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January 23, 2006
NAPERVILLE — With a deadline of less than a month away, Nicor is encouraging schools, teachers and students to participate in Energy by Design, a visual arts contest launched last fall. The contest is designed to bring students, teachers and families together to become more aware of how to use energy efficiently and the effects of conservation on the environment. The closing date for entries is February 8, 2006.
Nicor, in partnership with the National Energy Foundation (NEF), which provides curriculum, training and materials that promote a better understanding of energy, natural resources, and the environment, developed this innovative contest. “Nicor is committed to working with the communities we serve and continuing to look for ways to educate consumers about energy efficiency. This contest will help motivate and challenge students to learn more about the importance of saving energy and how they can help reduce energy costs both at home and school,” said Margi Schiemann, director of community relations for Nicor Gas.
Energy by Design, administered by teachers who sign-up, challenges young students to create a poster that teaches others how to be energy efficient. The contest materials encourage students to think about how they use energy and what they can do to promote energy efficiency. “Being able to teach a concept is learning at the highest level. This contest is an extension of Nicor’s long-standing energy educational materials program, which benefits hundreds of classrooms annually,” said Schiemann.
Students ranging from Kindergarten through grade 8 in Nicor’s service area are eligible to participate. Prizes include energy home makeovers valued at $3,000, savings bonds and other prizes. Postcards promoting the contest were mailed to teachers within Nicor’s service territory and contest information is also available on line at EnergybyDesign.org.
A panel of independent judges will choose winners in three grade categories: K-2, 3-5 and 6-8, as well as a category for teachers.
First place winners in each category will receive:
- A Nicor Energy Home Makeover (up to a $3,000 value)
- $500 savings bonds
- Pizza party for their classroom
- Prize pack filled with fun, age appropriate prizes.
- Congratulatory plaque (to be displayed within their school)
The top three finalists in each category will win:
- $250 savings bond
- Prize pack filled with fun, age appropriate prizes.
- Congratulatory plaque (to be displayed within their school)
Teachers whose students participate in the contest can win a $1,000 classroom grant. Contest winners will be announced in April.
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Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) is a holding company and is a member of the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index. Its principal businesses are Nicor Gas, one of the nation’s largest natural gas distribution companies, and Tropical Shipping, a containerized shipping business serving the Caribbean region and the Bahamas. Nicor also owns and has an equity interest in several energy-related businesses. For more information, visit the Nicor Web site at www.nicor.com.
Nicor Gas is one of the largest gas distribution companies in the nation, and has provided safe, reliable and cost-effective natural gas service for nearly 50 years. Nicor serves more than two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of Northern Illinois, excluding the City of Chicago. For more information on Nicor Gas, visit www.nicorgas.com. | 
