Expanding the program after its initial success last year (covering the 2006-2007 academic year), the 2008 “What’s Bugging You?” program now has an additional Visual Category for entries, and has increased its reach to high school seniors in 22 Florida counties. The awards have also improved. Middleton will award six, $2,000 Achievement Awards to six overall winners—three from the Written Category and three from the Visual Category, as well as 22 $500 Achievement Awards to one winner from each of the 22 participating counties within Middleton’s service territory. The awards will go toward the winners’ college expenses including, but not limited to, tuition, housing and books.
“As Middleton continues to expand statewide, we continue to support the local communities we service. The ‘What’s Bugging You?’ Youth Achievement Award program is a way for us to tap into and understand the perspective of today’s youth on issues they consider relevant. Gathering this information is invaluable because it provides insight into the minds of the leaders of tomorrow,” said John Hayes, chief executive officer of Middleton Lawn & Pest Control. “The first year of the program was a great success, and we look forward to seeing more of what is bugging Florida’s youth this year.”
A team of judges consisting of Middleton management, business professionals, dedicated Florida educators and art/design professionals will determine winners based on their originality and how well they answer the question “What’s Bugging You?” through their written or artistic composition. The students’ personal achievements will also be considered during judging.
“Middleton created this program to give a voice to all high school seniors, including those who excel academically, have unique personal achievements, and are talented in the visual arts. The program extends the opportunity for expression to students who feel comfortable writing an essay or creating a piece of art that clearly articulates and captures their topic of concern,” said Jacqueline Rivera, Middleton Lawn & Pest Control’s director of marketing. “We want to capture, learn and share those refreshing ideas and insights today’s youth has to offer, while also contributing to their college education.”
The award competition is open to high school seniors in the following Florida counties: Alachua; Brevard; Broward; Collier; Duval; Flagler; Hernando; Hillsborough; Indian River; Lake; Marion; Martin; Orange; Osceola; Palm Beach; Pasco; Pinellas; Polk; Sarasota; Seminole; St. Johns; Volusia. All entries must be postmarked by Feb. 29, 2008. Winners will be announced in April 2008.
Interested students can visit www.middletonpest.com for complete program rules and entry details and to download an application. Students can also check out the Middleton Frog’s MySpace page at www.myspace.com/middletonfrog where they can post comments about what bugs them.