Three Carpinteria High School students took home the top prizes in the Carpinteria Valley Association’s (CVA) recent essay contest challenging local students to describe how climate change will affect Carpinteria, and what mitigating actions community members should take.
Evelyn Calkins, a senior at Carpinteria High, won the $1,000 first-place prize. Anna Morrison, also a senior, won the second-place prize of $750. Third-place went to freshman Luke Donahue, who received a $500 prize.
The essays address the following question:
Science tells us that burning fossil fuels is causing the world’s climate to warm, with dire consequences globally. How do you think this will affect you and all of us here in the Carpinteria Valley, and what should we do about it?
The contest was open to local high school students.
“I am so excited there are so many engaged students who may well be tomorrow’s leaders. It was an honor to be a judge of their submissions,” said Susan Mailheau, CVA Board member.
Calkins will be attending UC Davis in the fall to study animal science and management with a goal to pursue sustainable agriculture practices.
Morrison, one of the track team captains and a volleyball player at Carpinteria High, said she plans to major in biology, most likely at the University of British Columbia.
Donahue said he spends most of his free time swimming, mountain biking, or surfing around Carpinteria.
CVA chose to hold the essay contest as a wrap-up of its 60th anniversary celebration last year.
“As we celebrate an amazing first 60 years, it is critical that our youth join with us if we are to prevail over climate change — the most existential threat in our lifetime.
“Their outstanding essays prove their commitment,” said Bob Franco, a CVA Board member.
The Carpinteria Valley Association advocates for environmental protection of the valley and preserving the charm of Carpinteria and Summerland as small beach towns.
“CVA continues to focus its actions locally, but resolves they will be taken within an increasingly urgent, global context,” the organization said.
For more, visit http://www.facebook.com/carpinteriavalleyassociation/.