PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Governor Gina M. Raimondo today announced 8 year-old Emma Hoag of Newport as the winner of the Rhode Island State Insect Drawing Competition. Emma's drawing of the American burying beetle had the state insect enjoying a frozen lemonade and showed the most creativity by including multiple Rhode Island favorites, such as the state's bird (Rhode Island Red), flower (violet), and motto ("Hope"). The Governor and Emma were joined at Roger Williams Zoo by Senate President Teresa Paiva-Weed and Director of Conservation Programs at Roger Williams Zoo Louis Perrotti.
The Governor also announced four honorable mentions:
• Frankie Kivlehan of Block Island: Best depiction of Rhode Island's beaches
• Niyah Flynn of Providence: Best depiction of summertime activities in Rhode Island
• Julia Connelly of Newport: Best depiction of the American burying beetle
• Lily Neves of Cumberland: Best depiction of the Rhode Island food scene
"Rhode Island has a state insect because third graders from St. Michael's Country Day School took their education beyond the classroom and got involved in the democratic process," said Raimondo. "This drawing competition was inspired by their civic engagement. I am proud of all the participants for showing excellent creativity and imagination."
In July, the Governor held a bill signing ceremony at Roger Williams Park Zoo to mark the passage of legislation naming the American burying beetle Rhode Island's state insect. This bill was introduced at the request of third graders from St. Michael's Country Day School who advocated for naming the American burying beetle the state insect in order to help raise awareness of its need for protection. This legislation was sponsored by Representative Lauren H. Carson and Senator V. Susan Sosnowski and approved by the General Assembly.
The winnings drawings will be on display in the State Room throughout the next month.
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