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May 26, 2015 (Lemon Grove)--The Lemon Grove Historical Society announces the winners in its 2015 Bobby Carroll 8th Grade History Essay Competition. The Annual Bobby Carroll 8th Grade History Essay Competition is made possible by the Mary England Endowment for Education and is named for Ms. England's late son. This year’s winners are:
David Rodriguez, 1st Prize. Teacher, Doris Christopher; school, Vista La Mesa Academy; thematic quote, George Washington.
Hannah Gonzalez, 2nd Prize. Teacher, Frank Wulftange; school, Lemon Grove Academy for the Sciences & Humanities; thematic quote, Benjamin Franklin.
There is a tie for 3rd place:
Alissa Laverdiere, 3rd Prize. Teacher, Frank Wulftange; school, Lemon Grove Academy for the Sciences & Humanities; thematic quote, Benjamin Franklin.
Melesio Huizar, 3rd Prize. Teacher, Doris Christopher; school, Vista La Mesa Academy; thematic quote, George Washington.
Awards will be presented on June 9 at 6 p.m. at the Lemon Grove School Board meeting, Putnam Community Room, Lemon Grove Library, 3001 School Lane.
The essay topic was "How do we achieve virtue and freedom in a democratic republic form of government?" Using a Persuasive Essay format, students chose from four quotes by the Founders as the basis for their arguments:
"Government is not reason; it is not eloquence; it is force. Like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action." (George Washington)
"Only virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters." (Benjamin Franklin)
"We in America do not have government by the majority--we have government by the majority who participate...All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent." (Thomas Jefferson)
"The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty." (James Madison)
After extensive discussion, the four-member jury was unanimous in its choice of the winners.
Juror Donna Lupinacci, a master teaching nurse in several institutions, observed, "The four students outdid themselves in tackling the complex historical, political and philosophical question of virtue and personal responsibility in relation to freedom."
Historical Society president Helen Ofield said, "They drew upon key historical events, demonstrated personal and emotional engagement with the topic and vigorously articulated outspoken views of America's trajectory from wilderness colonies to advanced, urban civilization.
The jury expressed gratitude to History teachers Doris Christopher and Frank Wulftange for their leadership, inspiration and ability to make history live for their students, and to the English teachers for the growth in superior writing skills among their eighth graders.
More information: 619-460-4353 or lghistorical@
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