Editor,

I am writing to request support for the Richmond Hill High School Odyssey of the Mind Team as we attempt to secure funding to attend the 28th Annual World Finals competition.

Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students. Students apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. Their solutions are presented at competitions on the regional, state, and world level. Thousands of teams from throughout the United States and from approximately 25 other countries participate in the program.

In March, three teams from Richmond Hill High School won at the regional competition, and on April 21st, the teams won two first place and one second place awards at the Georgia state competition level. Two of these teams will now compete at the World Finals held May 22-27 at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.

Our needs are especially great as the school system is unable to provide us with any funding at this time.

- $7968 Registration, room and board for 14 students and 2 coaches ($498 each)

- $7070 Motor coach bus estimate

- $15038 Total expenses for World Finals and transportation costs

Odyssey of the Mind challenges students to solve problems. In the future, these same students will answer questions that have not yet been asked.

Any financial assistance the community can provide would be greatly appreciated. Please make checks payable to RHHS Odyssey of the Mind. You can reach me at 727-3690. Thank you.