No Slowing Down For Kids Competing in Santa Ana’s Annual Youth Water Poster Contest
Nearly 500 students from 41 schools throughout Santa Ana used their creative talents to compete in the 8th Annual Youth Water Poster Contest. Using the theme “Slow The Flow. Save H2O!”, students were challenged to show how capturing rainwater and slowing down water flow can help protect the environment and our water resources.
This year’s contest, held citywide in partnership with the Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD), saw record-breaking participation and wrapped up in the spring with the selection of twelve winners.
Cesar E. Barrera, Deputy Public Works Director/Water Resources Manager, expressed his gratitude, saying,
“Our annual contest, sponsored by the Public Work’s Water Resources Division, owes its success to the support and participation of the Santa Ana Unified School District. I want to give special recognition to the district, as well as the dedicated teachers and supportive parents who have encouraged student participation year after year.”
The winners were honored at a special Awards Ceremony and Reception Lunch on May 20, 2023, during Santa Ana Public Works Agency’s Family Event. Attended by over 1,500 people, the event featured Mayor Amezcua and Councilmember Phan inviting the twelve talented artists onto the stage to receive their certificates and special medals, while the crowd cheered on and celebrated their achievements.
Grand prize winner Dylann Vasquez receives his trophy and Play Station 5 (PS5) from Santa Ana’s Water Resources Manager Cesar E. Barrera.Following the ceremony, the winners— accompanied by their families and a number of SAUSD teachers and principals—were treated to a special luncheon reception. The young winners were presented with a range of exciting prizes, including gift certificates, Play Station 5s (PS5) and iPads. A special drawing for a $200 gift certificate was held among the teachers who attended the Awards Ceremony and Reception Lunch.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the young participants for their outstanding work and to this year’s esteemed panel of judges for their invaluable support in making this contest a resounding success:
- Tram Le, Arts & Culture Specialist
- Savannah Spicer, Economic Development Specialist
- David Flores, Community Development Analyst