The National Trust for Historic Preservation has announced the official start of the 2002 National Historic Preservation Week poster contest. Any school, nonprofit organization or state/local government can enter to win as much as $2,000 in prizes. Preservation Week is an annual nationwide celebration that will take place May 12-18, 2002.

The winning poster will embody the theme, “Preserving the Spirit of Place,” which is about more than saving historic buildings. It’s about embracing the many layers of our past. From Native American archaeology to Atlanta’s inner neighborhoods, America’s heritage belongs to everyone from all walks of life. Celebrating the rich tapestry of America’s past is essential to ensuring its future – and Preservation Week is the time for communities to show how they value the diversity that make them unique. The National Trust is looking for colorful, creative and evocative entries.

The winning poster will become the National Trust’s official Preservation Week poster, and will be seen in displays and celebrations across the nation. Last year, three winners and 10 honorable mentions were chosen from 145 entries nationwide.

The National Trust will award cash prizes of $2,000, $1,500 and $1,000 to the top three winners. The deadline is Jan. 4, 2002.

Certain rules and requirements apply; call (202) 588-6037, e-mail preservationweek@nthp.org, or go to www.nationaltrust.org/

preservationweek for nformation.

Since 1971, the National Trust has sponsored Preservation Week, an opportunity for communities to shine the spotlight on the many facets of their unique heritage.

The National Trust’s official poster will be available in February. For tips on planning and promoting Preservation Week events, visit www.nationaltrust.org/

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The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting the irreplaceable. With more than a quarter million members nationwide, it provides leadership, education and advocacy to save America’s diverse historic places and revitalize communities. It has six regional offices and 20 historic sites and works with thousands of local community groups in all 50 states. For more information, visit www.

nationaltrust.org.