Four area school children were recently selected as the winners of New Braunfels Utilities (NBU) annual SAFEhaven in Schools “Draw Bucky” contest. The four competed with their peers across the Texas utility's service territory for the chance to win a family membership to the McKenna Children’s Museum and a field trip for their entire class to the museum. This is the 31st anniversary of the program designed to teach children that NBU personnel can help them in an emergency if a parent, police officer or fireman cannot be found.

Entries were available in SAFEhaven coloring books that were passed out during each Chuck & Bucky show this past fall. NBU employee Chuck Reininger has headlined the show for 31 years. Bucky the Bucket Truck (manned by Mike Wiley) is his puppet sidekick who assists with the educational program. As part of the SAFEhaven coloring book contest, children in grades kindergarten through 3rd were asked to draw their own interpretation of Bucky the Bucket Truck.

“Over 4,500 students had the opportunity to enter the contest this year, so when the entries came in, our judges have a very tough time making their decisions,” NBU communications manager Gretchen Reuwer says, adding, "NBU drivers and crews have a direct connection to city police and emergency response teams. It’s sort of like having an extra set of friendly eyes and ears watching out for you. If your kids come home talking about Bucky, it’s a great opportunity for you to discuss safety in your neighborhood, school and home.”