We The People 9*17 About We The People 9*17...4

Transcription

1 Janine Turner Founder & Co-Chair Cathy Gillespie Co-Chair National Advisory Board Mrs. Laurel Asness The Honorable William J. Bennett The Honorable Bruce Cole The Honorable Anita McBride Mrs. Jeri Thompson Advisory Board Carol Alexander, Colorado Victoria Bauman, California Greg Casey, Virginia Horace Cooper, Virginia Holly Pellham Davis, Texas Chris Foster, Oregon Denise Teel Fuller, Texas Janice Gauntt, Texas Robert Gauntt, Texas Lindi Harvey, California Don Hodges, Texas Dede Pearcy, Texas Patt Parker, Maryland Elise Pistor, Texas Jeff Reed, Kentucky Peter Roff, Virginia LaRawn Scaife Rhea, Tennessee Barbara Snowden, Texas Don Weldon, Texas Jocelyn White, Texas TABLE OF CONTENTS Constituting America Mission Statement...2 About Constituting America...3 We The People 9*17 About We The People 9* We The People 9*17 Contest Information Elementary Student Rules Summary...5 Elementary Student Rules...6 Elementary Student Prizes...10 Elementary Student Flyer...11 Middle School Student Rules Summary...12 Middle School Student Rules...13 Middle School Student Prizes...17 Middle School Student Flyer...18 High School Student Rules Summary...19 High School Student Rules...20 High School Student Prizes...25 High School Student Flyer...26 College School Student Rules Summary...27 College School Student Rules College School Student Prizes...33 College School Student Flyer...34 Contest Sign-Up Sheet...35 Op-Eds by Janine Turner What Would Our Forefathers Think of America Today?...36 A Call To Arms for America s Parents...39 ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

2 Mission Statement If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be. ~Thomas Jefferson The American Constitution, signed on September 17, 1787, is as great a miracle as the ultimate victory from the British in Providence prevailed in both theatres. It was a monumental feat to beat the British in the Revolutionary War. Equally as awesome was the accomplishment of finding common ground amongst the varied American beliefs in writing the Constitution. Though our forefathers differed, they united in their mission, their vision: A republic; America, the beautiful; America, the hope. The American Constitution was the work of brilliant men with a vast knowledge of history and a thirst for righteousness. They believed that in order for American liberty to survive, her people must be educated. To quote John Adams, Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge of the people. Thus, the mission of Constituting America is based upon this principal: America will not and cannot survive unless her citizens, her children, and her students, are educated about the validity, necessity and Providential Divinity of the Constitution. The Constitution should not be dismissed or relegated to obsolescence, for as surely as this is done, democracy will meet its demise. Knowledge of the contents of the Constitution and the values of our founding fathers is pivotal to enduring these challenging times. A renewed, rekindled enthusiasm and a patriot s desire for the understanding of our Constitution begins with its accessibility. Our Mission is challenging the mindset of those who consider our Constitution to be antiquated. An enlightened America regarding her roots, her basis, and her thesis is the key to America s pertinent survival. Americans have rights. Americans must have knowledge to understand them. Constituting America s mission is to reach, educate and inform the youth and all citizens through modern technology and modern means, because we must not let those who devalue freedom dominate the debate. Janine Turner Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge of the people. ~John Adams ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

3 The mission of Constituting America is to reach, educate and inform America's youth and her citizens about the importance of the U.S. Constitution and the foundation it sets forth regarding our freedoms and rights. Constituting America is established to educate children and adults about the principles of the United States Constitution and the beliefs of our Founding Fathers. Constituting America projects include: *Promote annual Constitution Day and Citizenship Day each September 17 throughout the nation, at schools and city halls, to engage and energize citizens in celebrating the meaning of this landmark document that defines the principles of our government and the basic rights of its citizens. ~Create school and community projects to enhance understanding of the U.S. Constitution and the meaning of citizenship - Establish We the People 9.17 Constitution Day Annual Contest (including several categories such as essay writing, short film, public service announcement, and original song) for students with scholarships and prizes awarded to the selected winners. Winners receive national publicity and exposure! - Work with student government leaders to conduct school programs designed to stimulate student involvement and passion about the United States Constitution. ~Partner with selected organizations to enhance and expand Constitution Day and Citizenship Day activities. In 2010 Constituting America partnered with Let Freedom Ring to cosponsor encouraging public readings of the Constitution across America on the weekend of Constitution Day. ~Host a Teachers Blog on the Constituting America website, where teachers can share innovative ideas for teaching the United States Constitution. ~Encourage students and citizens to wear red clothing in celebration of Constitution Day. *Utilize entertaining multi- media and new media as teaching tools to engage and captivate students, and implement Constituting America designed curriculum (including DVD s, Apps for cell phones, social networking, etc.). Check out the We The People 9.17 Contest Road Trip Across America Video on the homepage of our website: This exciting and fun documentary profiles the 2010 We The People 9.17 Contest Winners and contains educational information about the United States Constitution and three branches of government. *Sponsor and promote educational reading projects, such as the reading of the Federalist Papers, with Constitutional Scholar guest essay commentary. Co- chairs Janine Turner and Cathy Gillespie join the discussion with their thoughts, and invite citizens to share their insights via the Constituting America Blog. *The Constituting America Bus traveled to the hometowns of contest winners in 2010 to recognize and promote these outstanding young people! We are currently seeking sponsors for our 2011 Constituting America Bus Trip Across America! The Constitution is the guide which I will never abandon. --George Washington For more information, please contact Cathy Gillespie at YES-0917 or by at constitutingamerica@yahoo.com ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

