Local students from Carl Sandburg Middle School in Alexandria were recently recognized at a reception at Reagan National Airport honor for their achievements in an artwork competition that was sponsored by the Airport to promote energy conservation at its facilities.

"The Airports Authority greatly values its enduring relationship with the Carl Sandburg Middle School, and is extremely pleased that these exceptionally gifted students could help us promote heightened energy conservation awareness," said Christopher U. Browne, Reagan National Airport Manager. "This artwork competition truly represents the kind of "win-win" opportunity that serves to benefit our customers and everyone involved. We are grateful for the opportunity to showcase the impressive artwork of our Carl Sandburg student partners."

As part of the Metropolitan Washington's Airports Authority's ongoing program to reduce energy consumption at its facilities and its partnership program with the Fairfax County, 8th Grade art class students were asked to submit artwork that the Airport would utilize to create energy conservation awareness posters for display throughout the Airport.

More than 100 students participated in the contest under the supervision of Sandburg School art teachers Sandra Sorenson and Sheila Ambrogne. Thirty-three students were selected by the art teachers as the contest semi-finalists.

Julian Barber of Alexandria received first place, while Alexa M. Silverman and Ryan E. Hill, also both of Alexandria were awarded second and third place honors, respectively.

Each of the three finalists received U.S. Savings Bonds and all participants were awarded certificates to recognize their accomplishments.

The artwork of the finalists has been made into three different posters, which will be distributed throughout the Airport. In addition, the artwork of all 33 semi-finalists is currently on exhibit in Terminal A.

First place winner, student Julian Barber (left) being recognized by Christopher U. Browne, Manager, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (right) for his artwork.

Reagan National Airport honored Carl Sandburg Art Contest Finalists and school officials. Pictured: (L-R): Carl Sandburg Principal Donna Pasteur, Art Teacher Sandra Sorenson, Ryan E. Hill, Alexa M. Silverman, Art TeacherSheila Ambrogne and Julian Barber.