POTSDAM -- Students are invited to participate in the 17th annual World in Potsdam Diversity Festival's writing contest.

The contest will run in conjunction with the Nov. 6 festival at Clarkson University which celebrates the rich diversity of the residents of the North Country. The festival will showcase world dances, food, games, crafts, songs, and other cultural activities.

The writing contest gives students an opportunity to learn about world cultures.

The winner of the fifth grade and under age group will receive $20, second place will receive $15, and three runners-up will receive $10.

In the sixth to eighth grade age group, the winner will receive $30, second place will receive $20, and three runners-up will receive $10.

For the ninth to 12th grade age group, first place will receive $40, second place will receive $25, and three runners-up will receive $15.

Participants should visit www.worldinpotsdam.org for a list of themes, rules and other information. Entry deadline is Oct. 13.

The World in Potsdam is sponsored by Clarkson, SUNY Potsdam, and the Village of Potsdam. The writing contest is co-sponsored by the SUNY Potsdam College Writing Center.