Ocala Lions honor local peace poster-makers

Ocala Lions Club Contest Chairwoman Marilyn Hinds talks about one of the posters entered in the contest. [Courtesy of Ocala Lions Club]

The Ocala Lions Club on Nov. 5 presented prizes to Lake Weir Middle School students who participated in the club’s annual International Peace Poster contest.

Sofia Cruz was awarded first prize for her artwork representing this year’s theme, “Peace Through Service.”

Her poster has advanced to the district level of judging, where it will compete against winners from other areas clubs.

The second place winner was Luciano Vargas, and the third place winner as Raeienan Bell.

The Peace Poster contest began over 30 years ago to give students ages 11 to 13 the opportunity to express their visions of peace through the creative process.

Guided by art teacher Lisa Russo, the Lake Weir Middle School students created posters that were judged by members of the Ocala Lion’s Club. Local winners can move on to the district competitions, multiple district competitions and, finally, an international competition.

The grand prize winner can potentially win $5,000. In the process, students can learn more about Lion’s Clubs and their work for the blind.

The Ocala Lion’s Club currently has about 100 members. The group meets at noon every Thursday at the Ocala Municipal Golf Course. The group has lunch before each meeting, which features an interesting guest speaker.

To learn more about the club, contact audhall033@gmail.com, call (352) 854-6715, or visit OcalaLionsClub.org.

Marilyn Hinds served as chairwoman for the Ocala Lion’s Club Peace Poster contest.

Pictured is the winning poster created by Sofia Cruz for the Lion’s Club Peace Through Service Poster Contest. Cruz is a student at Lake Weir Middle School. [Courtesy of Ocala Lions Club]