Senator Flanagan Invites Students To Join In Environment Competition

Senator John J. Flanagan (R,C-East Northport) today called for local student entries for the 14th annual "I*MA*GREEN*NATION" Celebration, a statewide competition that encourages student awareness of environmental issues.

The Senate-sponsored competition is open to students in Grades One through Eight, and includes an awards presentation at the state Capitol in Albany on Tuesday, May 10, 2005, where winners will receive award medals, view submissions by their fellow students from around the state and have the opportunity to tour the seat of state government.

Last year, more than 500 projects were submitted that explored issues relating to solid waste and recycling, and more than 1,000 students and their teachers traveled to the capital to participate in the competition events.

"I*MA*GREEN*NATION’ encourages students to take an interest in their environment and to use their imagination and creativity to identify possible solutions to environmental challenges that face our community," said Senator Flanagan.

"This competition is a great opportunity for children to participate in a fun and challenging competition while learning about ways that they can have an impact on making New York a cleaner, more livable state," said Senator Flanagan.

Schools wishing to participate in this year’s event must register by Feb. 18 and the entry deadline is March 25, 2005.

For registration forms and additional information, schools may contact Senator Flanagan’s office at 631-361-2154.

"I look forward to seeing the creative ideas the students in our community have for creating a cleaner environment," concluded Senator Flanagan.