The City of Barrie is launching the I Love Barrie contest, welcoming local students to share their love of the city. The contest is an extension of the Ward 10 contest organized by Councillor Mike McCann in 2017 and 2018. This year, the I Love Barrie campaign has expanded to include all children who attend elementary schools in Barrie.
The contest runs until February 22. It invites youth to learn more about municipal government, inspires them to reflect on what they love about their community and promotes positive engagement with local schools.
"Young eyes often see opportunities and imagine solutions where we adults might not," says Mayor Jeff Lehman. "We look forward to hearing from our youth on why Barrie is a great place to live, work, play and grow through the I Love Barrie contest."
"The love for our city gets amplified when we share why we love our city," says Councillor McCann. "Empowering our youth is a great investment and is a big win for everyone."
Primary (Kindergarten to Grade 3) students are invited to submit art. Junior (Grades 4 to 6) and Intermediate (Grade 7 and 8) students can write a 350-500 word essay. One winner will be chosen from each level: Primary, Junior and Intermediate. Entries must be submitted by an individual, not a class.
This contest is open to all elementary-aged children who attend an English or French public or private school in Barrie, or who reside in Barrie and are home schooled.
The three winners will be announced in early March and the following prizes will be awarded to each winner:
- Tickets for the winner and their immediate family (up to five people) for the March 16 Barrie Colts game
- I Love Barrie prize pack, including an I Love Barrie t-shirt
- Winning artwork and essays will be published on barrie.ca and shared in The Barrie Advance in the City's "This Week in Barrie" feature
Contest artwork and essays can be submitted online at barrie.ca/MyBarrie. Entries can also be submitted in person to Service Barrie (located on the first floor of Barrie City Hall, 70 Collier St.) during regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). All entries must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, February 22.
