Earlier on Saturday, the Texas Cavaliers and nonprofit public school advocacy groupalso announced winners of their respective annual contests, the Texas Cavaliers River Parade Art Contest for elementary students, and the Go Public High School Art Spotlight.
The Cavaliers awarded Bulverde Creek Elementary fifth grader Fiona O’Dell first place for her vibrant depiction of hot air balloons soaring above a river scene featuring a pink Alamo and a rainbow steam engine. Finalists from elementary schools in each San Antonio City Council district were also chosen.
O’Dell won tickets to the parade, a medal and placement of her artwork on the program of the Texas Cavaliers River parade, along with a ride on a parade float with parade Grand Marshal and Apollo 16 astronaut Charlie Duke. She also won Whataburger for a year, and a one-week scholarship to attend UTSA Southwest’s Summer Art Camp.
Her win also benefits Bulverde Creek Elementary with $5,000 for the school’s art program. Each council district winner receives a week at the UTSA Southwest’s Summer Art Camp and $3,000 for their school’s art program.. Cole High School student Alexa Villanueva took first prize for her painting depicting fellow Cole students gathered in a sunny park. Chloe Sanchez of Harlan High School won second place and Isabella Lorenzana of Madison High School took third place.