The purpose of the contest is to build community ties and identify and showcase teenagers and adults with exceptional artistic and literary talent. The 2012 contest yielded over 200 entries, including 103 in the literary categories and 123 in the visual arts categories. 2013 will be the second year for the annual “Carl Junction Literary & Visual Arts Contest”. A Celebration will be held on March 7, 2013 at the Jerry B. Stark Performing Arts Center on the campus of the Carl Junction School District. At that time, we will recognize and award contest winners, thank sponsors, and provide an intermission filled with delightful desserts.