JAY – Melanie Robitaille’s essay, “Our Flag – What It Means to Me,” placed first at the local level in a contest sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Robitaille was in a sixth-grade language arts class at Jay Middle School when she penned her winning words. According to judge Mary Beth Morrison of New Sharon, Melanie’s essay was selected because of its originality and use of symbolism, family traditions and personal experiences.

She is the daughter of Michael and Regina Robitaille of Jay. Robitaille was presented a personal flag by Kay Seefeldt, Colonial Daughters of Farmington. Her essay will be judged at the state level this summer.