Keegan Walls, now an eighth grader at Mathews High School, was the winner of the 2024-2025 American Legion, Department of Virginia, middle school essay contest for the district level. Walls was tasked with writing an essay starting with the phrase “I like living in America because …” As winner at the district level, he received a check for $50. His civics teacher Angela Foster (not pictured) also received a $50 check to purchase school supplies and materials. The student’s essay will now advance to statewide competition. Presenting Walls with his check is Ron Lambert, Youth and Americanism Committee chair for American Legion Post #83. Also pictured are seventh grade English teacher Mary Beth Burroughs and, at right, Thomas Hunter Middle School principal Jodie Simpson....