Billboard contest open to teens

The McHenry County Department of Health is conducting its annual billboard contest for McHenry County high schools.

Since 2005, the contest has sought to highlight local talent while educating the community about the health effects of smoking.

Students may choose one of three categories for this year's entry: tobacco prevention, secondhand smoke or quit smoking.

Design specifics and entry forms are available at the Department of Health's Web site at www.mcdh.info.

Sponsored by MCDH, funding for this project was made possible through an Illinois Tobacco-Free Communities grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Entries are judged on originality, peer appeal and simple, colorful design. Making the final selection are teens from Reality Illinois Anti-Tobacco Advocacy groups, members of the McHenry County "Tobacco Free" Coalition, and MCDH's Health Promotion staff.

One or more billboards depicting the winning entry will be displayed throughout McHenry County.

Past winners include Jannis Riethmueller, Marengo Community High School; Ben Griffin, Crystal Lake Central High School; and Brittany Steiner, Woodstock High School.

Entry deadline is March 3.

For information about the contest, call the department of health at (815) 334-4931.