Fortner places third in law enforcement essay contest

Rebecca Fortner, an eighth-grade student at Odessa Jr./Sr. High School, took third place for Region 5 in the annual essay contest sponsored by the Washington State Law Enforcement Association. The essay topic this year was “Why I will say NO to Alcohol and Drugs!”

For 19 years, WSLEA has offered this program to all eighth grade students. Schools throughout Washington have been divided into five different districts. Within each district the essays are reviewed to find a first, second and third place winner. Each district first place winner is then reviewed for the overall state winner distinction. The state first place winner receives $500; district first place winners receive $200; district second place winners receive $150; and district third-place winners receive $100.

The Washington State Law Enforcement Association (WSLEA) is a professional association for law enforcement officers throughout the State of Washington. WSLEA is dedicated to helping law enforcement officers improve the quality of their chosen profession through information and education, collective action, advocacy and representation, research and development.