Rigalt family wins Mother's Day Contest

A few weeks ago, the West Orange Times & Observer announced our search for the best mom in West Orange. We asked local children ages 5 to 12 to nominate their moms with heartfelt, hand-written essays, and they certainly did not disappoint.

We received some incredible entries that pay incredible tribute to some of West Orange’s best moms. Here, we present our winner, Alyssa Rigalt, along with our three honorable mentions.

Alyssa’s mom, Kathy Rigalt, will receive a $100 gift card, dinner for two at The Big Easy, a bouquet of flowers from Shaw’s Florist and a spa gift certificate from Asian Retreat.

WINNING ENTRY

Dear Mom,

Your day is more important than Christmas, my birthday or even Valentine’s Day — Mother’s Day. On that day, all I think about is you. Your hugs are warmer than your heart-shaped cookies in the oven. You make me more comfortable than the bed you tuck me in at night. You care for me more than Care Bears combined! When rooms are dark, you light it up by smiling. Your voice sounds sweeter than the world’s best opera house. When you tuck me in at night, the moon lights on you … nobody else. And when it’s Mother’s Day, all those things are still the same, because you do it greater and greater every day. I love you, Mom!

Alyssa Rigalt, fourth grade

Whispering Oak Elementary

HONORABLE MENTIONS

My mom is the best mom ever! She is sweet, kind, loving, patient and has lots of self-control. When she gets mad, instead of pulling out her hair, she sings. My mom is also very protective, She buys us what we want, and she cooks, cleans our rooms and puts a roof over our head. She also washes our clothes and gives us consequences — that is why I’m not spoiled. She does everything she can to keep us fed. She would break her bones to keep us safe, but the thing is, even though she wants us to stay safe, she still lets us have fun. That is just the beginning. My mom has a different and special personality that nobody can take from her. When I need her, she is there. That is why my mom is the best mom ever.

Kylie Vines, fifth grade

Hope Charter School

My mom is the best because she is a good cooker, and she is the best at making mac-and-cheese, and she never gets mad at us. I never complain about everything she makes. My mom loves me so much. She hugs and kisses. That is why my mom is the best.

Addison Sims, second grade

Hope Charter School

My grandma is the best, because she takes me to places and takes care of me. My grandma is kind, sweet and awesome. My grandma is working hard to make me pass fifth grade and trying hard to get me to sixth grade. My grandma already had kids, and she is working extra hard. My grandma is the best! I love you, Grandma! Happy Mother’s Day, Grandma!

Chase Dewitt, fifth grade

Hope Charter School