Read the winning essays in the Jan. 16, 2008 print edition of the Post Review.

On Thursday, Dec. 20, North Branch VFW auxiliary to Post 6424 President Valerie Nelson and the Auxiliary's Americanism chairman Phyllis Lindberg went to the North Branch high school and middle school on behalf of the Auxiliary to award the prizes to the winners of the Voice of Democracy (9-12 gr.) and Patriots Pen (7-8 gr.) competitions.

At the high school, Amanda Johnson, a senior, was given a $100 cash award for her first-place essay titled "My Role in Honoring America's Veterans."

Second prize of a $50 Savings Bond was awarded to sophomore Bradi Herdina. At the middle school, first prize of a $100 Savings Bond was presented to Kari Lee Berggren for her first-place essay, "Why I am an American Patriot."

Second prize of a $50 Savings Bond was awarded to Kelley Hatch.

On Friday, Jan. 4, Amanda Johnson and Kari Berggren, along with their parents, were guests at the 7th District Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen banquet in Fridley. The 23 top students from 11 posts and auxiliaries were honored and the first place winners announced and essays read by the winning students.

A unique situation arose with both top prizes awarded to sisters Kelly Rexon from Jefferson High School for the Voice of Democracy and Kate Rexon for the Patriots Pen from the middle school, both sponsored by the Everett McClay Post/Auxiliary #1296.