The local VFW reminds parents and students of two of its annual scholarships.

The “Voice of Democracy” audio-essay contest is open to all students, including home-schooled students, in grades 9-12 and who are Montana residents. This year’s contest theme is “American History: Our hope for the Future.”

Entries must be received by midnight Oct. 31 at the local VFW Post. Local first, second and third place winners will be determined, and the first place winner will eventually be sent to VFW national headquarters for final judging.

First-, second- and third-place scholarships will be $30,000, $16,000 and $10,000, respectively. In addition, fourth through 36th place winners will receive scholarships ranging from $7,000 to $1,500, and 37th through 54th place winners will get a $1,000 scholarship.

The second contest, called “Patriot’s Pen,” is open to all students, including home-schooled students, in grades 6-8 and who are Montana residents. This year’s contest theme is “America’s Gift to my Generation.”

Entries must be received by midnight Oct. 31 at the local VFW Post. Local first, second and third place winners will be determined, and the first place winner will eventually be sent to VFW national headquarters for final judging.

First-, second- and third-place scholarships will be $5,000, $4,000 and $3,500, respectively. In addition, fourth through 46th place winners will receive scholarships ranging from $2,750 to $500.

For more information contact the office at your school or call the VFW at 406-293-7316 or Stella Sharp at 406-293-7354.