Needham heading to state competition

Earlier this school year, students at Thermopolis Middle School tested their knowledge of geography with eighth grader Jonah Needham emerging the victor. Because of that first place, he was able to take an online quiz. Though given an hour to take the quiz, Needham said he finished it in 20 minutes and believes he got around 65 of them right.

Being a top scorer on the quiz qualified Needham to compete at the Wyoming State National Geographic GeoBee on March 29 at the Casper College Gateway Building. Students will compete for a top prize of $1,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. for the National Championship.

As for geography as a passion, Needham said, "I just know it," though he added he reads quite a bit of history.

In addition to the $1,000 scholarship, this year the national champion will receive a $25,000 scholarship, a lifetime membership in the National Geographic Society, and a trip to the Galápagos Islands.