GORHAM, ME (June 3, 2022) — The Gorham Republican Committee is pleased to announce the winners of the eighth annual Madison Prize for Written Excellence. This essay contest was open to all 6th, 7th and 8^th grade students who live in the Town of Gorham. This year there were entries from 52 very talented and thoughtful students. The question this year was, “Why is capitalism a better economic system than socialism?”

Entries were scored anonymously on knowledge, clarity of ideas and persuasiveness, with one winner and two runners up selected by the Committee. The essay awards each runner up a scholarship of $100. There were many strong contenders, but this year the runner up prizes were awarded to Sophie Giberson (Gr 8) and Stella Moores (Gr 8). The first place winner is awarded a $250 scholarship. This year, the Committee is very proud to announce Arabella Bradley (Gr 7) as the winner of the Madison Prize for Written Excellence. Congratulations Arabella!  

The Committee judges included Barry Hadlock, Carole Hadlock, Jamie Douglas, Susanne Roberge, Judy Falk, James Falk and Liesl Turner. The Committee would like to thank the Gorham Middle School staff for its support, and all the students who participated for their hard work and their passion for knowledge. You make Gorham proud!

Below: Arabella Bradley (Gr 7), the winner of the Madison Prize for Written Excellence.