Aubrey Shenton, 2007 overall winner in our annual Patriotic Essay Contest, with Chairman Charles Hurley (left) and President Edwin Larmore (right) at the annual Chicone Awards Banquet. Aubrey currently attends sixth grade at North Dorchester Middle School. All winners receive U.S. Savings Bonds.

The stars on the flag remind me of the soldiers who have fallen, or survived and are still continuing to serve so bravely. The red stripes on the flag remind me of the sacrifice of the thirteen colonies that won our freedom from the British. How proud we were that our flag was still standing. The white stripes represent the peace in every home across America knowing there are those who will defend and protect our great country.

The flag gives us freedom of religion. My great grandfather died with a bible in his hands and a love for his country in his heart and so will I!

One of our other freedoms is education. You can dream it, and then become it. Hard work and dedication is the recipe for success in our country. The freedom of speech is one of my favorites because I am opinionated. Even at my young age I can protest against anything I do not believe in or I think is morally wrong.

My roots are deep in the ground in this country because of my family that came before me. For all those who have served past and present the flag means many things, but as for me in a way, the flag is the reason I am here today.

6th Grade: (L-R) Teacher Mr. Len Mueller, 1st Place Winner Aubrey Shenton, Co-Runner-Ups Kaila Fleishman and Rebekah Palamaras.

7th Grade: (L-R) Co-Runner-Ups Arielle Basel, Ariana Spilloman-Wise, 1st Place Winner Meghan Thompson, and Teacher Mr. Mark Laurie.

8th Grade: (L-R) Teacher Mrs. Valerie Lomax, Co-Runner-Up Judi Brock, 1st Place Winner Achia Thompson, and Co-Runner-Up Kayla McGrath.

Mrs. Valerie Lomax, Patriotic Essay Contest Coordinator is recognized by Vice-President Charles Hurley for her years of outstanding assistance to the club.