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Contestants present their original poems in person. 2 regional contests in Fredonia and Hays determined the top qualifiers for the State Final, which was June 7th at the
Flint Hills Discovery Center, Manhattan
OUR STATE FINALISTS WERE
Back row, l-r: Betty Burlingham, Manhattan; John Marks, Gypsum; Randy Walker, Texas; Harry Whitney, Manhattan; Dennis Russell, Colorado.
Front row, l-r: Hank Letourneau; Eli Taylor, Wamego; Mary Powell, Longton
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State champions at the finals receive the Saddlejack Bradrick Award, the coveted Governor’s Buckle, discounts and gift certificates from leading western wear stores, free membership in the International Western Music Association-Kansas Chapter, two tickets to the Symphony in the Flint Hills, plus an opportunity to present their poems in the story circle after the symphony.
Congratulations to our 2024 winner in both divisions:
Betty Burlingham of Manhattan
Contest Committee Members:
Jeff Davidson, Eureka | Martha Farrell, Andover | Orin Friesen, Benton | Brad Hamilton, Hoyt
Contest Chairman: Ron Wilson, Manhattan
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CONTACT
Do you have questions about the contest?
Email contest chair Ron Wilson or our general contest email for more information!
Follow us to stay up to date on entry deadlines and contest updates:
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