Youth Writing Contest Winners Announced

Left to right, Ava Howdershelt, Middle School Second Place; Rachel Norris, Middle School First Place; Gabriella Iwunor, High School Second Place; Alanna Howdershelt, High School First Place

The Barbour County Republican Party recently held an Essay Contest for the students of Barbour County. The assigned topic regarded elections in America, why they are important, and how to be an informed voter.

Several area students participated, and their essays were judged anonymously by three local judges. The winners were announced at the Republican Executive Committee’s meeting last week.

First place for the High School Division was Alanna Howdershelt, a Senior and daughter of Desiree and Bradley Howdershelt. Second place went to Gabriella Iwunor, a Junior and daughter of Steven and Lori Iwunor. In the Middle School Division, 8th grader Rachel Norris won First Place. She is the daughter of Samantha and Aaron Norris. Second Place went to Ava Howdershelt, an 8th grade student and daughter of Desiree and Bradley Howdershelt. All of the winners are students at the New Life Homeschool Co-op in Barbour County.

First Place winners in each age division received $100 and their essays are being published in the Barbour Democrat. Second Place winners received a prize of $50. The Barbour County GOP expressed their appreciation to all the students who participated and the local judges who volunteered their time to review all the essays.