March 28, 2024

Diego Hurtado places first at state level

Diego Hurtado, a Clarke fifth-grade student, was informed June 1 that his submission in the annual American Legion, Department of Iowa, Fifth Grade Flag Essay Contest, had taken first place at the state level.

Hurtado’s winning essay, one among nearly 6,000 entries, was selected by the State Children and Youth Committee, and supported by The American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

Hurtado is the recipient of a $300 award. This award will be presented to him at the 95th Annual Department Convention at the Sioux City Convention Center July 13. He will be presenting his essay during the afternoon session, “What the Flag Means To Me.” He has also been invited to ride in a convertible with other essay winners during the evening parade.

Diego is the son of Sofia Rodriquez and Andres Hurtado of Osceola, and is a recent student of Craig Wisniewski, Clarke fifth-grade teacher.

Clarke Community School District is grateful for this opportunity to participate in the local contest sponsored by Davis-Pence Post No. 69.

In May, John Sharp, post commander, awarded Hurtado notification he was advancing from the district level to the state level. Sharp presented Hurtado and his parents a letter notifying him of his accomplishments.