Images of some of the winning artwork were provided by Karen Baymiller

On Thursday, April 27th, Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School (JMIS) presented the winners of its 33rd Annual Creative Arts and Writing Contest. Principal Bruce Burns and Assistant Principal Brad Carn announced the first, second and third place winners, and honorable mentions, in 14 different categories that included poetry, historical fiction, drawing, photography, video, ceramic art and music performance. Sponsored by the JMIS Parent Teacher Association, the Creative Arts and Writing Contest offers the school and the community a way to promote art, music, and creative writing education and appreciation, while recognizing and rewarding students for their efforts and high-quality creative work.

"The atmosphere during the event was intense," said one young writer, who added, "It was a little nerve-wracking, because I was afraid nobody would like my work, but when they called my name I was proud and had no regrets about entering the contest."

The students' work was on display in the JMIS Library for all to see and enjoy. Writing pieces ranged from a whimsical tale of flying chairs to poetic reflections on life and informative non-fiction. Artwork was striking in its diversity of media and concept, from nature photography to highly stylized computer art to graceful sketches and dramatic paintings. The 1st place creations in many categories can be viewed on the PTA's website,

http://www.jmispta.org/index.htm.

L.Borrowman