AMITYVILLE, NY — An Amityville law firm is encouraging local students to honor military veterans through creativity with a Veterans Day art contest offering prizes of up to $250.
The Law Office of Alena Shautsova, located at 159 Broadway in Amityville, is sponsoring the competition for students at St. Rose of Lima School in Massapequa.
The contest begins Oct. 13, and runs through Oct. 30. Students in all grades are invited to submit original artwork inspired by Veterans Day, highlighting themes of patriotism, freedom, service, sacrifice and gratitude.
Students can create pieces featuring American flags, patriotic symbols, military families, veterans or personal messages thanking those who have served.
Ten students will receive prizes, including a $250 grand prize. Second- and third-place winners will each receive $100, while students finishing fourth through 10th will receive $50 each.
St. Rose of Lima School will oversee the judging and selection of winners. An awards ceremony will be held at the school in honor of Veterans Day.
Winning and selected artwork will also be displayed at the Law Office of Alena Shautsova, including potentially in its office windows, subject to village requirements. Artwork may also be featured on the firm's social media pages with appropriate parental or guardian permission.
Shautsova said she was inspired to launch the initiative after noticing a lack of similar opportunities for children in her community.
She previously participated in comparable projects through a bar association initiative but wanted to bring the experience closer to home after moving to Copiague.
"Since my children attend St. Rose of Lima School, I decided to launch this initiative there," Shautsova said. "I hope it will become a meaningful tradition that brings our community together and inspires children to learn more about the sacrifices made by our veterans."
A parent or guardian consent form must accompany contest materials. Student names, photographs or other identifying information will require appropriate permission.
The deadline to submit artwork is Oct. 30.
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