TWO GREATER HARTFORD CLASSICAL MAGNET FRESHMEN

WIN SPRING GROVE CEMETERY ESSAY SCHOLARSHIPS

 ---NEWS RELEASE---

(June 14, 2007)--- Hartford Mayor Eddie A. Perez is pleased to announce that two Greater Hartford Classical Magnet School freshmen are this year’s winners of the Spring Grove Cemetery Essay Contest called “Talking Stones.”

Christine Guadalupe received the $500 first place prize.  Lorraine Blatt received a $300 honorable mention.  They are both students of Cynthia Avezzie, who was also honored by the Mayor with a special citation, for inspiring the most entries from one class.  Both students told those who gathered at today’s news conference that they learned so much about the City’s rich history by researching and writing about Spring Grove Cemetery.  Ms. Guadalupe added a phrase from her winning theme of how it is important to “listen” to that history.

Mayor Perez says, “I first want to thank the Board of Directors at Spring Grove Cemetery for providing this opportunity to Hartford students.  Every scholarship dollar is an investment in the educational future of our youngsters and this essay contest blends financial opportunity with an extraordinary learning experience about Hartford’s proud history.”

Spring Grove Cemetery started this scholarship contest as a way to support Mayor Perez’s push to increase the number of Hartford students who graduate with a four-year college degree.  Board President Reverend Jeff Powell and Manager Al Lennox spoke about the pride they have in sponsoring this opportunity and how they look forward to the contest growing each and every year.

Last year’s inaugural contest winner Danielle Myers shared a few words on how the honor prepared her for college and opened doors for future opportunities.

Mayor Perez adds to this, “When adults--- the board members, teachers, parents--- when they care, magic happens with our kids.  Today is a testament to that magic.”