Jessica Martinez wins a trip to New York and Washington D.C. with the American Heritage Club

Winning an essay competition, eighth-grader Jessica Martinez wins the free trip American Heritage Club offered.

The MacArthur American Heritage Club held and essay competition allowing a student to win a free trip to New York and Washington D.C. for one of its members.  The winner, eighth-grader Jessica Martinez, wrote a five paragraph essay on why she deserved to go on the trip.  This contest took place on January 31.  Each participant had one, 50 minute period to complete the essay.  Washington D.C. has historical significance because it is America’s capital.

The American Heritage club advisor, Mr. Ray Gonzales, said, “I want to read an essay that’s authentic, comes from their heart on what this trip means to them.” A trip costs $1,900, and this contest was just for members in the club, or somebody who has attended most of the meetings.

Jessica said, “Since I was a kid traveling has interested me, and New York is a place I’ve always wanted to visit.”  She tried her best on writing and felt somewhat confident but was not sure if she would win.

If the winner had already paid for the trip, the money would be refunded back to him/her in the form they paid for.  The trip is during summer, beginning June 24.

During the trip, 34 student members will be sightseeing throughout these two Atlantic cities, visiting New York and Washington D.C., paying visits to museums and the Statue of Liberty.  Also, they get to share the experience with their friends, others in the club.

This club began about 12 years ago by sixth-grade Social Studies Teacher Mr. Ron Cheser.  American Heritage Club was made to promote patriotism and promote the history of our country.  This club’s significance includes their patriotic values, and they visit historical sites throughout America each Summer.