Every cover has a story

The American First Day Cover Society is holding their annual "Every Cover Has a Story Contest" now through June.

They hope to encourage young people to become novice "cover exhibitors" by doing a short write-up (100 words) about a cover that means something special to them. The cover can be a first day cover, a special event cover, or any other interesting envelope that went through the mail. It can be from anyone or any place. They do not have to make the cover themselves.

The contest is open to young people in five age groups: 8 and younger, 9 to 11, 12 to 14, 15 or 16, and 17 or 18. Their age at the time of the contest deadline is what counts. Exhibits should be mailed to arrive not later than June 15, 2006. Each contestant may enter only once.

By the way, this is a great way to introduce young people to the hobby. Just by showing them some covers and telling about them you might spark their interest. Then ask if they would like to enter a contest where they could win a prize.

If you want to be extra nice, you can award them your own prize just for entering. A start-up stamp collecting kit, a trip to the post office and an ice cream sundae. You get the idea.

The American First Day Cover Society (AFDCS) is a volunteer non-profit and non-commerical organization serving the needs of First Day Cover collectors, cachetmakers, and dealers. Founded in 1955, the society now has a membership of nearly 3,000 active first day cover collectors, including hundreds of collectors who design and manufacture their own cacheted FDCs.

For more information on the contest, click here.