Tangier Smith Elementary School fourth grader Daniel Guaman Macias was recently selected as the first-place winner for students grades 3-5 in the Town of Brookhaven’s second annual “Brookhaven Recycles” Poster Contest! This achievement also resulted in Daniel receiving William Floyd “Artist of the Month” honors from Fine Arts chairperson Theresa Bianco!

Daniel was recognized for his artistic abilities at the November 20 Town of Brookhaven Board Meeting, where he received a framed version of his poster and a certificate of completion from the town. His artwork was also put on display at Brookhaven Town Hall in addition to being included within the Town of Brookhaven’s website, social media and winter edition of the Green Gazette newsletter.

The “Brookhaven Recycles” Poster Contest gives Town of Brookhaven students in grades K-12 the opportunity to create artwork that will help encourage others to reduce, reuse and recycle. Students base their artwork on one of two themes provided to them, with this year’s themes of “Choose to Reuse” and “Recycle Right” providing a specific focus on how society can reuse and recycle properly.

Daniel selected the “Recycle Right” theme in his winning piece, which depicted the Town of Brookhaven recycling mascot, Curby, picking up recyclable litter off the ground. This is the second year a William Floyd student has had their artwork chosen as a winner, as a student from the William Floyd Learning Center was chosen as a second-place winner in the inaugural contest last school year.

“Daniel is a hardworking student who comes to art each week with a smile on his face, ready to get to work,” said Daniel’s art teacher Sandra Bretton. “His enthusiasm for art is evident by the creativity he displays in his artwork; he is not afraid to take risks and add a little something extra to whatever the assignment may be.” Mrs. Bretton and the Tangier Smith Elementary School community are very proud of Daniel’s achievements and look forward to what is yet to come!  

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico congratulated Daniel and all the winners from across the town. “These young artists used their creativity to highlight ‘Choose to Reuse’ and ‘Recycle Right,’ inspiring our community to protect the planet. The bright minds of this generation are the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.”

Congratulations, Daniel!