Christmas Island Style 2026 Ornament Contest Winners

Christmas Island Style proudly announces the winners of the annual Ornament Contest, a beloved tradition that celebrates creativity and holiday spirit in our community. Each year, seventh and eighth-grade students of Marco Island Charter Middle School,under the direction of art teacher Gigi Garraty, are invited to design artwork for placement on the official Christmas Island Style ornaments. 

This year’s theme, “Bobcat,” inspired students to showcase their artistic talents while utilizing a Christmas atmosphere. Judging took place at the Marco Island Center for the Arts, where Executive Director Hyla Crane graciously hosted the contest, continuing her longstanding support of this festive tradition. 

After careful review, the following students were selected as winners of the 2026 Ornament Contest: 

First Place: Alan Ortiz Sanchez 

Second Place: Christopher Quinton 

Third Place: Emma Pratus 

Honorable Mention (in no order): Merydee Morales Uriostegui, Bronwyn Vozzella, Nicole Saad 

The winning designwill be featured on the 2026 Christmas Island Style ornament, which will be available for sale at various locations around Marco Island next fall. Meanwhile, the 2025 ornament is available for purchase now at several Marco Island retailers. 

Christmas Island Style extends heartfelt congratulations to the winners and gratitude to all participating students, teachers, and families. 

We also sincerely thank the contest judges for their time, dedication, and thoughtful evaluation which make this tradition possible year after year: 

Hyla Crane, Executive Director of the Marco Island Center for the Arts 

Kandy Sweeney, Chief Executive Officer of the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors 

Daniel Zunzunegui, Fire Marshal, Fire-Rescue Department, City of Marco Island 

Ray Leshinger, Code Enforcement Officer, City of Marco Island 

John Wallace, Administrative Captain, Police Department, City of Marco Island 

Wanda Burson, Chairman, Christmas Island Style 

For more information about ornaments and upcoming holiday events, please visit: ChristmasIslandStyle.com.