Barb Labate, Fifth Grade Flag Essay Chairman, fifth grade social studies middle school teacher Hailey Molayal, first place winner Riah Riphagen, second place winner Nora Nelson, third place winner Zoey Kenndy-McCormick, and Post #11 Commander Fred Long.

The Jefferson American Legion Post #11 recently announced its winners for a youth competition.

Barb Labate is the chair of the American Legion Fifth Grade Flag Essay Contest and says three students were selected as the best examples of explaining the topic “What the Flag Means to Me.” She tells Raccoon Valley Radio that first place went to Riah Riphagen, second place was Nora Nelson and Zoey Kennedy-McCormick was third place. Labate notes that Riphagen also received $100, Nelson took home $75 and Kennedy-McCormick earned $50. 

Labate points out that this contest is meant to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the US Flag and promote knowledge of etiquette and respect for the flag. She explains that the essays consist of 300 words or less, using 12-point font, double-spaced and the students are encouraged to show facts from the US Flag Code. 

Labate adds that Riphagen is invited to recite her essay at next year’s Memorial Day service at the Jefferson City Cemetery.