Talents on display

The annual Mr. Elk contest is a fundraiser for the Elkhorn Area High School forensics program. Contestants in this year’s event were, from the left: (front row) Dwayne Arnold, 9th grade; Jusiah Nelson, 9th grade; Mitch Falcon, 11th grade; (back) Randy Jacobs, 10th grade; Mr. Elk 2021 – Matt Franz, 12th grade; Jordan Johnson, 12th grade; Jake Mogensen, 12th grade; and Jaden Nickelsen, 12th grade. Franz is the only Mr. Elk to win back-to-back years. The students compete in the following categories: talent, photogenic, evening wear and interview. See more photos in the Feb. 4 Independent. (Dave Dresdow photo)