Special to The North Jefferson News



Several local students took part this year in the annual Holiday Card Call for Art sponsored by Congressman and Mrs. Spencer Bachus.

The UAB School of Optometry Vision Science Research Center sponsors the Holiday Card Call for Art to provide a creative outlet for talented students with visual impairments.

Amanda “Gracie” Faulkner of Corner Elementary School created a piece of art for the project, along with Manny Awantona and Hope Williams, both of Gardendale High School.

Shy’Ailah Rutledge, a third-grade student at Erwin Elementary School, was selected as the cover artist for the 2007 Holiday Card Call for Art.

In 1993, the Bachuses began using the original art in their holiday card to highlight the accomplishments of local students.

“These students have captured the spirit of the Christmas season by sharing their talents with us. The originality and diversity of their artwork is truly inspiring. It is a privilege to be able to recognize these gifted and loving children,” Bachus said.

In addition to entering the 2007 Holiday Card Call for Art, both Hope and Manny entered the International Helen Keller Art Show. Both students’ artwork from that show will hang in the corporate offices of McGraw Hill in New York City.

McGraw-Hill president Dan Caton saw their work, purchased it, and selected the corporate office as the display location.

Jennifer Johnston teaches both students.