On January 22, at the Julius A. Wendt Elementary School, 3rd grader Konner Reese was presented with an award for winning 3rd place in the VFW State Youth Essay competition. Konner won 1st place in Wahkiakum Post 5297's and District 16's competitions. Winners of the State competition were announced at the VFW State Mid-Winter Conference held in Yakima on January 18. Pictured is Konner with left: Wahkiakum Post 5297 Commander Bill Tawater and right: Post 5297 and District 16 Essay Program Director Bob Roche. Courtesy photo.