As we approach the two hundredth anniversary of our nation's birth, it is appropriate to appraise America's successes and failures in the light of the Declaration of Independence. The bicentennial should not be marked by celebration alone; it is rather an opportunity for national self‑evaluation and critical questioning. How far have we come in achieving the goals of our revolutionary beginnings?

Students are invited to write an editorial or special commentary which contributes to an understanding of some aspect of the Declaration in today's society.

All entries should be submitted by Wednesday, March 14, to room R‑210; and the best entry will be published in the following Westerner (March 23).

This published entry will then be submitted to Bryn Mawr College for a possible prize of first place, $500; second place, $250; and three third places, $100 each. The award money will be split 50‑50 with the author and the newspaper depending on which place (if any) the article takes.

The contest encourages you to relate your article to some aspect of your school or community which might benefit by evaluation in terms of the Declaration.