Sen. Delph Encourages Fourth-graders to Join
Statehood Day Annual Essay Contest, Celebration

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 4, 2012) – State Sen. Mike Delph (R-Carmel) urges local fourth-grade students to celebrate Indiana’s 196th birthday by entering the annual Statehood Day essay contest and answering the question, “What does Indiana mean to you?” before Oct. 29.

Local fourth-grade classrooms are also invited to attend Statehood Day celebrations in Indianapolis on Tuesday, Dec. 11. Those who are able to attend the Indianapolis festivities will interact with special guests from all three branches of state government and historical agencies.

Space is limited and classrooms must be registered. Teachers can contact Capitol Tour Office Coordinator Jennifer Hodge at 317-233-5293 or jhodge@idoa.in.gov to sign up.

Indiana became the nation’s 19th state on Dec. 11, 1816. 

“Writing about ‘What Indiana Means to Me’ provides the opportunity for fourth-grade students to explore their home state and think about what it means to be a Hoosier,” Delph said. “Our state has a proud history and this contest is a great way for young Hoosiers to share that history with others.”

Delph added that the essay competition is open to any fourth-grade public, private or home-schooled student and is easy to enter. The following rules apply:

• Essays must include the student’s name, a teacher or parent’s name, school’s name and contact information, including address and telephone number.
• Entries must range from 100 to 400 words, handwritten or typed.
• Students should convey what living in the state of Indiana means to them and highlight things that make them glad to be a Hoosier.
• Essays must be postmarked no later than Monday, Oct. 29. Mailed essays should be sent to:

Indiana Center for the Book
315 West Ohio St.
Indianapolis, IN 46202

Judges will choose first-, second-, third- and fourth-place winners. The first-place winner will be invited to read their essay during the Dec. 11 celebration at the Statehouse. For more information about the Statehood Day programs, visit www.in.gov/idoa/2774.htm.

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