U.S. Representative

U.S. Rep. Dennis Ross (R-Lakeland) was at the ceremony and presented Harvey with the award. During the presentation, Ross stressed that the arts and art programs should not be overlooked as they play an important part in the growth of students.

"It's inspiring to me as a public official when we are starting to set policy for the future generations to know that we have the caliber of youth that are going to lead these generations hereafter, and I think that's evident in the art that you see," Ross said.

Harvey said she was shaking and her legs were locking up after her name was called for Best in Show at Saturday's reception.

"I was so shocked, I was basically freaking out," she said. "I just wanted to crawl and cry for a while because I was freaking out so much; and then when I got up there, I could barely shake hands."

First place was awarded to Ali Blackledge, a senior at Ridge Community, for her "Self Portrait," made with graphic arts. Second place was awarded to Michaela Vaughan, a freshman at Harrison School of the Arts, for her watercolor painting titled "Fall." Third place was awarded to Kaitlyn Strange, a senior at George Jenkins, for her mixed media piece called "Reflection."

Randy Lopez, a sophomore at Harrison School of the Arts, received the Polk Museum of Art Purchase Award and his mixed-media piece, titled "No Parts," will be a permanent addition to the museum's collection. Gabriela Molleda, a senior at Harrison, won the Polk County School Board Purchase Award with her mixed-media piece titled "Focus" that will hang in the school board office.

"I'm glad I didn't have to be the one to pick it because I think they all were best in show," Ross said. "I think they're all exceptional. It's easier to hand out the award than it is to judge the award." (read more)