Loralei Smith, a sixth-grader at Delaware’s Willis Intermediate School, has taken the first step to becoming a recognized artist by winning the local competition sponsored by the Delaware Lions Club.
Smith’s poster was among more that 400,000 entries submitted worldwide in the 28th annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest. Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the contest to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere, according to club officials.
“I am just committed to seeing that everyone is treated fairly,” the 11-year-old from Delaware said. The poster was selected by judges at Willis Intermediate for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme “Share Peace.”
Delaware Lions Club President Sheila Milligan said she was impressed by the expression and creativity of the students at Willis Intermediate. “It is obvious that these young people have strong ideas about what peace means to them. I am so proud that we were able to provide them with the opportunity to share their visions.”
“Smith’s poster will advance to face stiff competition through the Lions district, the multiple district level and international rounds of competition if she is to be declared the international grand prize winner,” Milligan said.
One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. 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 will each receive a certificate and a cash award of $500.
“Our club is cheering for Loralei as her poster advances in the competition, and we hope that her vision will ultimately be shared with others around the world,” Milligan said.
Locally, Smith was honored by the Delaware Lions Club at the Nov. 5 meeting at Buehler’s Community Room and received $50 for winning the contest at the local level.
