Students invited to join in environment competition

State Senator George D. Maziarz (62nd District) 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 in Albany on Tuesday, May 10, 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.

"This competition encourages youngsters to take an interest in their environment," said Maziarz. "They must use their imagination and creativity to identify challenges that face our community and offer their own insights on how to solve them."

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 capitol to participate in the competition events.

Schools wishing to participate in this year's event must register by February 18 and entries are due March 25. For registration forms and additional information, schools may contact the senator's office in Albany at 518-455-2024.