submitted by 4 p.m. Dec. 14 to Dorothy Brandon at Elgin's city hall, 150 Dexter Court. A school representative, parent, family or church member must make a student's submission. A panel using the following criteria will judge all entries: how well the art or essay represents the student's understanding of King's ideas of civil rights; creativity and originality; and how well the art or essay communicates the theme.

For the art contest, first- to third-place awards will be presented in each of four groups: kindergarten to third grade, fourth to sixth grade, seventh to eighth grade, and high school.

For the essay contest, first- to third-place awards will be presented in each of two groups: seventh to eighth grade, and high school. The first-place winner will receive $100; second-place winners, $75; and third-place winners, $50.

The winning student and their principal or person who submitted their entry will be notified by Jan. 4. Awards will be presented at the Martin Luther King Jr. public program at 4 p.m. Jan. 20 at Larkin High School auditorium in Elgin.