Youth notes

• The Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary will sponsor an essay-writing contest for 6th-graders in the Bend-La Pine Schools. In 300 to 350 words, students are asked to write without reference to political parties, policies or specific candidates, the importance of voting as a way for Americans to express themselves in local, state and national elections. Essays must be titled “Why Americans Should Vote” and be written legibly on double-spaced lined paper. All entries must be submitted by Oct. 12. to the DAV Auxiliary at 1503 Fourth St., Bend. Students are asked to include a cover letter with their name, age, grade, school and if the essay was written as part of a larger class project or independently. Teachers interested in sponsoring a class project are asked to call the DAV at 541-815-6558.

FAN notes

• Family Access Network has received a $500 grant from the Rotary Club of Crook County. The funds will be used to assist low-income students in Crook County who do not have access to laundry facilities. Students will receive a preloaded laundry card to use at a Prineville laundromat.