4 Janine Turner, motion picture and television actress, author, singer, inspirational speaker and founder of Constituting America, is leading a school and community effort designed to provide students with opportunities to learn historical content and develop personal and educational awareness through the study of the U.S. Constitution, its principles set forth by our Founding Fathers, its relevancy in our lives, and to provide educators with resources and training materials to enhance classroom teaching. To this end, Ms. Turner has called for Constituting America to sponsor a special project titled We the People 9.17 designed to commemorate the U.S. Constitution at schools throughout the nation each September 17, Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Constitution Day was first established by the U.S. Congress in 1940 as I am an American Day, held the third Sunday in May. It was re- established in 1952 as Citizenship Day, moving the date to September 17 to commemorate the September 17, 1787 signing of the U.S. Constitution at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, but retaining its original purpose of recognizing new citizens. In 2004 the U.S. Congress passed, and President George W. Bush signed into law, a provision changing the designation of September 17 to Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. The bill also requires that each educational institution receiving federal funds hold an educational program on the Constitution for students on September 17 of each year. We the People 9*17 conducts several activities at schools across America to engage and energize students in celebrating the history of the U.S. Constitution and its relevance in Americans lives today. Activities include: * Invitation to elementary, middle, high school and college students to enter the We the People 9.17 Constitution Day Contest with scholarship and prizes awarded~ ~The Contest categories include best poem and holiday card for elementary students; best essay and song for middle school students, best essay, song, PSA and short film for high school students and new for 2011 Constituting America has added a College Category, inviting college students to submit a PSA, short film, song or speech! All entries must be submitted by June 14, 2011 to We the People 9*17 Constitution Day Contest, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas See contest rules for more details. ~The Contest winners in each category will be notified prior to September 17, 2011, National Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Prizes will be awarded in each category. See accompanying material for more details. * On September 16, 2011 schools will be encouraged to conduct student assemblies or designate an appropriate time during school hours to recognize the importance of Constitution Day. To assist schools in their programming, Constituting America has produced an exciting and fun DVD showcasing the We the People 9*17 Constitution Day Contest winners and educational information about the U.S. Constitution and three branches of government. The DVD may be viewed from the website, or downloaded! * On Friday, September 16, 2011 (Constitution Day falls on a Saturday in 2011) schools will be encouraged to invite their students to participate in a Dress Out Day by wearing red, the color of the flag symbolizing hardiness and valor, in celebration and appreciation of the United States Constitution. header fgrgreregrhrt We the People 9*17 is rekindling and instilling passion and enthusiasm for learning about our United States Constitution and our country s founding principles. A patriot s desire to understand its meaning and its context begins with its accessibility. For each generation the contents and values of the Constitution and of the nation s Founders must be taught so that we may meet and overcome the challenges before us. The Constitution outlines the importance of our nation, a republic, and the meaning it provides for the hope of all mankind. Join Janine Turner in celebrating Constitution Day and Citizenship Day with We the People 9.17 activities on September 16 & 17, 2011! For more information about We the People 9*17 please contact Cathy Gillespie, Constituting America Co- Chair, at YES or at constitutingamerica@yahoo.com. ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

5 Elementary School Students Contest Rules Summary Grades K-5 Sign up for the contest online. Parent/Guardian must read Constituting America s Privacy Policy Guidelines and Notice to Parents, approve of student entering, and check parent statement on online form. One category entry per student. Elementary Students may submit Poem or Holiday Card. Poem subject must be Why the United States Constitution is Important to Me. Student may enter poem online, but MUST include student s name, age and grade on the poem. See Official Rules Section III for details. Holiday Card subject must be relevant to the United States Constitution and its importance to the student, and depict a drawing, no bigger that an 8x10 image, in pencil, pen, colors or paint. No Text. See Official Rules Section III for details. All holiday card entries must be mailed to Constituting America, and MUST include the student s name, age and grade on the back of the drawing. Electronic submissions due by 11:59 p.m. June 14 to WeThePeople917@yahoo.com. Mailed entries must be postmarked by June 14, All entry submissions must be accompanied by the entry form, with signed parental consent, and student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry. Please mail entries to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest PO Box 1988 Colleyville, TX Entries will not be returned. The winner gives Constituting America the rights to reprint and redistribute entries. The above rules are a summary only. Please consult Official Rules and Regulations, for complete instructions and guidelines. header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

6 We the People 9.17 Contest Official Rules and Regulations Effective November 1, 2010 For Elementary Students Section I General Rules for Elementary Students (Grades K- 5) Section II Qualifications Section III Instructions Section IV Judging Process Section V Awards and Prizes Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Section VII Disclaimer Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Section I General Rules for Elementary Students (Grades K-5) From November 1, 2010 to June 14, 2011 (the "Contest Period") Constituting America will conduct the "We the People 9.17" holiday card and poem contest (the "Contest") in the 50 States of the United States of America (including the District of Columbia), the U.S. Territories and the American Armed Forces Schools Abroad. The poem topic is: Why the United States Constitution is Important to Me! The holiday card must relate to the United States Constitution and its importance to the student. Instructions for the holiday card and poem are outlined in Section III. To enter, students and/or parent/guardians are encouraged to fill out the online Contest Sign- up form, indicating their intent to enter the contest, including the line on the form giving parental consent. Contest updates and deadline reminders will be sent to the students signing up for the contest in advance. To enter the poem, the completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent and poem entry may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to the P.O. Box below. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the poem. The holiday card entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted in hard copy form, with student s name, age and grade on back, to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

7 Entries must be received by by 11:59 p.m. June 14, 2011 or postmarked no later than June 14, As further detailed in Section VII entrants and parent/guardians agree to accept and be bound by all terms of these Official Rules and Regulations and the decisions of Constituting America, whose decisions are final with respect to all matters of the Contest. Only one entry per student is permitted. Incomplete, late or entries which contain unrequested information, or otherwise fail to comply with these Official Rules and Regulations will not qualify for consideration for the Contest. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians acknowledge and agree that the entry along with any and all documentation submitted therewith will become the sole property of Constituting America and will not be acknowledged or returned. Entrant and their parent/guardian represent and warrant that the entry is an original work and does not infringe on the intellectual property rights of any third party, is unpublished (in any form or medium) and has not won an award. Constituting America may edit any entries for grammar, modify for style only, and entrant and their parent/guardian hereby grant Constituting America a license to distribute submitted material to third parties for purposes of publication or production, to publicize the contest, with no additional notification or permission of the entrant or parent/guardian. Submitted material will only be used to further the educational mission and goals of Constituting America (please see Section VI for a Notice to Parents and Privacy Policy), including, but not limited to, the sale of the holiday cards on the Constituting America website, and use of the holiday card language, artwork or any parts thereof on t- shirts or other items for sale on the website, with proceeds benefiting Constituting America. Section II Qualifications The Elementary School Contest is open to all United States citizens or legal residents who are students in grades K- 5 for the academic year and are 5 to 12 years old at the time of entry, attending public, private, religious, home school program and charter schools. Students must attend school in one of the 50 States, District of Columbia, all U.S. Territories, or American Armed Forces Schools abroad. Section III Holiday Card and Poem Instructions 1. The Poem subject matter must be: Why the United States Constitution is important to me! Poem may be typed or handwritten, and submitted electronically or mailed. If submitted electronically, the poem should be saved in Word, version 2003 or higher, or as a PDF. Whether submitted electronically or in hard copy form, poem entry MUST include student s name, age and grade on the poem. 2. The holiday card must depict a drawing, no bigger than an 8x10 image, in pencil, pen, colors or paint that is relevant to the United States Constitution, and its importance to the student. Text may not be included. The holiday card must be submitted by U.S. Mail, may not be submitted electronically, and MUST include the student s name, age and grade on the back of the drawing. All entries must include the signed Contest Signup Form, available for download on the website. The form should be signed by the parent if the entrant is under 18, scanned in and accompany electronic submissions, or mailed in hard copy form for hard copy submissions.

