MONROE - The Monroe Noon Optimists are sponsoring a student essay contest centered around a theme of "How can I help my friends realize their value?"

The winning essay will receive a prize of $150 and be sent on to the district level contest, where the first place essay wins a $2,500 scholarship.

Entries, which must be submitted on or before Sunday, Feb. 10, can be mailed to: Laurie Knoke, 2812 1st St., Monroe, WI 53566.

For more information, visit www.optimist.org.