Local Middle School Students to Compete for Title “State Senator for a Day”

Brooklyn- State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C, 22nd District) today is announcing that 30 finalists have been selected in his 9th Annual “State Senator For A Day” essay contest.

This contest invited local school children of District 20, District 21 and District 22 to write essays no more than 250-words which began with the phrase, “If I were a State Senator for A Day...”.

Throughout the essay, the students write about issues facing the community such as public safety, park improvements, concerns facing our schools and libraries, and traffic safety issues.

The winning essays were judged on content and creativity. A contest ceremony, where the finalists will read and present their essays before a panel of judges, has been scheduled for

Wednesday, May 18, 2011, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Public School 204 located at 8101-15th Avenue in Brooklyn.

"The contest has always served as a valuable educational learning tool for both myself and the school children of our community," said Senator Marty Golden, "The children address areas of concern in their essays that are truly reflective of the needs of this neighborhood. At times, I have taken their suggestions and work towards them in my capacity as a representative, such as the restoration of our parks, removing graffiti and increasing police patrol on our streets.”

Senator Golden continued, “As always, it is a most difficult decision to select the finalists because our students are well educated and understand the issues facing our community. I look forward to being present when the students showcase their ideas before a panel of judges. That night, we will know who the winner is and who will join me in Albany, to serve as State Senator for a Day, this Spring.”

The winner of the contest, based on performance, thoughts and presentation, and their class will be invited to Albany to see the legislative process in action.