Rep. Mike Thompson Holds Reception for Congressional Art Competition Finalists

Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-1) today held a reception at his Napa District Office for the six high school finalists in this year's Congressional Art Competition. The winner of the competition will represent California's 1^st Congressional District in the U.S. Capitol, where his or her artwork will be displayed for one year. The winner and a guest will be flown to Washington, D.C. to attend an awards ceremony in June.

“These six young men and women are extremely talented artists with bright futures,” said Rep. Thompson. “I think it's important to recognize and encourage young artists. The Congressional Art Competition gives our community the opportunity to do that.”

To honor the achievement of this year's finalists, Rep. Thompson invited the students, their families, and local artists and residents to attend a reception at his district office in Napa. The finalists include:

· Mira Weidman from Northcoast Preparatory and Performing Arts Academy in Arcata

· Katelynn Meade-Malley from Lower Lake High School in Lower Lake

· Joshua Lobue from Fort Bragg High School in Fort Bragg

· Nilla Marie Mercado from American Canyon High School in American Canyon

· Erika Quezada from Cloverdale High School in Cloverdale

· Nick Christen from Woodland High School in Woodland

Since 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has given Members of Congress the opportunity to encourage the artistic talents of their young constituents. The annual competition showcases the artistic talents and abilities of students in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories.