ENCYCLOPEDIA TO INCLUDE YOUTH CONTEST ENTRIES

The 2005 Centennial Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan (Esask) Project, the most ambitious print and Web-based project ever developed on the province, will consider entries to the Top This contest as part of the publication.

Top This is the new contest offering prizes to young people for winning entries about Saskatchewan firsts or achievements.

"Top This captures young people's imaginations as they record stories of Saskatchewan's achievements from arts and sports to business and education," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "Now they have added incentive to enter, with the chance to have their stories recorded for the ages in the new encyclopedia."

The Canadian Plains Research Center is leading the Esask effort, involving hundreds of researchers and volunteers to document Saskatchewan peoples, places and events for a comprehensive encyclopedia in book as well as Web format. The project will be completed in various stages from 2003 to 2005, with the goal of recognizing Saskatchewan's 100th birthday in September 2005.

"We have been collecting Saskatchewan firsts and achievements to include as part of the ESask project," project general manager David Gauthier said. "However, we would appreciate help from Saskatchewan's student population to track down and submit the many achievements of our province to the Top This contest."

The encyclopedia's editors will review Top This entries for suitable contributions. Top This was launched in April 2003 as part of the province's Our Future is Wide Open campaign.

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For More Information, Contact:

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8277

David Gauthier Canadian Plains Research Centre Regina Phone: (306) 585-4758