Whiz Kids: Katie and Henry Votel

Oakdale Patch Whiz Kids: Siblings Katie Votel, 7, and Henry Votel, 9

School: Transfiguration Catholic School

Accomplishment: Katie and Henry took home top ribbons from the State Fair for writing and art projects. Katie took home first place for a short story she wrote and Henry received third place for his poem book and paintings. Both submitted their work to the Education Division Individual Exhibits. 

Key to Awesomeness: Second-grader Katie Votel and fourth-grader Henry Votel both have quite the imaginations.

As part of a school project, Katie wrote a short story called "Don't Eat That." The story is about a boy who continually tries to eat certain items that he's not supposed to eat. For instance, he mistakes grass for lettuce, but his mother tells him, "Don't eat that." Katie wrote the short story and drew the pictures to illustrate the book.

"I was really excited because I thought I wouldn't win," Katie said. "I want to do it again."

Her older brother, Henry, also submitted his own projects in the competition. Henry created a poem book comprised of his own poems as well as other writers' poems. He also drew illustrations in the book. Henry also submitted two paintings (both received third place) and a giant picture board, which received honorable mention.

"My poetry book is my favorite because I enjoy writing a lot and there are a lot of colors in it," Henry said.  

Oakdale Patch seeks suggestions from readers for individual  kids, youth groups, teens and even sports teams that wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about these amazing children and teens and select one to be an Oakdale Patch Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to hannah.gruber@patch.com. Be sure to include all of the following information: nominator's name, nominator's e-mail, Whiz Kid's name, Whiz Kid's age, Whiz Kid's school, Whiz Kid's accomplishment, Whiz Kid's key to awesomeness (what made him/her successful?)

If your nominee is selected, we'll contact you and assign a photographer to take a photo. For questions, e-mail hannah.gruber@patch.com.

Sign up for Oakdale Patch's free e-newsletter | Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter