Ross Connelly, owner and publisher of the Hardwick Gazette, generated quite a bit of national news coverage when he announced on June 11 that he would hand over his community newspaper to whoever wrote the most compelling essay. 

But despite plenty of interest in his contest, Connelly said Wednesday that he hasn't received enough entries to follow through on his offer. His rules stipulated he must get at least 700. He's extending the contest, which was scheduled to end Thursday, for another 40 days, until September 20.

A press release didn't state how many entries Connelly has received, and his press contact could not immediately be reached for comment. 

A $175 entry fee must accompany each submission. Contest details are available here.

Connelly, 71, said he launched the contest hoping to preserve the 127-year-old paper, which covers 10 towns in the Northeast Kingdom.