Nineteen-year-old Hicksville resident Prabel Saxena was recently named one of 10 finalists in the "Stand Up and Holla!" essay contest. Last spring, the 2004 Republican National Convention partnered with MTV to ask young Americans how President Bush's call to service resonates in their lives.

More than 1,000 18-24 year-olds submitted personal essays for the "Stand Up and Holla!" - and 10 finalists were given the chance to share their personal stories with the nation. Saxena is the only finalist from New York. The winner will travel to New York City with delegates and party officials from across the nation to participate in the 2004 Republican National Convention.

The public is being encouraged to vote (at www.2004nycgop.org) on their choice to represent America's youth at the 2004 Republican National Convention. Voting is open through Aug. 9 and your vote will help determine who travels to New York City later this month to watch the action from the floor of Madison Square Garden. The winner will be announced on MTV's Total Request Live on Aug. 16. The 2004 Republican National Convention will begin on Aug. 30.