OAKHURST – There were lots of smiles and hugs all around as winners of the Smokey Bear Coloring Contest gathered to collect their prizes and pose for a photo with the famous forest denizen himself.
Over 40 kids from age 4 to 12, brought their artistic talents to “bear” during the 21st annual competition, co-sponsored by Sierra Tel and Cal Fire to raise awareness about fire safety.
All contestants must be residents of Eastern Madera or Mariposa counties, and entries were judged by local community members. The winners received cash prizes and other gifts during a special awards ceremony at Sierra Tel on Thursday, Aug. 15.
Smokey Bear was the honored guest, reminding kids that “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires,” and dancing along as everyone was led in the singing of his official song.
Cal Fire officials and firefighters were on hand to congratulate the kids, and Smokey mugged for the camera and gave hugs and high-fives.
Cal Fire Prevention Specialist Karen Guillemin handed out prizes to the talented winners, including cash awards from Sierra Tel, and backpacks, certificates and other gifts provided by Cal Fire.
Then came perhaps the most fun of the day – everyone gathered in the parking lot where kids got to check out the big red engines close-up, and have firefighters show them how to work the nozzle on the fire hose.
It was a great way to end the festivities, and the perfect activity on a warm summer day.
Here is a list of this year’s winners:
OAKHURST –
Oakhurst ages 4-6
1 – Jubilee Becker, 5
2 – Ivy Popowski, 6
3 – Lilly Shaw, 6
4 – Keira Lassen, 6
Oakhurst ages 7-9
1 – Allison Seiling, 9
2 – Teagan Niewohner, 7
3 – Pria Popowski, 8
4 – Amy Shaw, 8
Oakhurst ages 10-12
1 – Keylee Andersen, 11
2 – Julia Telian, 10
3 – Elley Anna Shaw, 10
4 – Justus Shaw, 12
Mariposa –
Mariposa ages 4-6
1 – Lonnie Cogdell, 6
2 – Cali Delgrego, 6
3 – Shylah Jostin, 4
4 – Mikayla Seymour, 4
Mariposa ages 7-9
1 – Elona Brocchini, 8
2 – Troy Burgoyne, 9
3 – Megan Harris, 8
Mariposa ages 10-12
1 – Acacia Partida, 10
2 – Emilee Cordero, 10
3 – Pavel Breish, 11
4 – Gavin Wolk, 10
