CALERA – Four Calera students were selected as finalists in the annual McDonald’s Celebration of Creativity Art Contest that showcases students’ depictions of the civil rights movement and the nation’s progression in the years following.

Eighth-grade Calera Middle student Mollie Bentley received an honorable mention in division three for sixth through eighth graders, Tyler Wright placed third for pencil artwork in division four for ninth- through 12^th-graders, Calera High ninth grader Maddie Heller placed third for mixed media artwork in division four and John Wilson received an honorable mention for pencil artwork in division four.

“I think I speak for all of the McDonald’s of Central Alabama owner operators when I say how impressed we are each year by the artistic talent of the students in our community,” said Michael Hill,

McDonald’s of Central Alabama owner operator. “I am so proud of this program and the opportunity it gives to so many students in central Alabama.”

The students submitted their original artwork to compete for cash prizes. The teachers of the first-place winners received a $250 Alabama Art Supply Gift Card. Student divisions are broken down by grade level starting with K5 and going up to 12^th grade. Initial judging was held on Feb. 9, then final judging and the art contest reception took place on Feb. 23 at The Coca Cola Bottling Company.

“The fifth annual art contest reception was a huge success with 27 finalists out of almost 200 entries and over 140 students, teachers, principals, and family members in attendance,” said Tammie Howard, Angels Advertising media director. “We are already thinking about next year and hoping for even more entries!”