4TH GRADE BOOK CONTEST RECEPTION

The 2013 Redmond School District 4^th Grade Book Writing Contest concluded Saturday March 9, with a reception at the Redmond Library, which hosted the event. An enthusiastic audience of family, friends, students and teachers attended. Contest coordinator Kai Strand thanked the Library staff and Friends group for organizing such a special gathering. Kai recognized all who participated in the contest, including the Redmond Library, High Desert Society of the Arts (HDSA) and the Redmond Rotary Club, who along with the Guild co-sponsor the annual contest. Kai reported that there were 165 entries in this year’s contest, which after a preliminary judging process were narrowed down to 26 finalists. From those, the panel of judges selected the winner and runner-up. All of the finalists and honorable mentions were honored with a certificate and their books were on display. Certificates were also presented to the teachers whose commitment and dedication help make the contest such a success.

Kai introduced Jessica Simpson of Tom McCall School, whose teacher is Michelle Zistel. Jessica read her story, Cowgirl Love, a tribute to Harley, her favorite horse who Jessica says she especially loves, and how they are learning and growing together.

The first place winner was Shelby McCauley of Central Christian School. Her teacher is Amy Majeski. Shelby read her story A High Buzzing Adventure, the tale of Bee Academy graduate Bella and what happens when she decides to decides to buzz off on her own.

Following their readings, Shelby and Jessica signed copies of their books, which will now be available for checkout at the Redmond Library. The girls will read their stories at an upcoming Redmond Rotary Club luncheon. The Rotary provides the financial support that makes the contest possible. Shelby and Jessica will appear at the Guild’s Thursday April 25^th meeting, where we will all have the opportunity to listen to these excellent young authors! 

Congratulations and thanks to Kai, Tessa Bailey, Mary Krakow, K.C. Snider of HDSA, Julie Bowers and Linda Olson of the Library, and all those whose efforts made this year’s contest so successful. It is one of the Guild’s premiere events, and helps fulfill our mission to support and encourage local authors, beginning with the talented and creative youngsters who consistently enter their wonderful stories in the annual 4^th Grade Book Writing Contest.