Rumford Lodge of Elks 862 recently held an Americanism essay contest for area fifth-, sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders. The theme was “Why I’m Proud to be an American.” Each student received a certificate of participation and an Americanism pencil. St. Athanasius St. John winners were Ryan Nicols and Abby Day, center, shown with Americanism Chairwoman Debi Briggs, left, and teacher Diane Shorey. Absent was Nathan Fitzpatrick.