With a field of strong competitors reading their original works to a packed house, judges for the annual Bainbridge College Creative Arts Club literary competition presented awards for poetry and for prose.

The judges, Patrick Smith, Tonya Strickland and John Vanzo, selected the winners from among 14 students who competed at the Spring Coffee House and Literary Contest March 12 in the Main Campus Student Center.

The poetry category first place went to John Comerford of Bainbridge for “Acceptance,” his poem about aging. Second place went to Kay Ragan of Blakely for “Ugly,” her humorous poem about a dog. Third place went to Crystal Wood of Donalsonville for “Faint,” about reaction to a loved one’s death.

Judges recognized as Honorable Mention Petrina Newton of Colquitt, who read her fast-paced poem “A True Friend.”

First place in prose went to Jake Tobin of Climax for his untitled short story about a lone pianist. Second place went to Rayna Andrews of Climax for “Letter to One Gone,” her essay about a family member’s leaving home. Third place went to Sharon Williams of Bainbridge for her essay “The Turning Point in My Life,” a dramatic and deeply felt presentation.

Winners received cash awards and certificates. First place in each category was $200, second place $150 and third $100.

“All of the contestants did such a good job,” said Carol Sinclair, who coordinated the competition and the event. “We should be very proud of them and their original works.”

She added her thanks for all who helped make the event possible, including Creative Arts Club co-sponsors Carol Adams, Brenda Akins and Tammy Hinson.

The evening started with light refreshments provided by caterer Laura Darley and students from Learning Support Division classes, and coffee provided by Barnes and Noble Bookstore. Volunteers for the evening included Patti Lord, Student Activities Director David Price and Amy Wells.