For Hub City Times

STEVENS POINT — Two students from Auburndale Middle School took first place in the Fleet Reserve Association’s (FRA) area essay contest. Natalie Aue took first place at the eighth-grade level, and Makenna Yeske took first place at the seventh-grade level.

The theme for this year’s essay was “What the American flag stands for,” and the contest was open to all students in grades seven through 12, including those home-schooled. The contest was administered locally by FRA branch 238.

For taking first at the local level, both Aue and Yeske won $100, and their essays were sent to the 13-state regional competition. Aue’s essay placed third at the regional, for which she was awarded a plaque and an additional $50. Top prize at the national level is $5,000.

Branch President Michael Pohl of Rosholt recently presented Aue and Yeske with their awards. Aue is the daughter of Bob and Bobbie Jo Aue of Auburndale. Yeske is the daughter of Kevin and Susan Yeske of Auburndale.