Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2922 is accepting entries for the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy student essay competitions through Oct. 31.

The theme for both 2026-27 competitions is “What a Veteran Taught Me About America.”

Patriot’s Pen is open to students in grades six through eight and requires a written essay of 300 to 400 words. The national first-place winner receives a $5,000 award.

Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades nine through 12 and requires a recorded essay lasting three to five minutes. The national first-place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship.

Both competitions also offer awards at the local, district and state levels.

Scholarship information and submission instructions are available at oakdalevfw.com/programs.html. Contact info@oakdalevfw.org or 209-322-9699.

Official contest rules and entry forms are also available on the VFW youth scholarships website.

Meanwhile, comedian Robert Omoto will join Branson Garza at the Veterans Appreciation Lasagna Dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at the Gene Bianchi Community Center, 110 S. Second Ave., Oakdale.

Doors will open at 5 p.m., with dinner scheduled for 5:30 p.m. The event will include a lasagna dinner and comedy performances in recognition of veterans and in support of VFW Post 2922.

Tickets cost $20 per person or $150 for a table of eight. Organizers said a limited number of tables remain available.