ELYRIA — At Thursday’s Lorain County Commissioners meeting, three young artists took center stage — and the community’s heart — as they were recognized for their winning entries in the Keep Lorain County Beautiful Billboard Design Contest.
Sixth grader Madeline Parobek of St. Jude School, fifth grader Sadie Ballinger of Oberlin Elementary, and second grader Amelia C. of Liberty Elementary in North Ridgeville were all honored with proclamations, $50 gift cards, and miniature replicas of their billboard designs.
The student-created artwork will appear on prominent billboards throughout Lorain County to promote Lorain County Beautiful Day, scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025. Each vibrant design showcases messages of community pride, environmental stewardship, and creative expression.
The contest, sponsored by the Lorain County Solid Waste Management District, drew over 765 entries from students across the county. The goal: to raise awareness about the upcoming countywide litter cleanup and beautification effort.
“It was a tough decision,” organizers said during the meeting, citing the creativity and passion behind each submission. But in the end, these three entries stood out — and will now be seen by thousands as they drive through Lorain County.
Commissioners joined the students and their families for photos, beaming alongside the award-winning designs now destined for public display.
Keep Lorain County Beautiful Day will mobilize more than 1,500 volunteers to plant flowers, clean up litter, and beautify neighborhoods throughout the region. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, visit the Lorain County Solid Waste website.
