On April 25, 2011, four San Diego Job Corps students assisted Congressman Bob Filner’s staff in the 51st Congressional District’s 19th Annual Arts Competition held at the Bonita Sunnyside Library in Bonita CA. The students, interns in the Congressman’s 51st District Office, greeted guests and helped ensure the event’s success.

An Artistic Discovery: The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and provides an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.  Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nation-wide competition.

Former television anchor and two-time Emmy Award winning San Diego journalist Adriana Alcaraz was the Master of Ceremony for this year’s event.  She welcomed everyone in attendance: students, parents, families, teachers, and friends, and also introduced the sponsors, volunteers, and judges who took part in this year’s competition.

Ms. Alcaraz later introduced Congressman Filner, who expressed his admiration and appreciation for the teachers and administrators who dedicate their lives to helping young people.  He asked them, along with the parents, families and friends, to stand and be recognized for their part in encouraging students to be involved in their school’s arts program, and this year’s art competition.  Congressmen Filner stated that although several students would be receiving prizes for their work, all of the art displayed in the room was outstanding, and a tribute to the talented young artists.

Each student artist was given a Congressional Certificate of Recognition and a photo was taken with Congressman Filner. In addition, the Grand Prize winner and a parent would be attending a national reception in Washington, D.C. this summer, and their artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

“The Job Corps students worked hard to make sure the 51st District Congressional Arts Competition was a huge success for everyone involved,” stated Congressman Filner.  “Whether it was cataloging the artwork as they were submitted or assisting on the day of the event, they really know how to step I and do what’s needed, which is essential to pull of an event like this.  They were tremendous help as they are each week in the office.”