8 Section IV-Judging Process After the expiration of the Contest Period, the judges selected by Constituting America will review all entries and submissions which comply with these Official Rules and Regulations and select one (1) winning poem and one (1) wining holiday card. Judges reserve the right to not make an award in any category. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Adherence to instructions stated in Section III 2. Poem: originality, neatness, spelling, grammar and form; Holiday card: artistic quality, originality, ability to reproduce, and neatness. The odds of winning are proportional to the amount of entries received. Winners will be notified no later than August 15, Section V Awards and Prizes The two elementary school winners will be contacted directly through contact information provided on the Contest Signup Form. Winners will also be announced on As a condition to receiving any awards, the winners must provide publicity photos and may be required to return a liability release and publicity release within 10 days following the date of notification. Winners will receive: BEST POEM 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Poem, Elementary School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Poem, Elementary School $100 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) BEST HOLIDAY CARD 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official holiday card, Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Official Holiday card, $100 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) All entrants and their parents/guardians are solely responsible for understanding and complying with any and all federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances that may apply to the entrants and the activities or business in which such entrants may engage. Tax consequences may be associated with the prizes received by a Contest winner, which may include, without limitation, an obligation to report as income and to pay taxes on such income to federal, state, or local authorities. It is the responsibility of each Contest winner to determine the tax consequences of the prizes received and to comply with all applicable laws in all respects. Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Upon submission of entry, the material entered becomes the property of Constituting America. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians grant Constituting America the right, unless prohibited by law, to use their names, cities and states of residence, pictures and likenesses without compensation, for the express purpose of advertising and publicity of the Contest in any

9 and all media, now or after. Entrants and their parent/guardian also grant Constituting America permission to use their name and materials submitted to further its mission as stated on Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents are posted on Entrant and his or her parent/guardian hereby agree and acknowledge the provisions set forth in the Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents. To receive further information about Constituting America, students, parents or guardians must click Sign Up for Updates on the front page of the website at Section VII Disclaimer Constituting America will administer any and all aspects of the Contest, including, without limitation, evaluating a student's qualification or material submission, judge selection, review of entry documents and information, determination of prize winners, all of which is in the sole and absolute discretion of Constituting America. Any and all decisions of Constituting America relating to the administration of the Contest are final in all respects and no student, parent /guardian or person or organization related thereto, has a right to appeal, contest, and dispute or otherwise challenge such administration. Constituting America is not responsible for (i) incorrect or inaccurate entry information whether caused by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized by this contest or by any human error which may occur in the processing of entries into this contest; or (ii) for lost, late, misdirected or delayed entries or electronic transmission errors or technical malfunctions. If for any reason, the Contest is interrupted, delayed or negatively affected by any causes beyond the control of Constituting America, Constituting America reserves the right to cancel, modify or delay the Contest. Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Constituting America will not discriminate in any manner, including on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in its administration of the Contest. Each eligible entry submitted will be evaluated upon the merit of its contents and the criteria described in Section IV. This Contest is governed by the internal laws of the state of Texas without regard to principles of conflict of laws. If any provision of these Official Rules and Regulations is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision herein.

10 Elementary School AWARDS & PRIZES BEST POEM 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Poem, Elementary School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Poem, Elementary School $100 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) BEST HOLIDAY CARD 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Official Holiday Card, Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Official Holiday Card, $100 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

11 Calling All Elementary Students *CONTEST* We the People 9.17 Contest *Know your U.S. Constitution?! *Know your rights as an American citizen?! 1. Design a Holiday Card 2. Write a Poem Win Prizes!!!!! Entries Due June 14, 2011 For more details visit: header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

12 Middle School Students Contest Rules Summary Grades 6-8 Sign up for the contest online. Parent/Guardian must read Constituting America s Privacy Policy Guidelines and Notice to Parents, approve of student entering, and check parent statement on online form. One category entry per student. Middle School Students may submit a Song or Essay. Song subject must be What the United States Constitution Means to Me. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the song. Song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music written by the student (s) no longer than 3:20, sung and recorded by the students onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted, and student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the package. Song entry must be submitted by mail. See Official Rules Section III for details. Essay topic is Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Essay must be no longer than 850 words, typed or handwritten. Essay entry may be mailed or submitted electronically, but MUST include student s name, age and grade on every page of the essay. See Official Rules Section III for details. Electronic submissions due by 11:59 p.m. June 14 to WeThePeople917@yahoo.com. Mailed entries must be postmarked by June 14, All entry submissions must be accompanied by the entry form, with signed parental consent, and student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. Please mail entries to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest PO Box 1988 Colleyville, TX Entries will not be returned. The winner gives Constituting America the rights to reprint and redistribute entries. The above rules are a summary only. Please consult Official Rules and Regulations, for complete instructions and guidelines. header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

13 We the People 9.17 Contest Official Rules and Regulations Effective November 1, 2010 For Middle School Students Section I General Rules for Middle School Students (Grades 6-8) Section II Qualifications Section III Instructions Section IV Judging Process Section V Awards and Prizes Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Section VII Disclaimer Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Section I General Rules for Middle School Students (Grades 6-8) From November 1, 2010 to June 14, 2011 (the "Contest Period") Constituting America will conduct the "We the People 9.17" essay and song contest (the "Contest") in the 50 States of the United States of America, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories and the American Armed Forces Schools Abroad. The essay topic is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today! The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. Guidelines for the essay and song are outlined in Section III. To enter, students and/or parent/guardians are encouraged to fill out the online Contest Sign- up form, indicating their intent to enter the contest, including the line on the form giving parental consent. Contest updates and deadline reminders will be sent to the students signing up for the contest in advance. To enter the essay, the completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent and essay entry may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to the P.O. Box below. Student s name, age and grade must appear on each page of the essay. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas The student s name, age and grade must appear on each page of the music and lyrics, and appear on the CD or DVD. header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

