In June the PRIDE Committee in Leon issued an invitation to all non-professional photographers of all ages to submit photographs reflecting Leon today and Leon in bygone days.
Committee members were pleasantly surprised with the amazing response -- approximately 100 photos were submitted.
PRIDE member Debbie Fleming explained that the photos have been on display at the Leon Cafe, “We’re so happy with the wonderful response. There are so many great photographs that it’s been a hard decision naming the winners.”
Area artist Peter Johnson offered to judge the photos in each of the categories.
“It’s a wealth of photos. I’m impressed with everyone’s artistic use of their cameras,” said Johnson.
The following winners were selected.
Landscape and Nature
First place: “Remember When,” a photograph of an old Leon gas station by Charlotte Blake.
Second place: “A Prairie Fire” by David Jesseph.
Third place: “Leon City Park in the Snow,” by Deb Kingsley.
Honorable mention went to 10-year-old Sara Haney, who was the very first photographer to submit a photo in the contest, three photos by David Jesseph.
Animals and Pets
First: “Waiting for Dr. Bigelow” by Judy Sooter.
Second: “Possum Action” by J.C. Boyce.
Third: “Deer” by J.C. Boyce
Honorable mention went to 13-year-old Emmett Boucher for “Hen Party” and “Old Leon Highway” by Lori Carleton.
Old Historical Photos
First: “G.W. Tong at the Skelly Station” by E.A. Tong.
Second: “Two Men in a Model T/1917 “ by David Hildreth.
Third: “Marshall House” by E.A. Tong.
Honorable mention: “Downtown Leon, 1896” by Jan Willis, and “Old Tong Mill” by E.A. Tong.
Happenings
First: “Leon’s Beautiful Children With Beautiful Flowers” by Gladys Wall.
Second: “Raising the Flag” by Judy Sooter.
Third: “Cowboys Branding” by David Jesseph.
Honorable mention: “Celebrate 2007” by Judy Sooter.
Photos on display Sunday
The photos will be on display and the photographers honored this Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Leon Senior Center, 112 S. Main. The Center will be serving Sunday lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the special reception running until 2 p.m. Price for the delicious meal will be $7 for adults. Viewing the photo collection is free. The community is encouraged to attend and take the opportunity to view the wonderful photographs that showcase the Leon community and its citizens.
Prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third place winners by sponsors; The Leon Cafe, The State Bank of Leon, and Heavenly Pizza of Leon.
Community Mural Project
Another community project that already has many Leon residents excited is plans for a colorful mural for the south wall of the old “Shack” building on Main Street. The historic building has housed grocery stores and eating establishments. Max and MarJean Shaffer owned the building for a number of years and sold it to Roger and Jean Pruitt, who after many years sold it to the current owners, Jerry and Sharon Keeler.
“The Keelers are very excited to be a part of this project and to share the building with Leon,” said Fleming.
A call is going out to all local artists and others that would like to become involved with the mural effort.
Fleming advised, “Our school superintendent Randy Rivers is actively involved, as well as high school art teacher Branigun Gomez. His students will present some drawings for the mural on Sunday at the reception,” she continued, “local artists Julie Bowman, Stephanie Walker and others have already agreed to be a part of the project.”
In addition to Fleming, other PRIDE members that are actively taking part in the mural project are Karen Holman, Stephanie Walker, Pastor Darrell Herde of the Leon Christian Church, and Jody Laidler.
“The local fire department has agreed to power wash the mural site for us. We have to get the design ready, find the artists, and hopefully receive enough donations to get started painting next spring. That’s our goal, Fleming stated.
She added, “We envision this community project as something for the next generation -- a historical reflection of our town.”
Anyone wanting to share a donation of time and or talent, can contact any of the Leon PRIDE members or Debbie Fleming at Fleming Feed & Seed Co., 742-3411.
Augusta, Kan. —
