HAMPDEN – The Maine State Pomological Society has selected the winner of its annual poster contest promoting Maine Apple Sunday. The contest was open to fourth- to sixth-graders throughout the state.

The winning poster was drawn by Samantha “Sami” Bowler of Weatherbee School in Hampden. For her efforts she received a T-shirt with her poster on it, art supplies, and a pizza and apple party for her fifth-grade class.

On May 31 the class helped Sami plant a Yellow Delicious apple tree, bought with the award money, on the school grounds.

Her teacher is David McQuilken, and the poster was entered by her art teacher, Angeli Perrow. Representing the Maine State Pomological Society were Elaine and Emily Olsen, owners of Maine-ly Apples Orchard in Dixmont.

Sami’s illustration will be displayed on posters throughout the state this fall to help promote Maine Apple Sunday, which will be held on Sept. 9.