Dear Participant,

Thank you for your wonderful contribution to the Thanksgiving Day Creative Celebration. We received outstanding poems, essays, and artwork that exemplify the creativity of New York State’s young people.

The submissions received are remarkable in what they represent – showing gratitude and respect for family, friends, our troops fighting overseas, and many other important subjects and activities. I am humbled and honored to see such inspiring contributions in response to what is a deceptively difficult question: “What are you thankful for?”

On behalf of the New York State Senate, I would like to offer my wholehearted congratulations to all of the participants in this year’s Thanksgiving Day Creative Celebration.

Sincerely,

Senator David J. Valesky

Chittenango Middle School

• Allie Smith

Most Holy Rosary

• Justin Buffum
• Sam Colella
• Michelle Freeman
• Charlotte Hsaio
• Grace King
• Lillian Lesperance
• Ellen McClain
• Ryan Petrie
• Molly Smith
• Andrew Tousley
• Shadavies Williams

Most Holy Rosary School

• Justin Buffum
• Elizabeth Fox
• Catie Keegan
• Grace King
• Heidi Pauta
• Molly Sexton

Nate Perry Elementary

• Mr. Burke's Class Burke

Sherburne-Earlville Elementary School

• Kaitlyn Baxter

Van Duyn Elementary

• Miliyan Bufford
• Amaree Green
• Harmony Hammons
• Mareshah Israel
• Laleska Serrano
• Ha'Najz Starling
• Ta'ron Thomas
• Terrance Williams JR
• Neysa Williams-Brantley