With a theme of peace as their backdrop, these three young artists from El Portal Middle School were winners in the recent local edition of the Lions Club International Peace Poster Contest. Seventh grader Yaneli Cruz, left, was the first place winner and earned a $75 gift certificate to Michaels for her work. Her poster will also move on to the district level. Eighth grader Melissa Mendieta was second, receiving a $50 gift certificate and seventh grader Caroline Tapia, right, third, received a $25 certificate. All three are shown with Lions Club President Kenny Taggart.

Marg Jackson/The Times