It was a celebration of children as many were mourning the loss of innocence in Littleton. At the POB Public Library recently, elected officials and distinguished guests extolled the virtues of community and, especially, of the young people who had come to be honored.

The occasion was the First Annual POBJFK High School Photography Competition and Awards Presentation sponsored by the Friends of the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library. Community dignitaries, Friends of the Library, staff, parents and children gathered in the library's meeting rooms to view the photographs of "Our Town" as seen through the eyes of these talented high school photography students, an exhibition inspired by Tim Sanchez, district schools art chairperson.

Festivities got off to a gala start with a stirring performance of pianist Christine Lee, a Mattlin Middle School 7th Grader and preparatory student at the Juilliard School of Music. Friends co-chairperson Anna Goidell then introduced Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto, Legislator Judy Jacobs, Assemblymen Marc Herbst and David Sidikman and School Superintendent Anthony Cavanna, all of whom spoke glowingly about the community and the commitment of the young contestants. "We have some treasures here in Plainview," Cavanna said. "These treasures are our children." Other participants included Library Board member Eugene Goidell, Director Rhoda Orenstein, School Board members Cathy Schapp and Lisa LeBlanc, and Ginger Lieberman of the Civic Association.

Winners, who received certificates and handsome books about photography, were chosen by a panel of three judges: Bernie Halpern Cutler, Rick Miller and Kim Newborn -- all professional photographers and alumni of Plainview schools or former residents. Announcing winners' names, Friends member Janie Stockhamer said, "We honor you for your hard work, keen eye and creative spirit."

Winners are:

1st Place: Lauren Carbone

2nd Place: Karne Kuhne

3rd Place: Billy Candela

Adam Kroot

Jodi Oland

Erik Rivera

Jill Varricchio

1st Place: Ilana Grossman

2nd Place: Jennifer Cooper

3rd Place: Bianca Campo

Tali Aronowitz

Jen Coelho

Elissa Janofsky

Vanessa Petralia

"Our Town" cam be seen through Thurs. May 27 at the Plainview Library. It's free and open to the public. For information call 938-0077.