"Is Our Constitution Still Relevant?" was the theme of the 2012-13 Voice of Democracy Contest sponsored by the National Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Held on local, district, state and national levels, students vied for a top $30,000 scholarship and more than $2.2 million in scholarships and incentives.

Parkland High students again participated, with three freshman entering winning audios and essays.

Post 12099 asks its members and other residents of the community to serve as judges.

Kyle Cohick, son of Martin and Mary Kelly Cohick of Schnecksville, was the first-place winner.

Marali Kalra, daughter of Vivek and Leslie Kalra of Allentown, took home second place; and Audrey Blizard, daughter of Tamara and Rob Blizard of Allentown, placed third.

The three winners received plaques as well as monetary prizes from Post 12099. Kyle's entry won second prize at the district level as well.

The Military Nursing Corps of Pennsylvania VFW Post 12099 sponsors the annual contest at Parkland High School and encourages other schools and students to enter.

The Voice of Democracy competition began in 1947 and now has more than 45,000 entries each year from students in grades nine-12, who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States and its territories.

The theme for 2013-2014, with entries due through a local VFW Post by Nov. 1, 2013, is "Why I'm Optimistic About our Nation's Future."

The National Association of Secondary School Principals has placed the VOD program on the National Advisory List of Contests for 2012-13.

Interested teachers and students may contact Commander Joe Zeller at 610-298-3254, their local VFW Post or visit vfw.org for information.