Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) celebrated local student creativity and environmental awareness through his third annual Earth Day Poster Contest, held in partnership with the Putnam County Youth Bureau and the Putnam Arts Council.

This annual contest encourages students across Putnam County to express their commitment to environmental stewardship through original artwork. The Putnam County Youth Bureau coordinated student participation, while the Putnam Arts Council judged the entries.

Tied for First Place
Klara Stasiak – Mahopac School District
Ashley Sousa – Haldane School District

Second Place
Arianna Soares – Mahopac School District

Third Place
Benjamin Santizo

Honorable Mentions
Soraia Vieira – Mahopac
Eleona Abazi – Mahopac Elementary School
Viviana Tufano – Mahopac

“I’m incredibly grateful to the Putnam County Youth Bureau and the Putnam Arts Council for partnering with us again on this event,” said Assemblyman Slater. “Each year, this contest gives students a creative outlet to express their care for the environment. The talent and imagination on display were very impressive from young artists who may one day be leading the charge in sustainability.”

Putnam Arts Council Executive Director Joyce Picone said, “Assemblyman Slater’s Earth Day Poster Contest received tons of wonderful artwork from children throughout the area. Each entry was creative and unique, and we here at the Putnam Arts Council are proud to partner with Assemblyman Slater and the Putnam County Youth Bureau to encourage creative expression.”

“Congratulations to all the Earth Day poster contest winners and the how much fun the participants had making the posters while learning about the important message of saving our planet,” said Janeen Cunningham, director of the Putnam County Youth Bureau.

“The creativity and passion displayed by our young residents in this year’s Earth Day Poster Contest are truly inspiring,” said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. “These thoughtful submissions not only highlight the importance of environmental stewardship but also reflect the deep care our youth have for the future of our planet. I commend all the participants for their outstanding work and thank the Putnam Arts Council and our community partners for fostering such meaningful engagement.”