By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor

Once again, Pennsauken children have a chance to put a spotlight on the man or woman in their lives who they think should be named the Best Mom, Dad, or Guardian in Pennsauken.

An annual contest, children in grades three, four, and five in a Pennsauken public, parochial, or private school may submit a letter saying why they believe their mom, dad, or guardian is the “best.”

The contests are sponsored by the Pennsauken Youth Action Committee and the deadline for entries is Friday, May 3.

“Year after year, we get great submissions from the kids about the important people in their lives. We’re really looking forward to reading the new ones for 2019,” says Elwood Martz, who helps organize the contest. “If you’ve never sent a letter in for this contest, we encourage those children eligible to participate to do so; and for those third, fourth and fifth graders who sent in letters in the past and haven’t won yet, don’t be afraid to try again. This could be your year!”

The first-, second- and third-place winners will receive recognition and prizes at the Township Committee’s meeting on Thursday, May 30, held at 5:30 p.m. in the Township Municipal Building, 5605 N. Crescent Blvd.

The winning Best Mom essay for 2018 was written by by Junell Alvarez about her mother, Raquel, a loving LPN who can really cook. Lauren Nguyen wrote about Dennis, her “brave, big brother” who serves in the Air Force, in her winning essay. Clayton Thomas, Sydney McCurry, Hoa Son, and Rachel Biehl received honorable mention in 2018 for their submissions.

Judging

Letters will be judged by a panel on originality, content and ability to express feelings and ideas.

How to Enter

All entries for both contests may be mailed to “Best Mom, Dad or Guardian Contest,” Pennsauken Municipal Building, 5605 N. Crescent Blvd., Pennsauken 08110, Attn. Elwood Martz. Letters may also be e-mailed to emartz@twp.pennsauken.nj.us.