WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) congratulated Eden Pethel, an 8th grader from Pendergrass, Georgia, on being selected as a winner of the Bookmark Design Challenge: Celebrating America's 250th, a nationwide competition organized by Second Lady Usha Vance in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. Eden also designed the winning submission in the Georgia Department of Education’s America 250 license plate contest.
“Eden Pethel is proof that Northeast Georgia continues to boast some of the most talented and patriotic young Americans,” said Clyde. “Winning both a state and a nationwide competition for America 250 designs is a remarkable achievement, one that is a testament to Eden’s creativity, artistic skills, and love of country. As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, there is no better reminder of the bright future ahead than the next generation of Americans expressing their patriotism through art. Congratulations, Eden — the entire Ninth District is incredibly proud of you!”
Eden’s Winning Submission for the Bookmark Design Challenge:
Celebrating America’s 250th | Grade 6-8 Category
Eden’s Winning Submission for Georgia’s
USA Semiquincentennial/America 250 License Plate
Background
The Bookmark Design Challenge invited students in grades K-8 from across the nation to create hand-drawn bookmarks reflecting what America means to them, exploring themes such as “American history and traditions, symbols of unity and democracy, community, and hopes for the nation’s future.” Students submitted their bookmark designs in three categories by grade level: K-2, 3-5, and 6-8.
The winning designs were announced by Second Lady Usha Vance and recognized at a special event at the Great American State Fair, which is currently taking place on the National Mall through July 10th.
Additionally, Georgia’s America 250 plate was developed to honor this historic national milestone. Middle school students were invited to create designs as part of a statewide civics education initiative undertaken in partnership with the Georgia Department of Education. The program was supported by the Georgia Commission on Civics Education, the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement, the Georgia Historical Society, and other civic and historical organizations.
