VFW Post 212 and Frances Sherman VFW Auxiliary have announced the winners of the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay contests.

The Voice of Democracy first place winner is Brent Peterson. Brent’s essay moved on for judging at District level representing Bradford VFW Post 212.

Brent, a junior at Bradford Area High School, is the son of John and Denise Peterson. He enjoys snowboarding, working on computers and drawing. He also enjoys gaming and was a member of the High School E-sports Club. Brent plans to attend college and major in a computer programming or information technology field after graduating high school.

In the Patriot’s Pen contest, the first place winner is Cecily Bell, second place is Daniel Marasco and third place is Autumn Neumann.

Cecily Bell, 12, is the daughter of Ed and Carrie Bell. She is an avid reader and enjoys learning. In school, she is involved in the Floyd C. Fretz Middle School Band and the Science Club. She enjoys various types of dance and likes to golf in the summer months. She also coordinates collections for Operation Christmas Child with her church family.

Daniel Marasco is the son of John and Natalie Marasco. His hobbies are playing the piano, volunteering as an altar server, riding his bike, and participating in Science Club and student council. For sports, he participates in basketball, baseball and cross-country.

Autumn Neumann, 13, is the daughter of Dee and Robert Neumann. In her free time, she writes, reads and helps the community. She enjoys helping with the Blessing Boxes around the area, helping The ELF Fund, and working with the BAHS Volunteer Club placing flags at local cemeteries for Memorial Day.

The awards night Dec. 9 has been cancelled due to covid cases on the rise. All awards will be mailed to each winner.

The auxiliary and VFW are disappointed not to have the opportunity to meet the students behind the essays in person and congratulate them.