Hawaii Meth Project on Thursday announced the winners of its "Take a Stand Against Meth" art contest, a statewide initiative designed to leverage the creativity and passion of Hawaii’s young people to communicate the risks associated with methamphetamine use.

First place went to John Cabias, a sophomore at Leilehua High School, for his creation, "Don’t Let Meth Control You," a drawing of a human puppet on strings.

Second place went to Pearl City High School freshman Vincent Bercasio for "Down the Drain," and third place went to Wai­anae High junior Joshua Camalig for "Life or Meth."

Sixty-one teens across the state created and entered paintings, drawings, and photographs, expressing their thoughts about crystal methamphetamine use and discouraging others from trying the drug.

The Hawaii Meth Project is a nonprofit organization that implements large-scale, research-based campaigns and community action programs to reduce methamphetamine use in the state.