The Vinton Luncheon Lions Club has announced the winners of the annual Peace Poster Contest sponsored at William Byrd Middle School. Timber Raines won first place; Elsie Kincer, second place; and Kendal Seale, third place. All are eighth graders. Artwork was judged on its originality, artistic merit, and portrayal of the contest theme “The Future of Peace.”
Lion Betty Reynolds said there were 39 entries in this, the fifth year of the contest— the most ever to submit works of art. All received certificates for participating. Judges were impressed by the expression and creativity of the students submitting posters.
“It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them,” said Reynolds. “I am so proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions.”
Raines’ poster will advance to the district level competition giving her the opportunity to become an internationally recognized artist. One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected internationally. The grand prize includes a cash award of $5,000, plus a trip for the winner and two family members to an awards ceremony. The 23 merit award winners receive a certificate and a cash award of $500.
“Our club is cheering for Timber as her poster advances in the competition, and we hope that her vision will ultimately be shared with others around the world,” said Reynolds.
The three top winners received McDonald’s gift certificates in addition to certificates of participation.
Approximately 600,000 students entered the Peace Poster Contest worldwide in this 30th annual Lions Club event. Lions Club International sponsors the contest “to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.”
Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with over 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographic areas around the world. In addition to its efforts toward conquering blindness, the organization has made a strong commitment to community service and helping youth throughout the world.
The Vinton Luncheon Lions Club takes on many service projects in the Vinton area each year, many of which benefit youth.
