Nearly 150 community members gathered Monday, October 19, at the Goleta Community Center for the first-ever Peace Poster Art Reception, hosted by the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club. The reception showcased 50 posters created by local students ages 11–13 who explored this year’s theme, “Harmony in Humanity,” through art.

A big congratulations to Miela Miller, 13, of Goleta Valley Junior High School, who earned first place and a $100 prize! Her winning poster will advance to the district level of the international competition in November. Best of luck to Miela in the next round!

Certificates of Recognition were handed out to the top three finalists.

Established in 1988, the annual Lions International Peace Poster Contest gives students an opportunity to express their visions of peace through art. Winning entries advance through local, district, multiple district, and international levels, where one grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners are recognized. Goleta students have a history of success in the competition. Last year, Goleta Valley Junior High School student Tobyn Richter advanced to the state level and received an Honorable Mention.

Thank you to the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club who helped organize this inaugural event, and Eddie’s Grill for sponsoring and donating gift certificates for student prizes.

Pictured above: First place winner Miela Miller with members of the Goleta City Council and Lions Club