Celebrating the 2024 Wyoming County EDA Writing Contest Winners

The Wyoming County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and Wyoming County Planning Commission are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 Writing Contest, a key initiative under the Literature Fund founded by esteemed author Lonnie Bailey. This competition aims to encourage and recognize the literary talents of Wyoming County residents, fostering historical and cultural endeavors through the craft of writing.

The Literature Fund: A Legacy of Inspiration

Lonnie Bailey, a prolific author of 22 books, 21 of which are poetry collections, has significantly contributed to the literary world. His works have been featured in 136 anthologies, 16 CDs, and on more than 300 occasions in newspapers and magazines. With his play performed by the Mullens Community Theater and his numerous national and international honors, Bailey’s commitment to the literary arts is profound. The Literature Fund, established through his generous donation to the Beckley Area Foundation (BAF), continues to inspire and support writers in Wyoming County.

The BAF, established in 1985 with an initial gift of $1.1 million, has grown to nearly $60 million in assets across over 500 different funds. As one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations, BAF has distributed more than $20 million to various charitable causes, including education, public recreation, health and human services, the arts, and community beautification. The Literature Fund is a testament to BAF’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent and enriching the cultural fabric of Wyoming County.

2024 Writing Contest: Encouraging New Voices

The Wyoming County EDA’s Writing Contest, now in its fourth year, continues to shine a spotlight on both new and established writers. Open to residents of Wyoming County, the contest received numerous entries evaluated by a panel of local writers and residents approved by the BAF. Awards were granted based on the merit of the submitted work, and each participant received a certificate of participation.

This year, the contest recognized talented writers across four categories: elementary, middle school, high school, and adult.

Celebrating the Winners

Elementary School:

• 1st Place: Skylar Cline, “Sunny Summer Days,” 4th Grade, Huff Consolidated
• 2nd Place: Sawyer Hopkins, “Sunny Summer Day,” 3rd Grade, Berlin McKinney Elementary School
• 3rd Place: Lindsey Cook, “Sunny Summer Day,” 3rd Grade, Berlin McKinney Elementary School

Middle School:

• 1st Place: McKaylee Morgan, “The Story of Wyoming County Native, Samantha Lester,” 7th Grade, Baileysville Elementary & Middle School
• 2nd Place: Abigail Laxton, “How Bullying Affects Children’s Mental Health,” 7th Grade, Glen Fork Elementary & Middle School

High School:

• 1st Place: Hannah Laxton, “It’s a Wonderful Time to be in Wyoming County,” 9th Grade, Westside High School
• 2nd Place: Hannah Laxton, “Exploring the Depths: Unveiling the Dualities of Light and Darkness in Life’s Journey,” 9th Grade, Westside High School

Adult:

• 1st Place: Stephanie Adams, “A Patchwork Life,” Pineville, WV
• 2nd Place: Holly Hale, “The Grandmother She Didn’t Have To Be,” Oceana, WV

Looking Forward

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants of the 2024 Wyoming County EDA Writing Contest. Your contributions enrich our community and keep the spirit of storytelling alive. We’re looking forward to the“Celebration of Success” for the Writing Contest Winners” on August 5th at 6:00pm at the Wyoming County Board of Education office! 

Thank you to Lonnie Bailey, the Beckley Area Foundation, and the Wyoming County Board of Education for their unwavering support and dedication to promoting literary excellence in Wyoming County. Together, we are nurturing the next generation of writers and preserving our rich cultural heritage.

For more information about the Writing Contest and other initiatives, please visit our website or contact the Wyoming County EDA.