Focus on Education: Olive Garden holds contest

Olive Garden is sponsoring the Pasta Tales national essay writing contest, with entries accepted through March 22. Students in first through 12th grades may submit an essay of 50 to 250 words on the topic: "How would you help end hunger in your community?" The grand-prize winner will receive a $2,500 savings bond and trip to New York City. For more information, go to www.olivegarden.com/About-Us/News-and-Media/Pasta-Tales.

KOHL'S CARES: Nominations for outstanding young volunteers are open through March 15 for the 2013 Kohl's Cares Scholarship Program. Nominations, made by someone 21 or older, can be made for volunteers ages 6 to 18. Top winners each will receive $10,000 for higher education. For more information, go to http://kohlskids.com.

GIRLS IN SCIENCE: L'Oreal USA has launched www.forgirlsinscience.org, a website designed to inspire and empower girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Its features include videos of female scientists on the job, a career personality quiz, facts on famous women and career opportunities, and summer and weekend camps.