For the 19th year, Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante and the Omaha Storm Chasers will be sponsoring the “Why I Want to Go to College” writing sweepstakes, with entries due Thursday, April 1, 2021.
Prizes will be awarded to 12 winners in seventh and eighth grades who will receive contributions to the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST) college savings accounts – including $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second place, and $500 for third place. Three winners will be chosen from each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts, and three winners will be chosen from outside Nebraska.
Each Nebraska winner will receive four tickets to an upcoming Storm Chasers game at Werner Park in Papillion at where they will be recognized during a brief ceremony.
“There are many challenges facing students in this day and age, but this event is a wonderful way for students in public, private, and home school environments to focus on the positives – their goals for life and the importance of saving for their future education. Efforts like this not only provide an additional chance for students to sharpen their writing skills, but it makes it more likely every Nebraskan has the opportunity to graduate vocational training or a higher educational institution debt-free. I’m looking forward to meeting the winners and their families at Werner Park,” said Treasurer Murante.
Families can save for college for their children and grandchildren through NEST529, the state-sponsored 529 college savings program that allows for tax-free investments and tax-free qualified withdrawals. Nebraska account owners can qualify for up to $10,000 a year in state income tax deductions.
Students are asked to reflect on the value of education and what they hope to achieve through higher education. Entries are limited to 750 words and should be sent to Andrea Bedore, Omaha Storm Chasers,12356 Ballpark Way, Papillion, NE 68046.
(Photo by WOWT 6 News)