Grant County sixth-graders can enter the annual essay contest sponsored by the Lone Pine Tree Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The 2008-09 topic is “What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our war-torn nation in 1863, and how are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our country today?”

The contest is open to students in public, private, parochial and home school.

The first-place prize is $50, second place is $20, and all entrants receive a certificate. The winner’s home room also receives a history text book.

The deadline to enter is Jan. 5. Send essays to Dorothy Robertson, Regent, Lone Pine Tree Chapter, P.O. Box 30, La Grande, OR 97850. Info: 541-446-3385, 541-523-5705 or 541-963-3388.