Students competed in the Patriot’s Pen essay contest themed “The America I Believe In.” Pictured in front are Nikki Anderson, Marissa Martinez, Jennifer Zhang, Ava Cunningham (third place) and Kaitlyn Klocke; an in back are Stephanie Galvan, Luke Wangsness, William Todd, Trinity Buschman, Abigail Chalmers (first place) and Ella Bordeaux (second place). Not pictured is Victor Salazar. Pictured with the students are Marilyn Danielsen, Freemond Madsen VFW 447 youth chairwoman, and representative Marcie Peterson. The theme for 2017 and 2018 is “America ‘s Gift to My Generation.” The essay contest encourages young minds in modern American society. For more information, contact Danielsen at 507-402-7080. Essays are due Oct. 31. - Provided