Mercy High freshman wins essay contest

Veronica Jones, a freshman Mercy High School, Baltimore, won first place in the 2007 Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest, sponsored by the YMCA of Central Maryland and the King’s Landing Women’s Service Club.

Students from Baltimore City and County were asked to weigh in on how the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has impacted their lives.

In her essay, Veronica wrote, “since he was courageous and stood up for his beliefs, I now have the choice to do what I want to do. I don’t have to limit myself or close off opportunities in the world today.”

Veronica read an excerpt of her winning essay at the 32nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial breakfast Jan. 15 at Martin’s West in Baltimore. She received a cash prize for her winning essay.