March 11, 2008 – The Duanesburg Republican Club had a hard time selecting the top three finalists out of 13 entries in their second annual essay contest. But in the end, Richie Kennedy, Chris Hyrny and Anny Miner were chosen as this year’s winners.

“They all had a lot to say, so it was really difficult,” said club president Barbara Watt.

Duanesburg High School juniors were invited to reflect on their role as American citizens—discussing concepts they learned as part of the eleventh-grade course curriculum on American history and government.

The essays explored a variety of topics such as the importance of becoming an educated voter, getting involved in the
local community and helping candidates run for election.

The goal behind the contest is to have students learn about the importance of democracy and help them understand that their thoughts and opinions are important. It also provides students with an opportunity to express what they learned in class.
 
“You encouraged my faith in the younger generation,” said Watt, as she presented awards to the top three winners.

Kennedy placed first, winning a $100 check and certificate of achievement.

“His essay was very good,” said Watt. “He had a lot of great points.”

In his essay, Kennedy focused on the importance of voting, supporting the government and serving the local community. He wrote, "As American citizens, we are called upon to play many roles in society. Some of these roles are quite obvious and important such as voting. Other roles include supporting the country by aiding the government, as well as giving a hand in your local neighborhood to help others. All of these things and many others are critical roles of the American citizen, and by fulfilling these roles we are able to support our great country and its ideals."  

Hyrnry placed second while Miner earned third place. The students received a $50 and $25 check, respectively, along with certificates of achievements.

They will also receive a certificate from the state assembly.

“I’m pleased with the results,” said social studies teacher Sue Clark. “There were a lot of students who wrote from their heart.”

Clark and social studies teacher Karen Kanarkiewicz reviewed a total of 85 entries and narrowed the selection down to 13 finalists for judging by the Duanesburg Republican Club.

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