Four children were recognized Tuesday for their combination of artistic talent and social awareness in the Keep Maricopa Clean drawing contest (see related story) at Ramsey’s American Grill.
Kindergartener Nathan Berquist, fifth grader Dannon Leone Peters, eighth grader Lucas Scott and high school junior Nestor Murray each won a $50 gift certificate to Ramsey’s and will have their art reprinted on aluminum signs to be posted somewhere in the community.
“This is great because it is community-based effort driven by residents,” said Mayor Kelly Anderson. “This helps youth develop leadership and a commitment to community service.”
On hand to present the awards to the four youths were Mayor Kelly Anderson, Vice-Mayor Brent Murphree, and sponsors Pinal Energy, 1st Impressions Ink and Ramsey’s American Grill.
Event sponsor Mark Molus of 1st Impressions Ink said he hopes they will be able to post the signs at Pacana Park.
“We need to get approval from the planning and zoning committee,” he said, “but maybe this will make people think twice about spray painting graffiti at the park.”
It was graffiti in the community that started this effort to raise awareness about vandalism among children.
Contest organizer Ramsey Harkness said kids need to be taught respect in a positive way if they are going to learn.
It’s great to see artwork on the posters rather than the walls,” said Murphree.
He said that this event is in line with what the city’s public safety committee has been looking at to cope with and detour graffiti.
“This is part of that deterrence,” he said, “especially when the kids get involved.”
Organizers said they plan on making this an annual event.
