AMES, IOWA - The Iowa Department of Transportation's Office of Aviation has announced the state winners of the 2002 International Aviation Art Contest. The winning entries have been forwarded to compete on the national level.

The theme of this year's contest is “Silent Flight,” and the objective of the contest is to help children become more familiar with and participate in aeronautics, engineering and science.

There are three age categories for judging. Following are the winners in each category:

Ages 6-9:
First - Jonathan Church, Cedar Rapids
Second - Kaitlin Church, Cedar Rapids
Third - Rachel Torry, Urbandale

Ages 10-13:
First - Bryan Church, Cedar Rapids
Second – Luke Shaffer, Cambridge
Third – Heather Ross, Stockport

Ages 14-17:
First - Aaron Church, Cedar Rapids
Second – Will Moul, Boone
Third – Kelli Koster, Fonda

The Office of Aviation wishes to thank all those who submitted artwork, and congratulate and wish the winners good luck in the national competition.

Sponsors of the 2002 International Aviation Art Contest are the National Aeronautic Association, National Association of State Aviation Officials, Federal Aviation Administration, and Federation Aeronautique Internationale.