1993-1994 Harry Singer Foundation National Essay Contest
White Hats: People Who Are Trying To Make A Difference
Teacher: Dawna Edmonds
Seaman High School, Topeka, Kansas
1st Grant Anders 2nd Jason Dawdy 
3rd Kelly Shehi
"The
young people of Topeka know what is going on first hand. Instead of trying to
use statistics which are either out of date or averaged for the whole nation
(thus rendering them irrelevant to a specific community), the youth themselves
should be asked for input. They may not have all of the answers, but through
their ideas officials may be able to make a better informed decision."
Erik Pollom, Seaman High School,
Topeka, Kansas
"The
famous ice-cream maker, Ben and Jerry's Homemade, has introduced a new flavor
called Rain Forest Crunch made with brazil and cashew nuts taken from the rain
forests. These products were purchased from "unspoiled regions in an effort
to keep them that way."
Kristi Meyer, Seaman High School, Topeka, Kansas
"Teen
members of the New York Sullivan Street Players write plays and enact
them. These teens talk about such issues as racism, homelessness, abortion,
drugs, and even date rape. This little theater group also gives the members of
the group a chance to be creative in their dancing, singing, and acting."
Jason Norris, Seaman High School, Topeka, Kansas
"The
students at Cook-Wissahickon Elementary School in Philadelphia are doing their
part to help the environment and at the same time their community. They have
worked collecting cans and paper, and used them to build a house to be donated
to a recycling company that has a project for the homeless."
Kristi Meyer, Seaman High School, Topeka, Kansas