14 Entries must be received by by 11:59 p.m. June 14, 2011 or postmarked no later than June As further detailed in Section VII entrants and parent/guardians agree to accept and be bound by all terms of these Official Rules and Regulations and the decisions of Constituting America, whose decisions are final with respect to all matters of the Contest. Only one entry per student is permitted. Incomplete, late or entries which contain unrequested information, or otherwise fail to comply with these Official Rules and Regulations will not qualify for consideration for the Contest. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians acknowledge and agree that the entry along with any and all documentation submitted therewith will become the sole property of Constituting America and will not be acknowledged or returned. Entrant and their parent/guardian represent and warrant that the entry is an original work and does not infringe on the intellectual property rights of any third party, is unpublished (in any form or medium) and has not won an award. Constituting America may edit any entries for grammar, modify for style only, and entrant and their parent/guardian hereby grant Constituting America a license to record the song, distribute submitted material to third parties for purposes of publication or production, to publicize the contest, with no additional notification or permission of the entrant or parent/guardian. Submitted material will only be used to further the educational mission and goals of Constituting America (please see Section VI for a Notice to Parents and Privacy Policy), including, but not limited to, featuring the song and essay on the Constituting America website, and putting them on a DVD for promotional distribution for the contest. Section II Qualifications The Middle School Contest is open to all United States citizens or legal residents who are students in grades 6-8 for the academic year and are 11 to 15 years old at the time of entry, attending public, private, religious, home school program and charter schools. Students must attend school in one of the 50 States, District of Columbia, all U.S. Territories, or American Armed Forces Schools abroad. Section III Essay and Song Instructions 1. The Essay topic is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Essay should be no longer than 850 words. Essay may be typed or handwritten. If submitted electronically, the essay should be saved in Word, version 2003 or higher, or as a PDF. Whether submitted electronically or in hard copy form, essay entry MUST include the student s name, age and grade on each page of the essay. Essays may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. The song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music, written by the student, no longer than 3:20. It must be sung by the student and recorded onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted. The song may be written, performed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign- up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas Each page of music and lyrics, and the CD or DVD itself MUST include the student s name, age and grade.

15 All entries must include the signed Contest Signup Form, available for download on the website. The form should be signed by the parent if the entrant is under 18, scanned in and accompany electronic submissions, or mailed in hard copy form for hard copy submissions. Section IV-Judging Process After the expiration of the Contest Period, the judges selected by Constituting America will review all entries and submissions which comply with these Official Rules and Regulations and select one (1) winning essay and one (1) winning song. Judges reserve the right to not make an award in any category. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Adherence to instructions stated in Section III 2. Essay: originality, neatness, spelling, grammar and form 3. Song: original pop song appealing to broad base of youth The odds of winning are proportional to the amount of entries received. Winners will be notified no later than August 15, Section V Awards and Prizes The two middle school winners will be contacted directly through contact information provided on the Contest Signup Form. Winners will also be announced on As a condition to receiving any awards, the winners must provide publicity photos and may be required to return a liability release and publicity release within 10 days following the date of notification. Winners will receive: BEST ESSAY 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Essay, Middle School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Essay, Middle School $200 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) BEST SONG 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Song, Middle School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Song, Middle School $200 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) All entrants and their parents/guardians are solely responsible for understanding and complying with any and all federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances that may apply to the entrants and the activities or business in which such entrants may engage. Tax consequences

16 may be associated with the prizes received by a Contest winner, which may include, without limitation, an obligation to report as income and to pay taxes on such income to federal, state, or local authorities. It is the responsibility of each Contest winner to determine the tax consequences of the prizes received and to comply with all applicable laws in all respects. Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Upon submission of entry, the material entered becomes the property of Constituting America. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians grant Constituting America the right, unless prohibited by law, to use their names, cities and states of residence, pictures and likenesses without compensation, for the express purpose of advertising and publicity of the Contest in any and all media, now or after. Entrants and their parent/guardian also grant Constituting America permission to use their name and materials submitted to further its mission as stated on Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents are posted on Entrant and his or her parent/guardian hereby agree and acknowledge the provisions set forth in the Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents. To receive further information about Constituting America, students, parents or guardians must click Sign Up for Updates on the front page of the website at Section VII Disclaimer Constituting America will administer any and all aspects of the Contest, including, without limitation, evaluating a student's qualification or material submission, judge selection, review of entry documents and information, determination of prize winners, all of which is in the sole and absolute discretion of Constituting America. Any and all decisions of Constituting America relating to the administration of the Contest are final in all respects and no student, parent /guardian or person or organization related thereto, has a right to appeal, contest, and dispute or otherwise challenge such administration. Constituting America is not responsible for (i) incorrect or inaccurate entry information whether caused by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized by this contest or by any human error which may occur in the processing of entries into this contest; or (ii) for lost, late, misdirected or delayed entries or electronic transmission errors or technical malfunctions. If for any reason, the Contest is interrupted, delayed or negatively affected by any causes beyond the control of Constituting America, Constituting America reserves the right to cancel, modify or delay the Contest. Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Constituting America will not discriminate in any manner, including on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in its administration of the Contest. Each eligible entry submitted will be evaluated upon the merit of its contents and the criteria described in Section IV. This Contest is governed by the internal laws of the state of Texas without regard to principles of conflict of laws. If any provision of these Official Rules and Regulations is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision herein.

17 Middle School AWARDS & PRIZES BEST ESSAY 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Essay, Middle School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Essay, Middle School $200 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) BEST SONG 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Song, Middle School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Song, Middle School $200 Gift Card to a retail location (to be announced) ader greregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas 76034

18 Calling All Middle School Students *CONTEST* We the People 9.17 Contest *Know your U.S. Constitution?! *Know your rights as an American citizen?! 1. Write an Essay 2. Compose and Record a Song Win Prizes!!!!! Entries Due June 14, 2011 For more details visit: header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

19 Grades 9-12 High School Students Contest Rules Summary Sign up for the contest online. If student is under 18, Parent/Guardian must read Constituting America s Privacy Policy Guidelines and Notice to Parents, approve of student entering, and check parent statement on online form. One category entry per student. High School Students may submit a Short Film, PSA, Song or Essay. o o o Short film should be an original film written and directed by the student. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the short film. It must be no shorter than 5 minutes and no longer than 15 minutes in length. The subject should be: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today? Short film entries should be submitted on a DVD, along with a copy of the script. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. See Official Rules Section III for details. Public Service Announcement (PSA) subject is Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the PSA. It must be 60 seconds in length and must be originally written by the student and recorded. It must be submitted on a DVD, along with the script. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. See Official Rules Section III for details. Song subject must be What the United States Constitution Means to Me. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the song. Song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music written by the student (s) no longer than 3:20, sung and recorded by the students onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. Song entry must be submitted by mail. See Official Rules Section III for details. header fgrgreregrhrt o Essay topic is Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Essay must be no longer than 850 words, typed. Essay entry may be mailed or submitted electronically, but MUST include student s name, age and grade on every page of the essay. See Official Rules Section III for details. Electronic submissions due by 11:59 p.m. June 14, 2011 to WeThePeople917@yahoo.com. Mailed entries must be postmarked by June 14, All entry submissions must be accompanied by the Contest Signup Form, with signed parental consent. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. Please mail entries to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest PO Box 1988 Colleyville, TX Entries will not be returned. The winner gives Constituting America the rights to reprint and redistribute entries. The above rules are a summary only. Please consult Official Rules and Regulations, for complete instructions and guidelines. ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

