Senator Kemp Hannon (R-6th S.D.) 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 youngsters to take an interest in their environment and to use their imagination and creativity to identify challenges that face our community and offer their own insights on possible solutions," said Senator Hannon.

"Participating is fun, challenging and a great opportunity for children to learn about ways that they can have an impact on making New York a cleaner, more livable state," said Senator Hannon.

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 Hannon's office at 516-739-1700.

"Our community has always been well-represented in past competitions and I am sure that this year will be no exception," said Senator Hannon. "I look forward to seeing the creative ideas of our young people to address the pressing issues of a cleaner environment."