By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Cassopolis Vigilant
CASSOPOLIS - William E. Lozier VFW Post 10704 and its Ladies Auxiliary presented awards to the winners in its annual essay contest.
All entries and winners were from Edwardsburg schools. both Cassopolis and Edwardsburg students were eligible.
Junior Erica Hunt's Voice of Democracy taped reading not only tied for first in the local competition, it took a first place in district and now goes on to the state level. She is 16 and the daughter of Brian and Shelia Hunt.
Senior Kati Stutsman's essay tied at the local level. Stutsman, 18, who is the daughter of Jennifer and Mike Stutsman, is a senior. They both received $100.
Receiving $50 was runner-up Aubrie Miller, 17, a junior and the daughter of Tom and Denise Miller.
Lisa Emenaker, teacher of their high school communications class attended.
Winners of the Patriots' Pen essay contest for those in sixth through eighth grade were: Cameron Breisch, 12, the son of Christine and Joe Breisch of Edwardsburg, and Steffany Streb, 13, the daughter of Michelle and Jerry Streb, who both received $100.
Streb's essay won second place at the district competition.
Runner-up was Eric Stoneburner, who received $50, but was unable to attend due to a broken leg. His teacher Leslie Zech accepted his awards.
All winners took home a certificate, flag set and lapel pin. All 45 contestants who participated will be given certificates from the VFW.