The DeFuniak Business and Professional Association recently sponsored it's first annual Scholarship EssayContest for all eleventh grade students throughout Walton County, including students who are home schooled. The topics were geared to the advantages of living and doing business inour area and/or what DeFuniak Springs Hometown Christmas celebration means to the writer. This year's scholarship first, second and third place winners were _________________, Candace Totten and Jessica Cox respectively. All winners were eleventh grade students from Paxton High School; students throughout Walton County were included in the contest.

DBPA Board Member Karen Butts, a former high school teacher, contacted all Walton County high schools several times to garner support and participation in the essay contest. The winners receive scholarships ranging from $500 to $150 and will be asked to represent DBPA at various functions. The contest is expected to be held again next year.

The Chamber of Commerce congratulates the winners and is pleased to print the winning essay.

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