Calling all Vermont high school students!

What is the state of the union?

"State of the Union" Contest Snapshot

WHO: Vermont high school students
WHAT: Short essay contest describing your thoughts on the current condition of the United States. The winner will have their essay published in the Congressional Record and get to invite Senator Sanders to your high school to meet with students and discuss what we can do to create more opportunities for Vermonters and Americans.
WHEN: Essays must be submitted prior to President Obama making his State of the Union Address to Congress in late January. Submit essays to stateoftheunion@sanders.senate.gov. Deadline: Friday, 1/21/10
WHY: You have opinions. You should be heard.
HOW: Think about what how the United States is doing to address the concerns of young people. What should the president define as short-term and long-term goals? Share your thoughts with Bernie in 250 to 500 words. Be sure to include your name, age, school, hometown, e-mail and phone number with your submission.

President Obama will be giving the annual State of the Union Address in late January. The U.S. Constitution calls for the President to "give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient."

Vermonters' views should be heard, as well. Senator Sanders wants Vermont's high school students to share their thoughts on the state of the nation. How are families coping with most severe recession since the Great Depression? How is the United States doing on issues of concern to young people? The President will share his views in a few weeks before a joint session of Congress. What is your view on the current condition of the United States? What should the president define as short-term and long-term goals?

Senator Sanders is sponsoring a contest for the best 250-500 word essay about the State of the Union. A panel of Vermont teachers will review the entries. The best essay will be published in the Congressional Record. The winner will also get to have Senator Sanders visit his or her school to meet with students to discuss the state of the union and what we can do to create more opportunities for Vermonters and Americans.