In a vibrant celebration of creativity and community, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, alongside state legislators, honored the winners of the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book Student Essay and Cover Photo Contests at the Oregon State Capitol.
This annual event not only highlights local talent but also fosters a deeper connection to Oregon’s rich history and natural beauty.
Honoring Young Talent
The event was a testament to the creative spirit of young Oregonians. Contest winner Luna Chatila, a seventh grader from Sherwood Middle School, captivated attendees with her heartfelt essay about her connection to Oregon’s landscapes.
Her story of moving from Lebanon during turbulent times added a poignant layer to the celebration.
Secretary Read expressed his pride in these young contributors, stating,
“Our Blue Book is an excellent showcase of what makes our state so special.”
The winners were warmly received in both the House and Senate chambers, where they were recognized for their contributions.
The Winners
2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest winners are Matt Straite (front cover) from Keizer and Nathan Rohde (back cover) from Shady Cove.
2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book Student Essay Contest winners:
- Alex Biegel, 7th Grade, Riverdale School in Portland;
- Luna Chatila, 7th Grade, Sherwood Middle School in Sherwood;
- Trinity Jameson, 4th Grade, Lake Oswego Learning Center;
- Claire Lee, 3rd Grade, Catlin Gabel, Portland;
- Guled Olol, 4th Grade, McKay Elementary, Beaverton;
- Nayarrah Paz Sosa, 8th Grade, Estacada Middle School, Estacada;
- Azara Willits, 8th Grade, Thurston Middle School, Springfield.
What This Means for Salem Residents
- The event underscores the importance of nurturing local youth creativity.
- Residents can take pride in their community’s representation in the Oregon Blue Book.
- The celebration strengthens community ties by highlighting shared cultural values.
- It offers an opportunity for residents to engage with state history through a cherished tradition.
A Boost for Local Businesses
The festivities also provided an economic boost. The Oregon Blue Book Capitol Gift Shop saw increased activity as patrons purchased copies signed by contest winners.
Such events draw attention to local businesses involved in retail and tourism, showcasing Oregon’s unique offerings.
Continuing Tradition
This event continues a tradition dating back to 1911 when the first Oregon Blue Book was published.
The biennial contests have become integral in engaging community members, particularly youth, in celebrating Oregon’s identity and natural beauty.
To Sum Up
This year’s celebration at the Capitol not only highlighted individual achievements but also reinforced community bonds through shared appreciation for creativity and heritage.
As these young talents continue their journeys, they carry forward stories that enrich our understanding of what it means to be part of this vibrant state.
Sources: Oregon Secretary of State.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
