01/17/2025
Spread the love

Staff report

Contributed photo

Clarkton, NC — The Bladen Journal celebrated the creative talents of young writers at the Youth Writing Contest awards ceremony held yesterday at the Clarkton School of Discovery. The event highlighted exceptional storytelling and gave participants the opportunity to share their work and receive recognition for their achievements.

Mark DeLap, editor of the Bladen Journal, hosted the contest and praised the budding authors for their dedication and creativity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent in the community.

Bladen Pulitzer Prize Winners:

• 1st Place: Tyrone Freeman for “Feeding Your Dog”

• 2nd Place: Brooklyn Sasser for “Water Pollution”

• 3rd Place: Camryn Wood for “God of the Dark Realm”

Cronkite Award Winners:

• 1st Place: Luke Bridgers for “Social Media’s Negative Impact on Children: An Attention Needing Concern”

• 2nd Place: Brooklyn Sasser for “Water Pollution”

• 3rd Place: Tyrone Freeman for “Feeding Your Dog”

Luke Bridgers, the winner of the Cronkite Award, earned the distinction of contributing a monthly column to the Bladen Journal for the remainder of the school year. His first-place essay addressed the critical issue of social media’s effects on children, showcasing his thoughtfulness and awareness of contemporary challenges.

Organizers expressed gratitude to the participants and their families, as well as to the educators who supported the students throughout the contest. The Bladen Journal reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a love of writing and storytelling in the community.

As the ceremony concluded, applause filled the room, celebrating not just the winners but all who participated. The event was a reminder of the power of words and the potential of young voices in shaping the future.

staff report
Author: staff report

About Author