Santa Claus with a San Antonio flair and Texas themed ornaments hanging from his fingertips is the depiction that will grace the cover of the City’s Official Christmas card this holiday season. Eleven-year-old Christin Engelberth of Harris Middle School has captured first prize in the Parks and Recreation Department’s 2008 “Christmas in San Antonio” Student Art Contest and her artwork will serve as the City’s official Christmas card. Mayor Phil Hardberger will participate in the awards ceremony announcing the winners at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov.20, in the City Council Chamber located in the Municipal Plaza building at 114 W. Commerce.

“The annual Parks and Recreation art contest gives our youth an opportunity to express their talent while also receiving citywide recognition,” said Mona Lisa Montgomery, Special Programs Supervisor. “Each year hundreds of students from around the City submit extremely colorful and creative entries so the judges always have a tough time selecting the winners.”

As the overall winner, Engelberth will receive $150. First, second and third place winners, selected in elementary, middle and high school categories, will receive plaques and cash awards. Honorable mention designates will receive certificates.

Julia Rodriguez, 10, of Elrod Elementary took first place in the elementary school category. Amy Mireles, 12, of San Antonio Christian Schools won in the Middle School category and Edwin Calderon, age 14, of Madison High School won first place in the high school category.

Winning entries will be displayed at the San Antonio Children’s Museum, 305 E. Houston St., during the month of December.

Christmas in San Antonio cards can be ordered by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 207-3000. The cards will also be available in November at all four City of San Antonio Community Link Service Centers and at the Ron Darner Parks and Recreation Operations Headquarters, 5800 Old Hwy. 90 W. The cost is $7 for a packet of 10.

Comments can be sent to kirvin@sanantonio.gov.