Molly Samson, an eighth-grader at Auburn Middle School, was presented an award and check on March 12 for her winning entry into the 2007 Patriots Pen youth essay contest. The award was given in front of her classmates on Team 7. The essay theme was “Why I Am an American Patriot.” Presenting the award were Commander Carl Douglass and his wife, Charlotte Douglass, from Auburn VFW Post 1603. From left are Mrs. Douglass, Christine Samson, mother of winner, Steven Sampson, father of winner, and Douglass, with Molly in front.