By MaryHelen Swanson

For 60 years students have been writing essays in the Voice of Democracy (VOD) contest sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

According to NB VFW Auxiliary VOD chairwoman Phyllis Lindberg, annually more than 100,000 high school students compete for more than $2.5 million in scholarships and incentives in this contest, which is open to students in grades 9-12.

The fall 2006 contest theme was "Freedom's Challenge" and students competed by writing and recording a 3-5 minute essay.

This year, NBHS junior Amanda Johnson was the winner. She received a prize of $100 from the NB VFW Post 6424 on Friday, Jan. 12. She also received a certificate as an "Outstanding" spokesperson for freedom and another check from the 7th Dist. of the VFW.

At North Branch Middle School, students participated in the Patriot's Pen essay contest conducted nationwide by the VFW and Auxiliaries.

Locally, 7th and 8th grade students participate voluntarily. Four seventh graders entered last fall. The topic was "Citizenship in America."

On Friday, Jan. 12, these four students were recognized by members of the NB FVW and Patriot's Pen chairwoman Lindberg.

Rachel Barg was recognized as the overall winner, receiving a $100 savings bond. Danielle Inderlee earned first place and Lindsey Hess second. Kim Holmes took home third place.

The students were given brochures on flag etiquette.

Barg, along with her parents, had been honored at the 7th Dist. Patriot's Pen luncheon at the VFW Post 494, Crystal, Minn., on Dec. 17.

Twenty-eight individuals from various 7th Dist. posts and auxiliaries were honored that day.

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