Calista Godfrey, a student at Fillmore Middle School has taken the first step to becoming an internationally recognized artist by winning the local competition sponsored by the Fillmore Lions Club.

Calista's poster was among more than 170 entries in Fillmore. There are over 375,000 entries submitted world wide in the 23rd annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the contest to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere.

"Peace begins at the roots", Calista said. The poster was selected for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme, "Vision of Peace." The judging was held on November 8 at the Fillmore Middle School.

Mr. Bill Dewey, Lions Club President indicated that he was impressed by the expression and creativity of the student's art. "It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them. I'm proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions."

Miss Godfrey's poster will advance to face stiff competition through the district, multiple district and international rounds of competition if she is to be declared the international grand prize winner," Mr. Dewey said.

One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of US$5,000, plus a trip for the winner and two family members to the awards ceremony at Lions Day with the United Nations. The 23 merit award winners will each receive a certificate and a cash award of US$500.

Runner-up students were Nick Stehly and Suzanne Arana. All participants are students in Mrs. Doris Nichols' art class at Fillmore Middle School. Mrs. Nichols is commended for her assistance in this annual event.