WASHINGTON (May 11, 2010)—Congressman Chandler toured Garrard County with local officials this morning to survey the damages caused by the recent flooding in the region. Although the flood water has receded, some areas of Garrard County still remain severely damaged.
“My prayers go out to all of the people still being affected by this historic flooding,” Congressman Chandler said while touring Paint Lick. “This morning, I saw firsthand the challenges Garrard County faces in dealing with the aftermath of these floods. We have far to go in Central Kentucky, but I promise we will do all we can to help.”
Flooding in the region recently caused the annual Congressional Art Competition Reception at Eastern Kentucky University to be canceled. Therefore, before visiting Paint Lick, Congressman Chandler made a stop at Garrard County High School in Lancaster, to honor student artists Valerie Gaylord and Hunter “Kol” Overstreet for their winning entries in the 2010 Congressional Art Competition.
Ms. Gaylord was recognized by Chandler as the Garrard County winner for her piece “Dreams,” and Mr. Overstreet’s collage, “Remember Your Roots,” was declared the district winner in the collage category and received an honorable mention in the Garrard County category.
“These are some very talented Garrard Countians,” Chandler said, “and I am so happy we are finally getting the chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Congratulations Mr. Overstreet and Ms. Gaylord—we are so proud, and I look forward to seeing what you go on to accomplish.”
Both students being honored were presented with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Chandler.
Created in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition where the artwork of high school students is judged at the congressional district level. In addition to an overall district winner, a winner is chosen from each county and in each of seven categories: painting, drawing, collage, print, mixed media, computer generated art, and photography.
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