FARMINGTON – Alexandra Mason, a seventh-grade student at Mt. Blue Middle School, has received a first-place recognition award from the Maine State Organization of the Daughters of the American Revolution for her winning essay, “The American Flag, Fabric of America.”

Colonial Daughters Chapter, DAR, submitted Mason’s essay to the state flag chairman. Other DAR chapters from around the state also submitted entries to be judged by a panel. The first place selection was based on interest, originality, spelling, grammar, punctuation and neatness.

Mason, daughter of Christopher and Debra Mason of Wilton, was a sixth-grade student at Academy Hill School when her essay was submitted last June.

Each year the state DAR organization sponsors the contest, “Our Flag – What It Means to Me.” DAR wants to promote awareness of young people of their responsibilities to their country and to instill in them the honor and respect that is due the national symbol. The contest is open to any sixth- or seventh-grade student, public, private or home schooled, as long as they are living in Maine.