Feleti Barstow Public Library to co-sponsor
Peace Poster Contest for fourth year

As they have done in the past three years, the Feleti Barstow Public Library is partnering up with the Lions Club to sponsor the Lions International Peace Poster Contest.

The contest is open to children between 11-13 years old representing local schools, organizations, or sponsored youth groups.

“Lions clubs around the world host the Peace Poster Contest in their community to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people everywhere,” said a statement from the sponsors.

The contest draws more than 350,000 entries every year worldwide, with posters advancing through the district, multiple district, and international levels of competition. To date, more than 3 million children in 75 countries have participated in the contest.

And why shouldn’t they? After all, the grand prize includes a cash award of $2,500 in addition to a trip for the winner and two family members to New York City, NY for the awards ceremony at Lions Day with the United Nations.

Thanks to the competition, the talent of local children has come to light. Take for example Tofi Coffin who, three years ago in 2004 as a Matafao Elementary School student, submitted a winning entry that won the multiple district competition in New Zealand to qualify for the international level competition.

Last year, local youngster Zachary Aaron Faulkner of South Pacific Academy was one of 23 merit award winners who received a certificate and a cash award of $500.

Feleti Barstow Public Library’s Public Services Coordinator Abe King said, “This just goes to show that American Samoa has young artists whose works can compete and win at the international level.”

He added, “We’re inviting all young island artists between the ages of 11-13 to enter the contest.”

The deadline for submissions is Saturday, November 10 at 2 p.m. at the Feleti Barstow Library, with judging scheduled to take place on Monday, November 12.

The name of the winner will be announced the following day on November 13.

More information on the contest can be obtained at the Feleti Barstow Public Library in Utulei.