Mastic Beach, NY - October 2nd, 2013 - Mikayla Mentz, a second grader in Ms. Bonnie Meehan’s class at William Floyd Elementary School, was selected as the Shirley branch winner of the Astoria Federal Savings Bank eighth annual “Teach Children to Save” essay competition. The contest asks children between ages five to 12 to write an essay of 250 words or less completing the statement: “If I save a lot today, in the future I could…”

In her composition, Mikayla wrote about how she would give money to local schools for programs and activities and support sick children by purchasing medicine and toys for them. She won the five- to seven-year old age group. For her efforts, Mikayla received an “Education First” medal, a $25 American Express gift card and a “Teach Children to Save” celebration award certificate. Mikayla’s sister Madison, a fifth grader at William Floyd Elementary, was the local branch winner last year for the eight- to 10-year old age group.

Pictured: Mikayla Mentz, the local winner of the “Teach Children to Save” essay competition, is pictured with Dave Wilson, Astoria Federal Savings Bank Shirley branch manager.