Keiki invited to design voting machine of future

The Hawaii County Elections Division is seeking kids’ art and essays — lots of them.

“We hope to encourage students and educators to learn about and get interested in elections,” said Judy Bennett, temporary elections clerk. Art and essays may be turned into legislative branch offices in Hilo, Waimea, Kona and Pahoa. Essays may also be e-mailed to jbennett@co.hawaii.hi.us.

The art contest is for kids ages 8-10, who are invited to design the voting machine of the future.

“Artwork should be about the voting machine that can be used to cast votes in the election of the future. We are looking for drawings, paintings, sculpture, collage, mixed media, all formats are welcome,” said Bennett. An overall winner will be chosen from all of the entries. Deadline for submission is Monday, Nov. 5, at 4:30 p.m. Winners will be announced on Nov. 11.

The essay contest is for kids ages 11-13. In 800 words or less, each student should use their imagination and write about what they would accomplish if they were a candidate for the Hawaii County Council and elected to a two-year term. An overall winner will be chosen from all of the entries. The same deadline applies.

All submissions must be submitted with the name and age of the participant and the parent/legal guardian’s name, mailing address, electronic mail address and telephone number.

For more information please contact Bennett at the County Elections Division at 961-8277 or by email.