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JFK
President John F. Kennedy's assassination is an unforgettable part of Dallas' history.Nearly 54 years later, scholars and enthusiasts alike are still processing details from that fateful drive through Dealey Plaza now that the remaining investigation files have been unsealed. For the 50th anniversary in 2013, KERA produced special stories and reports from the commemoration:The 50th: Remembering John F. Kennedy was KERA's live, two-hour special covering the official commemoration event at Dealey Plaza in Dallas on Nov. 22, 2013. Hosted by Krys Boyd and Shelley Kofler, the special includes reports from KERA reporters before the ceremony begins. Listen to the special here.Bells tolled across the city, and the event featured historian David McCullough, who read from Kennedy’s presidential speeches; Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings; religious leaders; the U.S. Naval Academy Men’s Glee Club; and a moment of silence. Read highlights from the event from KERA's live blog from that day.Throughout the month, KERA posted an online series called 22 Days In November, which takes a closer look at that fateful day, what it meant to the country and how it affected Dallas.We shared stories and memories in a series called “JFK Voices.” Explore our archives below.

JFK Voices: An Eighth Grader Recounts Kennedy's Legacy

Teriana Ward's essay is entitled, "The Effects of John Fitzgerald Kennedy's Presidency On Today's Society."

Eighth graders at Kennedy-Curry Middle School in Dallas entered an essay contest about the legacy of John F. Kennedy. The winners were announced Wednesday. Here's the winning essay, written by Teriana Ward:

John Fitzgerald Kennedy was a brilliant man groomed for eminence. He was an excellent scholar; he earned the Purple Heart for Bravery, and went on to become the 35th president of the United States of America. JFK's presidency touched the lives of millions and helped to procure the opportunities that we have today. His voice provided an optimistic outlook and helped to form a reality of the dream many had for a better tomorrow.

President Kennedy created the Peace Corps program to send U.S volunteers to help spread democracy and assist people living in third-world countries. The Peace Corps assists individuals in building better lives for themselves, promotes world peace and friendship. President Kennedy initiated this program and today it is still transforming the lives of people daily.

John F. Kennedy was a competitive and innovative man. He was taught from an early age to always strive for perfection. The Soviet Union sent the first human to outer space in April 1961. Kennedy urged the government for additional funding and in May of 1961, America also sent a human to space.

Kennedy projected that America would send a man to the moon within a decade; His goal was achieved in July 1969! Today space exploration is still a U.S Priority thanks to Kennedy's vision!

Kennedy was a superb public speaker. Kennedy's Inaugural Address urged Americans to serve their county. This honorable quote remains well-known, 'My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.' Today many U.S citizens bravely serve in the military.

President Kennedy was a peaceful and wise man. He negotiated with the Soviet Union and reached an agreement to ban testing of nuclear weapons in the atmosphere, space, and underwater. This Nuclear Test Ban Treaty was one of the major accomplishments of his presidency; today limiting nuclear weapon usage is still important to our society.

Violence was breaking out all over the south and Kennedy was convinced of the dire need of a Civil Rights Bill. Kennedy spoke out against segregation and encouraged impartiality for all. Dr.King is the well-known figure of the Civil Rights Movement, and J. F.Kennedy was the man behind the scenes helping to push for legislation to support the cause. JFK appointed African Americans to federal government jobs, five of those being federal judges! JFK helped to get us the rights we have today!

John F. Kennedy was a remarkable president who inspired future generations. Many of the privileges we have today were established during Kennedy's presidency. I am so grateful that Kennedy sparked the flame that led to equality and justice for all U.S. Citizens. The effects of John Fitzgerald Kennedy's presidency are truly profound and everlasting!

Former KERA staffer Krystina Martinez was an assistant producer. She produced local content for Morning Edition and KERANews.org. She also produced The Friday Conversation, a weekly series of conversations with North Texas newsmakers. Krystina was also the backup newscaster for the Texas Standard.