The Palm Beach Gardens Police Foundation is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Palm Beach Gardens Fire-Rescue to sponsor an Essay Contest as part of the Fire Chief’s Association of Palm Beach County’s Annual September 11th Remembrance Program.
The essay contest serves as an inspirational vehicle for local youth to strengthen their appreciation of the historical importance of the events of September 11th, 2001 and to improve their understanding of the impact that the terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, DC and Shanksville, PA had on our nation.
The contest is open to students in grades 9-10-11-12 who are residents of the City of Palm Beach Gardens or are the dependents of persons currently employed by either Palm Beach Gardens Fire-Rescue or the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department.
The topic chosen for the essay is: “Reflect on how the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 impacted one of the following: you personally, a family member or friend, your community or the nation as a whole.”
The Essay should be between 500 and 700 words and must be the original work of the student. Entrants must submit their essay by August 17th, 2015. Judging will be performed anonymously by a committee made up of representatives from Fire-Rescue, the Police and local professional educators.
Three awards will be distributed in the form of American Express Gift cards. First place is $500, Second place is $300 and Third place is $200.
In announcing the Essay Contest, Police Foundation President Tom Murphy said, “Remembering the events of September 11th is easy for most Americans. But for many high school students it’s a day that generates no memories or understanding of what happened or why. This Essay Contest is aimed at engaging the youth of our community and helping them understand the importance of the events that resulted in the deaths of 3,000 American citizens”.