Seniors Crystal Martin and Johnny Markham Jr. and their dates will enjoy the Vicksburg High School prom in style Saturday.

Martin and Markham, both 18, won the prom safety essay contest sponsored by the Vicksburg Police Department. As first-place winner, Martin gets a police escort to the prom, a ride in a limo, dinner, style advice and gift certificates from area merchants.

As second-place winner, Markham also receives style advice and gift certificates from area restaurants and merchants – but no limo.

“I’m really excited. I hope it’s good weather,” said Martin.

Markham said he, too, was excited.

“But I’d be more excited if Crystal let me share the limo,” he said.

Martin laughed.

The two were presented with their awards Tuesday afternoon at the Vicksburg Police Department in front of city officials, sponsors, parents and teachers.

“I focused on the importance of not using drugs or alcohol, sticking to a decent curfew and good police patrol in my essay,” said Markham.

“I know my date’s mom would want me to bring her home just as how she left, and I don’t want to be a statistic,” he said.

Martin said she focused on the issues that are important to teens – drug and alcohol use, premarital sex and teen pregnancy.

“I think it’s important for the police to perform roadblocks and other safety measures to ensure our night of stars doesn’t become a nightmare for our families and communities,” she said.

“Our parents, teachers, police department and community have to do their part, and now we should reward them by keeping our promises to be safe on prom night,” Martin said.

Lt. Walter Beamon, who spearheaded the contest along with Officer Bobby Jones, said 19 essays were submitted.

Local sponsors included Cellular South, Dillard’s, Garfield’s Restaurant & Pub, George Carr Motors, Griffin Florist, Hair Masters, Helen’s Florist, Wingo’s, Lakeview Funeral Home, Merle Norman, Nappie Roots Beauty Salon, Pemberton Square Mall, Vicksburg Factory Outlets, Shoney’s, Wal-Mart and King of Hearts.