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Rosas asks eighth graders to tell him ‘If I were Mayor, I would …’

Submitted Photo The second annual essay contest for eighth graders in the city of Dunkirk is underway.

“Our children are our future, and the up and coming leaders of this city.” Mayor Rosas said. On Tuesday, Feb. 13, Mayor Rosas spoke to the eighth graders at the Dunkirk Middle School about some of the responsibilities of being mayor. “I want you to let me know what you think and what concerns you might have about the city and how it is governed.” He said. “In conjunction with the New York Conference of Mayors, we are embarking on our second annual essay contest in the city of Dunkirk. This is your opportunity to get your voice heard, and to tell me what you would do if you were mayor.”

The contest rules were handed out to each of the participating students. Students are asked to write an essay of 300-500 words beginning with “If I Were Mayor, I would …” they are asked to write about what they would do, how and why it would benefit the city and its residents.

Each student who submits an essay will receive recognition at the first council meeting in May, and the winner of the contest will be sworn in as “Mayor for the Day” and accompany Mayor Rosas as he conducts the business of city Hall. Second and third place winners will be sworn in as honorary council members and sit with the City Council, hear, respond to and vote on the agenda items for the meeting.

“Last year was our first year in participating in this event.” Mayor Rosas said. “The many comments we received from the students who participated were well thought out, and the selection process was not an easy one. Many of the comments included additional activities for the youth of our city, and we took those to heart. We have made significant changes in the way our youth activities through the recreation department are designed and scheduled; once again considering that the youth of today is deserving of our commitment to excellence in every walk of life within our city.”

Mayor Rosas said, “This year’s essay contest is something that I look forward to, and I am hopeful that once again we will have meaningful suggestions from our 8th graders that we can incorporate into the city’s long term goals.”

Essays are due to be sent to the city by March 12th. And should be addressed to Vicki Westling, 342 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, New York 14048, or email vwestling@cityofdunkirk.com.

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