20 We the People 9.17 Contest Official Rules and Regulations Effective November 1, 2010 For High School Students Section I General Rules for High School Students (Grades 9-12) Section II Qualification Section III Instructions Section IV Judging Process Section V Awards and Prizes Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Section VII Disclaimer Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Section I General Rules for High School Students (Grades 9-12) From November 1, 2010 to June 14, 2011 (the "Contest Period") Constituting America will conduct the "We the People 9.17" essay, song, public service announcement (PSA) and short film contest (the "Contest") in the 50 States of the United States of America, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories and the American Armed Forces Schools Abroad. The essay topic is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today! The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. The PSA subject is: Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. The short film subject is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Guidelines for the essay, song, PSA and short film are outlined in Section III. To enter, students and/or parent/guardians are encouraged to fill out the online Contest Sign- up form, indicating their intent to enter the contest, including the line on the form giving parental consent (if entrant under 18). Contest updates and deadline reminders will be sent to the students signing up for the contest in advance. To enter the essay, the completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent and essay entry may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to the P.O. Box below. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to the P.O. Box below. The PSA or short film entry, along with Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by DVD, with script, to the P.O. Box below: Constituting America We The People 9.17 Contest P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

21 Entries must be received by by 11:59 p.m. June 14, 2011 or postmarked no later than June 14, As further detailed in Section VII entrants and parent/guardians agree to accept and be bound by all terms of these Official Rules and Regulations and the decisions of Constituting America, whose decisions are final with respect to all matters of the Contest. Only one entry per student is permitted. Incomplete, late or entries which contain unrequested information, or otherwise fail to comply with these Official Rules and Regulations will not qualify for consideration for the Contest. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians acknowledge and agree that the entry along with any and all documentation submitted therewith will become the sole property of Constituting America and will not be acknowledged or returned. Entrant and their parent/guardian represent and warrant that the entry is an original work and does not infringe on the intellectual property rights of any third party, is unpublished (in any form or medium) and has not won an award. Constituting America may edit any entries for grammar, modify for style only, and entrant and their parent/guardian hereby grant Constituting America a license to record the song, distribute submitted material to third parties for purposes of publication or production, to publicize the contest, with no additional notification or permission of the entrant or parent/guardian. Submitted material will only be used to further the educational mission and goals of Constituting America (please see Section VI for a Notice to Parents and Privacy Policy), including, but not limited to, featuring the song, essay, PSA and short film on the Constituting America website, and putting them on a DVD for promotional distribution for the contest. Section II Qualifications The High School Contest is open to all United States citizens or legal residents who are students in grades 9-12 for the academic year and are 14 to 19 years old at the time of entry, attending public, private, religious, home school program and charter schools. Students must attend school in one of the 50 States, District of Columbia, all U.S. Territories, or American Armed Forces Schools abroad. Section III Essay, Song, PSA and Short Film Instructions 1. The Essay topic is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Essay should be no longer than 850 words. If submitted electronically, the essay should be saved in Word, version 2003 or higher, or as a PDF. To enter the essay, the completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent (if under 18) and essay entry may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas Whether submitted in hard copy form or electronically, the student s name, grade and age must be on each page of the essay. 2. The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. The song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music, written by the student, no longer than 3:20. It must be sung by the student and recorded onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted. The song may be written, performed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas The student s name, grade and age must be on each page of the song submission, as well as on the CD or DVD.

22 3. The public service announcement (PSA) subject is Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. It must be 60 seconds in length and must be originally written by the student and recorded. It must be submitted on a DVD, along with the script. The PSA may be written, directed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The PSA entry, along with script, must be mailed with the completed Contest Signup form with signed parental consent (if under 18) to the P.O. Box below. The student s name, grade and age must be on each page of the script, as well as on the DVD. 4. The short film should be an original film written and directed by the student. It must be no shorter than 5 minutes and no longer than 15 minutes in length. The subject should be: Why is the United States Constitution Relevant Today? Short film entries should be submitted on a DVD, along with a copy of the script with the student s name, grade and age on each page of the script as well as on the DVD. The short film may be written, directed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The short film submission should be mailed to the P.O. Box below, along with the completed Contest Signup form, with signed parental consent (if under 18 years of age). Constituting America We The People 9.17 P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas Section IV-Judging Process After the expiration of the Contest Period, the judges selected by Constituting America will review all entries and submissions which comply with these Official Rules and Regulations and select one (1) winning essay and one (1) winning song. Judges reserve the right to not make an award in any category. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Adherence to instructions stated in Section III 2. Essay: originality, neatness, spelling, grammar and form 3. Song: original pop song appealing to broad base of youth 4. PSA: originality, appeal to high school age group, likeliness to be aired by a television station 5. Short film: originality, appeal to high school age group. The odds of winning are proportional to the amount of entries received. Winners will be notified no later than August 15, Section V Awards and Prizes The four high school winners will be contacted directly through contact information provided on the Contest Signup Form. Winners will also be announced on As a condition to receiving any awards, the winners must provide publicity photos and may be required to return a liability release and publicity release within 10 days following the date of notification. Winners will receive:

23 BEST ESSAY 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Essay, High School Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Essay, High School $1000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST SONG 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America High School Song, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Song, High School $1000 Scholarship Prize (If team submission, prize is split) 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST PSA 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America High School PSA, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best PSA, High School $1000 Scholarship Prize (If team submission, prize is split) 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST SHORT FILM 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America High School Short Film, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Short Film, High School $1000 Scholarship Prize (If team submission, prize is split) 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day All entrants and their parents/guardians are solely responsible for understanding and complying with any and all federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances that may apply to the entrants and the activities or business in which such entrants may engage. Tax consequences may be associated with the prizes received by a Contest winner, which may include, without limitation, an obligation to report as income and to pay taxes on such income to federal, state, or local authorities. It is the responsibility of each Contest winner to determine the tax consequences of the prizes received and to comply with all applicable laws in all respects. Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Upon submission of entry, the material entered becomes the property of Constituting America. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians grant Constituting America the right, unless prohibited by law, to use their names, cities and states of residence, pictures and likenesses

