The deadline to submit essays in this year’s Tidewater Oyster Gardeners Association (TOGA) High School Essay Contest is Dec. 15. After sponsoring successful middle school writing contests for 11 years, TOGA changed the contest to offer it to high school students. The change was made because many high school students are anxious to find money to help continue their education, a release said. Prizes will be $500, $250 and $100 for first, second and third places for the top three essays. A prize of $200 will also be awarded to the school of the top entry. The theme is “Consider the Oyster”—a category that must include an essay that has something to do with oysters. The competition is open to all Virginia high school students. Homeschooled students are encouraged to enter, the release said. Winners will be announced at the TOGA membership party on March 20, 2027 at the Camp Kekoka Boys and Girls Club Camp near Kilmarnock in Lancaster County. The three top winners will be published on the T...