Law firm hosts ‘These Colors Don’t Run’ art contest awards at Stony Brook veterans facility

Long Island-based elder law and estate planning firm Cona Elder Law hosted its 16th annual “These Colors Don’t Run” art contest awards ceremony at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook on Saturday, Nov 15.

The awards recognize artwork created by local elementary, middle, and high school students emphasizing the sacrifices and dedication of veterans.

Hundreds of students from across Long Island submitted drawings and artwork depicting what veterans mean to them and honoring their military service over the last 100 years.

“I think that the veterans have done so much for us and I wanted to do something for them,” said Maya, a fourth grader from Half Hollow School District and winner of an award for her piece, ‘Gratitude Sunflower’. “It doesn’t hurt to give them a thank you.”

Also receiving awards were Abigail D. of Smithtown Central School District for her piece titled ‘Flag with Poppy Flowers’, and Rachel Z. from Three Village Central School District for her work, titled ‘Soldier in Sharpie’.

“Students may not get enough of a real understanding of what veterans should mean to them, and this is a way to add a little extra,” said Melissa Negrin-Wiener, senior partner at Cona Elder Law and the organizer of the contest for the last 16 years. The event, which concluded a week of Veterans Day observances at the Long Island State Veterans Home, also included a musical performance of patriotic and holiday tunes.

“I get phone calls from teachers by mid-September asking if we’re going to do the contest again,” said Negrin-Wiener. “They’re looking for it, and that means it really means something to them.”