Each year the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks nationally through their Americanism Committees hold an Essay contest for 5th – 8th grade students. Each state including Connecticut use the same theme for judging purposes. Each year we decide on a new theme, this year’s theme being, “What does it mean to love your country? “This patriotic contest gives school children an opportunity to express their pride in America. Fostering our youth’s appreciation and respect for patriotism is central to understanding our country’s heritage. Elk’s all across the country enthusiastically endorse this program because patriotism is one of the Elk’s cornerstones. Many thanks go out to all the students, parents, guardians and teachers that allow this essay to take place each year.
This year’s submissions were excellent and certainly made the job of judging quite difficult. We enjoyed reading all the essays and appreciate all the hard work that went into them. We are extremely proud of all the contestants.
I’m proud to announce this year’s winners;
Division 1 – Grades 5-6
1st place – Aubrey Miklavzina – Waterbury Lodge
2nd place – Sofia Grace Abissi – Wallingford Lodge
3rd place – Molly Bardales – New Britain Lodge
Division 2
1st place – Lucy Adams – Derby Lodge
2nd place – Ella Beatty – New Britain Lodge
3rd place – Tin Nguyen – Derby Lodge