24 without compensation, for the express purpose of advertising and publicity of the Contest in any and all media, now or after. Entrants and their parent/guardian also grant Constituting America permission to use their name and materials submitted to further its mission as stated on Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents are posted on Entrant and his or her parent/guardian hereby agree and acknowledge the provisions set forth in the Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents. To receive further information about Constituting America, students, parents or guardians must click Sign Up for Updates on the front page of the website at Section VII Disclaimer Constituting America will administer any and all aspects of the Contest, including, without limitation, evaluating a student's qualification or material submission, judge selection, review of entry documents and information, determination of prize winners, all of which is in the sole and absolute discretion of Constituting America. Any and all decisions of Constituting America relating to the administration of the Contest are final in all respects and no student, parent /guardian or person or organization related thereto, has a right to appeal, contest, and dispute or otherwise challenge such administration. Constituting America is not responsible for (i) incorrect or inaccurate entry information whether caused by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized by this contest or by any human error which may occur in the processing of entries into this contest; or (ii) for lost, late, misdirected or delayed entries or electronic transmission errors or technical malfunctions. If for any reason, the Contest is interrupted, delayed or negatively affected by any causes beyond the control of Constituting America, Constituting America reserves the right to cancel, modify or delay the Contest. Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Constituting America will not discriminate in any manner, including on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in its administration of the Contest. Each eligible entry submitted will be evaluated upon the merit of its contents and the criteria described in Section IV. This Contest is governed by the internal laws of the state of Texas without regard to principles of conflict of laws. If any provision of these Official Rules and Regulations is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision herein.

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charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.!!

26 Calling All HIGH SCHOOL Students *CONTEST* We the People 9.17 Contest *Know your U.S. Constitution?! *Know your rights as an American citizen?! 1. Write an Essay 2. Compose and Record a Song 3. Direct a Short Film 4. Create a Public Service Announcement Win Scholarships And Prizes!!!!! Entries Due June 14, 2011 For more details visit: header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

27 College Students Contest Rules Summary Must be enrolled in a college or university, carrying 12 hours or more, seeking an undergraduate degree, age Sign up for the contest online. If student is under 18, Parent/Guardian must read Constituting America s Privacy Policy Guidelines and Notice to Parents, approve of student entering, and check parent statement on online form. One category entry per student. College Students may submit a Short Film, PSA, Song or Speech. o o o o Short film should be an original film written and directed by the student. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the short film. It must be no shorter than 5 minutes and no longer than 15 minutes in length. The subject should be: Why is the United States Constitution Relevant Today? Short film entries should be submitted on a DVD, along with a copy of the script. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. See Official Rules Section III for details. Public Service Announcement (PSA) subject is Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the PSA. It must be 60 seconds in length and must be originally written by the student and recorded. It must be submitted on a DVD, along with the script. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. See Official Rules Section III for details. Song subject must be What the United States Constitution Means to Me. Up to two students may collaborate on and submit the song. Song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music written by the student (s) no longer than 3:20, sung and recorded by the students onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted. Student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. Song entry must be submitted by mail. See Official Rules Section III for details. Speech topic is The Constitution What Would Our Founding Fathers Think Today? Speech must be no longer than 20 minutes, and no shorter than 15 minutes. Speech must be videotaped and submitted on DVD. Written transcript must be submitted as well and MUST include student s name, age and grade on every page of the speech. See Official Rules Section III for details. Mailed entries must be postmarked by June 14, All entry submissions must be accompanied by the entry form, with signed parental consent (if under age 18) and student s name, age and grade must appear on the entry, and all pages of the entry package. Please mail entries to: Constituting America We the People 9.17 Contest PO Box 1988 Colleyville, TX Entries will not be returned. The winner gives Constituting America the rights to reprint and redistribute entries. The above rules are a summary only. Please consult Official Rules and Regulations, for complete instructions and guidelines. eader grgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

28 We the People 9.17 Contest Official Rules and Regulations Effective November 1, 2010 For College Students Section I General Rules for High School Students (Grades 9-12) Section II Qualification Section III Instructions Section IV Judging Process Section V Awards and Prizes Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Section VII Disclaimer Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Section I General Rules for Undergraduate College Students From November 1, 2010 to June 14, 2011 (the "Contest Period") Constituting America will conduct the "We the People 9.17" speech, song, public service announcement (PSA) and short film contest (the "Contest") in the 50 States of the United States of America, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories and the American Armed Forces Schools Abroad. The speech topic is: The Constitution What Would Our Founding Fathers Think Today? The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. The PSA subject is: Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. The short film subject is: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Guidelines for the speech, song, PSA and short film are outlined in Section III. To enter, students and/or parent/guardians are encouraged to fill out the online Contest Sign- up form, indicating their intent to enter the contest, including the line on the form giving parental consent (if entrant under 18). Contest updates and deadline reminders will be sent to the students signing up for the contest in advance. To enter the essay, the completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent and essay entry may be ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com or mailed in hard copy form to the P.O. Box below. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to the P.O. Box below. The PSA or short film entry, along with Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent, must be submitted by DVD, with script, to the P.O. Box below: Constituting America We The People 9.17 Contest P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas eader grgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

