Students competing in the Patriot’s Pen Contest include, first row, Ava Corey-Gruenes, Brennan McCalla — local first-place winner and third-place winner at the district level, Malana Thompson and Jenna Steffl. Second row, Samantha Brumbaugh, Adriana Brumbaugh, Yamir Sok Amador, Vayda Stadheim and Taylor Palmer. Also pictured with them are Marilyn Danielsen of the Freemond Madsen VFW Auxilliary youth Chairwoman; and Marcie Peterson, VFW Auxiliary No. 447 representative. The theme for 2016-17’s contest is “The America I Believe in.” The essay contest encourages young minds to examine their own experiences in modern American society. For more information, contact Danielsen at 507-402-7080. Essays are due Nov. 1. -Provided