Sophomore receives Patriotic award

VFW Post 8138 Sisters, presented Sophia Gerke the Post Patriotic Post Award on May 28 during the Sisters High School awards ceremony. Gerke's entry was awarded two gold flag pins for her parents as well as a letter of accomplishment from VFW and a monetary award of $400.

Gerke on her art work:

"My name is Sophia Gerke and in my painting, simplicity reigns, with the American Flag standing boldly at the center, surrounded by a vibrant array of handprints in various colors. This symbolizes the diverse tapestry of our nation. While I acknowledge the equal rights bestowed upon us by our country, I am also aware of the challenges we face in fully recognizing and respecting these rights in our interactions with one another. Nevertheless, the beauty of America lies in its embrace of differences in our diverse cultures, religions, and ethnicities, and the freedom to make individual choices. Isn't that the essence of America? A place where the flag serves as a unifying symbol, and our differences blend together in a harmonious composition, creating a nation enriched by its diversity."