29 Entries must be received by by 11:59 p.m. June 14, 2011 or postmarked no later than June 14, As further detailed in Section VII entrants and parent/guardians agree to accept and be bound by all terms of these Official Rules and Regulations and the decisions of Constituting America, whose decisions are final with respect to all matters of the Contest. Only one entry per student is permitted. Incomplete, late or entries which contain unrequested information, or otherwise fail to comply with these Official Rules and Regulations will not qualify for consideration for the Contest. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians acknowledge and agree that the entry along with any and all documentation submitted therewith will become the sole property of Constituting America and will not be acknowledged or returned. Entrant and their parent/guardian represent and warrant that the entry is an original work and does not infringe on the intellectual property rights of any third party, is unpublished (in any form or medium) and has not won an award. Constituting America may edit any entries for grammar, modify for style only, and entrant and their parent/guardian hereby grant Constituting America a license to record the song, distribute submitted material to third parties for purposes of publication or production, to publicize the contest, with no additional notification or permission of the entrant or parent/guardian. Submitted material will only be used to further the educational mission and goals of Constituting America (please see Section VI for a Notice to Parents and Privacy Policy), including, but not limited to, featuring the song, essay, PSA and short film on the Constituting America website, and putting them on a DVD for promotional distribution for the contest. Section II Qualifications The College Contest is open to all United States citizens or legal residents who are undergraduate students carrying 12 hours or more in the academic year and are 17 to 24 years old at the time of entry, attending a public, private, or religious college or university. Students must attend school in one of the 50 States, District of Columbia, all U.S. Territories, or be participating in a study abroad program while a student at United States college or university. Section III Speech, Song, PSA and Short Film Instructions 1. The Speech topic is The Constitution What Would Our Founding Fathers Think Today? Speech must be no longer than 20 minutes, and no shorter than 15 minutes. Speech must be videotaped and submitted on DVD. Written transcript must be submitted as well and MUST include student s name, age and grade on every page of the speech and on the DVD. The completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent (if under 18), written copy of speech and DVD of student delivering speech must be mailed in hard copy form to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas The song s subject is: What the United States Constitution Means to Me. The song must be an original pop song composition, lyrics and music, written by the student, no longer than 3:20. It must be sung by the student and recorded onto a CD or DVD. Lyrics and music must also be submitted. The song may be written, performed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The song entry, along with completed Contest Sign-up form with signed parental consent (if under 18), must be submitted by CD or DVD, with lyrics and music to Constituting America, P.O. Box 1988, Colleyville, Texas The student s name, grade and age must be on each page of the song submission, as well as on the CD or DVD.

30 3. The public service announcement (PSA) subject is Why Citizens Should Know Their United States Constitution. It must be 60 seconds in length and must be originally written by the student and recorded. It must be submitted on a DVD, along with the script. The PSA may be written, directed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The PSA entry, along with script, must be mailed with the completed Contest Signup form with signed parental consent (if under 18) to the P.O. Box below. The student s name, grade and age must be on each page of the script, as well as on the DVD. 4. The short film should be an original film written and directed by the student. It must be no shorter than 5 minutes and no longer than 15 minutes in length. The subject should be: Why the United States Constitution is Relevant Today. Short film entries should be submitted on a DVD, along with a copy of the script with the student s name, grade and age on each page of the script as well as on the DVD. The short film may be written, directed and submitted by a team of not more than two people. The short film submission should be mailed to the P.O. Box below, along with the completed Contest Signup form, with signed parental consent (if under 18 years of age). Constituting America We The People 9.17 P.O. Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas Section IV-Judging Process After the expiration of the Contest Period, the judges selected by Constituting America will review all entries and submissions which comply with these Official Rules and Regulations and select one (1) winning essay and one (1) winning song. Judges reserve the right to not make an award in any category. Entries will be evaluated based on the following criteria: 1. Adherence to instructions stated in Section III 2. Essay: originality, neatness, spelling, grammar and form 3. Song: original pop song appealing to broad base of youth 4. PSA: originality, appeal to high school age group, likeliness to be aired by a television station 5. Short film: originality, appeal to high school age group. The odds of winning are proportional to the amount of entries received. Winners will be notified no later than August 15, Section V Awards and Prizes The four college winners will be contacted directly through contact information provided on the Contest Signup Form. Winners will also be announced on As a condition to receiving any awards, the winners must provide publicity photos and may be required to return a liability release and publicity release within 10 days following the date of notification. Winners will receive:

31 BEST SPEECH 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Speech, College Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Speech, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST SONG 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College Song, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Song, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST PSA 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College PSA, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best PSA, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day BEST SHORT FILM 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College Short Film, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Short Film, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day All entrants and their parents/guardians are solely responsible for understanding and complying with any and all federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances that may apply to the entrants and the activities or business in which such entrants may engage. Tax consequences may be associated with the prizes received by a Contest winner, which may include, without limitation, an obligation to report as income and to pay taxes on such income to federal, state, or local authorities. It is the responsibility of each Contest winner to determine the tax consequences of the prizes received and to comply with all applicable laws in all respects. Section VI Notice and Privacy Policy Upon submission of entry, the material entered becomes the property of Constituting America. By entering the Contest, entrants and their parent/guardians grant Constituting America the right, unless prohibited by law, to use their names, cities and states of residence, pictures and likenesses

32 without compensation, for the express purpose of advertising and publicity of the Contest in any and all media, now or after. Entrants and their parent/guardian also grant Constituting America permission to use their name and materials submitted to further its mission as stated on Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents are posted on Entrant and his or her parent/guardian hereby agree and acknowledge the provisions set forth in the Privacy Policy and Notice to Parents. To receive further information about Constituting America, students, parents or guardians must click Sign Up for Updates on the front page of the website at Section VII Disclaimer Constituting America will administer any and all aspects of the Contest, including, without limitation, evaluating a student's qualification or material submission, judge selection, review of entry documents and information, determination of prize winners, all of which is in the sole and absolute discretion of Constituting America. Any and all decisions of Constituting America relating to the administration of the Contest are final in all respects and no student, parent /guardian or person or organization related thereto, has a right to appeal, contest, and dispute or otherwise challenge such administration. Constituting America is not responsible for (i) incorrect or inaccurate entry information whether caused by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized by this contest or by any human error which may occur in the processing of entries into this contest; or (ii) for lost, late, misdirected or delayed entries or electronic transmission errors or technical malfunctions. If for any reason, the Contest is interrupted, delayed or negatively affected by any causes beyond the control of Constituting America, Constituting America reserves the right to cancel, modify or delay the Contest. Section VIII Nondiscrimination Policy Constituting America will not discriminate in any manner, including on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in its administration of the Contest. Each eligible entry submitted will be evaluated upon the merit of its contents and the criteria described in Section IV. This Contest is governed by the internal laws of the state of Texas without regard to principles of conflict of laws. If any provision of these Official Rules and Regulations is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision herein.

