The Camillus Elks Lodge gave the Town of Camillus Historical Society a grant to be used to promote interest in history among students in the Camillus community.

It was decided to sponsor an art competition where high school students from West Genesee Senior High School were challenged to create a work of art such as a drawing, painting or digital image, which embodies the best aspects of the history of the Town of Camillus.

It was decided that an award of $500 would be given to the winning entry.

West Genesee Senior High School art teacher Gigina Long coordinated the students’ artistic efforts.

On Aug. 1, three students submitted artwork and a winner was selected.

The historical society decided that all three entries were outstanding and worthy of recognition.

It was decided that the two honorable mentions would each be awarded $100.

Coralista Ruge and Owen Flanagan were awarded honorable mention and Elle McNamara won first prize.

On Sept. 5, McNamara, who created an image inspired by Camillus Cutlery, received her award from Don Fittipaldi, of the Camillus Elks Lodge and from the board members of the Camillus Historical Society.

Her award-winning painting will be permanently displayed in the Camillus Town Hall at 4600 W. Genesee St.

McNamara graduated with the class of 2023 from West Genesee Senior High School, and she will be attending SUNY ESF majoring in forest ecosystem science.

Rude, who graduated in 2023 was recognized for a painting of Amboy Airport and Flanagan, a sophomore created a digital image of the village of Camillus.