Imagine what? Flights of fancy? Things that were? Things that could be? Things that have never been? Stories of life? Stories of dreams? A better me? A better you? Fanciful creatures? Great teachers?

All these and more piqued the imaginations of writers who entered the sixth annual John Hughes Young Writers Contest, which was based on the theme Imagine That!

The contest, sponsored by the Deseret News, was open to all juniors and seniors in private and public schools in Utah.

"We value good, clear writing and the careful thought that such writing requires," Deseret News editor Joe Cannon says. "Encouraging and recognizing such efforts among high school students continues, we believe, to be a worthy goal."

Many outstanding entries were submitted in this year's contest, making it a difficult decision for the judges.

First place winner is Micail Mann, Sky View High School, who receives a $1,000 savings bond.

Second place went to Emily Chandler, Davis High School, who receives a $500 savings bond.

Third place is Andrew Rouse, Highland High School, who receives at $250 savings bond.

The Deseret News thanks all students who participated in the contest, and encourages them all to keep writing, Cannon says.

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E-mail: carma@desnews.com