Veterans of Foreign Wars Patriot’s Pen winners were Karla Vazquez, first place; Bree Weilage, second place; and Braydin Kirsch, third place. All participants received prizes. Those pictured are, front row, Darcy Whelan, Weilage, Sophie Quam, Ayna Murray and Vazquez; and, back row, Marilyn Danielsen - youth activates chairwoman, Alex Lazaro, Shaelee Lambertson, Bailey Wood, Hannah Schumacker, Hailey Deming, Kirsch, Marcia Petersen and Marilyn Grasdalen. The theme for this year was “Why I honor the American flag.” The upcoming theme will be “What makes America great.” Essays will be due Oct. 31. - Provided