THS and TMS students entered in the annual VFW Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay contests, respectively.

Tonganoxie VFW Post 9271 and the Ladies Auxiliary treated the top essay writers to pizza. The students then recited their essays to the crowd and were given awards and certificates for their winning essays.

In the Voice of Democracy competition, Halston Field took first place, Hunter Cook second and Celeste Bartels third. Kathy Nolan is their English teacher.

In the Patriot’s Pen competition essay contest, Austin Ballard took first, Mason Barnes second and Kasey Gardner third. Their teachers are Jennifer Estes, Kim Woodall and Debbie Holloway.

Winners received cash prizes of $100, $75 and $50.