Three sixth-graders received their first “paychecks” for their writing Saturday.

The Great Falls Writer’s Group 2017 Youth Writing Gala celebrated the winning works of young writers who participated in a creative writing contest with cash prizes.

Natalie Hutchinson won first place for her story poem about a fox and his neighbors. Thomas Buckley earned second place for his “Modern Art Rant” about making sculpture from trash. Connor Oakes received third place for his story “Special Delivery” about someone who was finally given an opportunity to work.

The 50 sixth-graders who participated in the contest represented Great Falls Elementary School, Colvin Run Elementary and Forestville Elementary; several homeschoolers participated as well. Each examined a visual prompt — cardboard boxes of various sizes nested casually inside each other — and wrote whatever the boxes inspired them to write. Grammar, punctuation, and spelling counted.

“I looked from many angles and thought about what the boxes could be instead of what they are,” said Katie Merrill, who thought spilled boxes looked like a dragon's head. “I adapted the prompt so that the dragon’s body was made of cardboard boxes.”

“Each of you has written something uniquely from you,” said guest speaker Sophie Tedesco, a published author who at age 15 is working on a second novel. “Write, and write often — 90 percent of being a good writer is showing up to write.” She encouraged other young writers to finish works they start.

“This was the best tailor-made event for Carly,” said Jon Hill about his daughter’s participation. “She’s constantly writing. She has writing apps on her phone because she’s working on a book.” “Secret of the Depths” is Carly Hill’s work in progress about a girl named Kiera whose father is a fisherman.

Great Falls Library manager Daniela Dixon started as a children’s librarian and can also spot talent and plagiarism. She judged entries with best-selling historical fiction writer L.M. Elliot and George Mason University professor Matt Christovich.

“The library is a community hub. This event is the perfect example of what libraries can be,” said Dixon. “It’s the result of many community connections coming together.”

GFWG hosts the contest and the Friends of the Great Falls Library finances the awards gala. “I have the tough job — handing out prizes and money,” said Michelle Miller, FGFL president said to participants. “We’re paying you for your first work!”

To the volunteers who spent months planning and judging the entries, mother Pisey Frederick is thankful because the contest is a confidence builder. “You made Morgan realize her potential — that she is a strong writer.”

“The contest encouraged me to keep writing,” said Connor Oakes about the contest. “And I’m not alone. Those who also participated share the same passion.”