33 College Student AWARDS & PRIZES BEST SPEECH 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as Best Speech, College Public Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Speech, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city (TBA) for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution Day and Citizenship Day BEST SONG 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College Level Song, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Song, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city (TBA) for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution Day and Citizenship Day BEST PSA 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College Level PSA, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best PSA, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city (TBA) for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day Best Short Film 1 Entry Chosen 1. Worldwide exposure on the Constituting America website as official Constituting America College Level Short Film, Television Appearances (to be determined) 3. Certificate for winning Best Short Film, College $2000 Scholarship Prize 5. Travel to a historic city (TBA) for entrant and parent/guardian on September 17, 2011, National Constitution and Citizenship Day header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

34 Calling All College Students *CONTEST* We the People 9.17 Contest *Know your U.S. Constitution?! *Know your rights as an American citizen?! 1. Write and Deliver a Speech 2. Compose and Record a Song 3. Direct a Short Film 4. Create a Public Service Announcement Win Scholarships And Prizes!!!!! Entries Due June 14, 2011 For more details visit: header fgrgreregrhrt ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

35 header fgrgreregrhrt We The People 9.17 Contest Sign-Up Form 1. Name 2. Date of Birth 3. Male / Female 4. Address 5. Telephone 6. E Mail 7. Grade 8. School 9. Category of Entry Title Length 10. Agree to rules (student signature) 11. Below Parent Section must be completed for entrants under the age of 18: (initials) I have read Constituting America s Privacy Policy guidelines and Notice to Parents posted on agree to them, and I give my child permission to submit the above information and participate in the We The People 9*17 Contest. Parent/Guardian Signature Parent/Guardian Parent/Guardian Name The following categories MUST be submitted by mail: Song (music, lyrics & CD); PSA (DVD & Script); Short Film (DVD& Script), Speech (DVD & Script), Holiday Card. The following categories MAY be mailed or ed to wethepeople917@yahoo.com: Essay & Poem. THIS entry form signed by student and parent and/or guardian must accompany all entries, whether mailed or ed. For submissions, please scan in a copy of this signed form. Please see Contest Rules for more details. Signing up online does not replace the requirement to submit this form with your entry. CONSTITUTING AMERICA MAILING ADDRESS Constituting America ATTN: We The People 9.17 Contest PO Box 1988 Colleyville, TX **Entries will not be returned. The winner gives Constituting America the rights to reprint and redistribute entries. Please see Contest Rules for more details. ConstitutingAmerica.org PO Box 1988 Colleyville, Texas charity under Section 501 (c) (3), contributions are tax deductible.

36 What Would Our Forefathers Think of America Today? July 16, 2009 I have a fantasy. It's fascinating. It's futuristic. It's foretelling. My fantasy is that our country's forefathers would miraculously appear today in America. I see them walking among us, dressed in velvet coats and knee pants, hair in a pony tails, hats in hand. Thomas Jefferson in Virginia. Alexander Hamilton on Wall Street. John Adams in Boston. Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia. And, George Washington in Washington. I envision it theatrically, of course, with cameras. A panoramic sweep as they turn full circle in awe. What would they think? Would they be proud? Would they be shocked? I, for one, want them desperately to be pleased. This is an idea that has fascinated me for decades. I can remember asking my father about it when I was nine: "Dad, what would our forefathers think of America if they returned today? About what would they be most disappointed?" My father, who is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and a man of few words, thought for a moment and simply said, "taxes." What would our forefathers think of us today? I yearn for their wisdom. I believe, if they roamed the halls of Congress together and eavesdropped on the conversations, heard the rancor, felt the division,

37 they would say, or at least Thomas Jefferson would say, "Ah, democracy at work." However, upon further investigation their impressions would sour. They would accurately perceive that the tenor has changed. During their day, they too differed and fought. They were, at times, wickedly vicious -- but it was for Americans. They believed that God wove an innate promise in human beings and they envisioned the infinite possibilities of the mind and soul if freed from tyrannical government. They ardently loved America. Their purpose was for America to be born, to blossom and to be the hope of mankind. They took pride in their remarkable achievements. They believed that their victory over the British and the success in uniting their fledgling country's passionate diversities as they constructed and ratified the Constitution, were the works of "Divine Providence." Brilliant and well read as they were, they would quickly surmise the threats to America. Alarmed by the bitter greed, they would stand at the pulpit of Congress and pound the gavel and say, "Awaken Patriots. Awaken your sense of unity! A Congress divided, for the sake of pride, will most certainly fall. A Congress that betrays its constituents, for the sake of party line, will most assuredly falter. A Congress that bloats bills to the point of obscene obscurity will be condemned." They would be astounded by a Congress that does not read its own works and warn, "A Congress that cannot or will not read the bills before they vote, before they represent the American people, will, without fail, lead their country and its people to doom." When they realize C-SPAN is there, and they would adeptly figure this out, they would look into the camera and warn the American people. They would warn parents that by neglecting to teach their children their rights as embodied in the Constitution as well as the inherent responsibilities of citizenship, they will let America simply slip away. Thomas Jefferson would recount his own words, "If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be." They would warn, "It won't be sudden. It will be insidious. Those who devalue freedom, who underestimate human

38 genius, integrity and industriousness, will cunningly dominate the debate." Benjamin Franklin would recount his own words, "Think what you do when you run in debt; you give to another power over your liberty." They would say, "By letting Congress bankrupt your country, you most assuredly will lose your freedom, your free will. By letting Congress take away your right to own a gun, you will let a dictator seize your country and your home, because he will encounter no resistance." They would quote Samuel Adams' wisdom, "Be forewarned, the pooling of property and the redistributing of wealth are despotic and unconstitutional." They would close with biting truths saying, "Without moral values, which should begin in Congress, America will lose her roots, her basis, her thesis." They would echo Paul Revere and cry out, "Stand up, Americans. The challenge is coming! The challenge is coming! Let freedom continue to ring!" They would exit Congress and they would not be downtrodden. A smile would emanate from their faces, for they know the heart of Americans. Janine Turner is an actress and writer.!

39 JANINE TURNER: A Call to Arms for America's Parents February 4, 2010 We are in charge of our children's futures and it's time for a revolution. In 1775 Israel Putnam was farming in Brooklyn, Connecticut when he heard the British had fired on the American Militia in Lexington, Massachusetts. He immediately dropped his plow and rode 100 miles in 18 hours to Cambridge, Massachusetts to join the colonial soldiers. On the way he spread the call for "every man who is fit and willing" to come to his countrymen s aid. Israel was resolute when revolution beckoned. He was fit and willing. Are we? Are our children? Or is it time for a 2010 resolution for a revolution? Revolution conjures thoughts of guns and soldiers, passions and pageants. The revolution that currently beckons is an awakening not an awakening of political parties or partisan politics but of our youth s minds. America s future lies with them. What is happening to Americas promise? Their intellectual stimulation is benumbed with mindless text messaging, Xbox and reality television. There is an extraordinary, seemingly boundless amount of information available at their fingertips but the question begs: will it be used benignly or brilliantly? Will our children become hypnotized or revitalized? Unfortunately, I see signs of complacency. Recently, I stumbled upon the following words: The average age of the world s greatest civilization has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: From bondage to spiritual faith; From spiritual faith to great courage; From courage to liberty; From liberty to abundance; From abundance to selfishness; From selfishness to complacency; From complacency to apathy; From apathy to dependency; From dependency back to bondage.