William Annin Student Is Winner Of Reusable Bag Design Challenge

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Anjali Dahiya, a student at William Annin Middle School, was named as the winner of the township's Reusable Bag Design Challenge, the Bernards Township Committee and the Environmental Commission announced Tuesday.

Her design will be featured on re-usable bags that will be distributed to the township residents, free of charge, while supplies last.

"On behalf of Mayor Bianchi and the Township Committee we are pleased to support every green initiative especially one that encourages our children to recycle. Congratulations to Anjali and all of the other contest participants," said Township Administrator Pat Monaco.

Dahiya was among the many Bernards Township school children who submitted designs. Dahiya's design was selected as it incorporates the themes of Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse. It also showcases a tree similar to the great white oak that had long-since stood as a symbol on the community for more than 600 years.

The contest was launched by the township after committee members adopted a resolution on May 14 endorsing the encouragement of the residents to use re-usable shopping bags and reduce the number of single use bags that are currently being used.

"We are excited about this initiative by the Environmental Commission to encourage township residents to use fewer plastic bags to reduce their harmful environmental impacts. I congratulate Anjali on her beautiful winning design and thank all the participants in the design challenge!" said Joan Harris, township committee liaison to the Environmental Commission.

Residents can pick up a tote at the following locations:

• Planning Board Office, Department of Public Works Building, 277 So. Maple Ave.
• Township Clerk, Municipal Building, 1 Collyer Ln.
• Bernards Township Library, 32 So. Maple Ave.
• Health Department, 262 So. Finley Ave.

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