In an effort to identify and reward Mariposa’s graduating seniors for their services to the community, the Mariposa Democratic Club sponsors an essay contest to determine outstanding achievements in these areas. Eligible seniors had to be enrolled in a high school in the Mariposa County Unified School District, be in good standing with at least a 2.0 grade point average, demonstrate a history of service to their community and have a letter of reference from a community member.

Essays were limited to 600 words or less and had to address the community services the student had performed to date and how they would use their chosen vocation to continue to serve their communities in the future.

The winning essay for 2010 was written by Colin Ritter, a senior at Mariposa County High School. The Mariposa Democratic Club thanked those who donated the $500 prize for the winning essay. They are: Landis Realty, Starchman Law Offices, Chocolate Soup, Take N Bake Pizza, Judy Eppler and Jim Archer. These donors have committed participation for next year in order to assure support of this program in the future.