Students: Cash Prizes in Billboard Contest

Talented Weston students can send a message about recycling and have a chance to win cash prizes for themselves and for the school.

The Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority’s annual recycling billboard contest is underway. The theme is “Recycle Your Food Scraps! Compost!”

Students in grades K–12 are invited to submit entries. Student prizes range from $25 to $250 and the grand prize winner nets $500 for the student’s classroom or school to support recycling education.

Information about the contest and its rules can be found on the HRRA website. Entry forms are also being distributed by Weston teachers Michael Aikenhead and Kate O’Keefe and are available at the Weston Public Library.

Last year, Weston student Maddie Rapko won the regional competition. In addition to the cash prize, the winner’s artwork is displayed for two months on HART buses throughout the region.

Maddie Rapko’s winning billboard

Reducing food waste

This year’s contest theme is aimed at encouraging the community to compost.

Of all the everyday trash that eventually reaches landfills and incinerators, the single largest material is food. Instead of being waste, it can be a resource, a valuable soil conditioner in everything from home gardens to construction sites.

HRRA’s website has more information about recycling food scraps by composting.

Mr. Aikenhead coordinates the contest in Weston