CLEVELAND, Ohio \u2014\u00a0Each year, amateur photographers from across Ohio showcase their best pictures of Lake Erie, competing to capture its beauty in a single shot.\u00a0<\/p>\n
After reviewing the submissions, the Ohio Lake Erie Commission announced its winning photographs for its 34th annual contest.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThese photos capture the spirit of Lake Erie in all its forms,\u201d said Joy Mulinex, the executive director of OLEC. \u201cFrom wildlife encounters to vibrant community life, every year this contest reminds us how deeply people are connected to Lake Erie and how important it is to continue to protect and restore the entire watershed.\u201d<\/p>\n
The contest helps to highlight the lake, bringing awareness to its environmental, economic, and cultural importance to the region.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Judge\u2019s Favorite honor was awarded to \u201cGreat Morning with a Great Blue Heron\u201d by Bridget Papagianidis.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Additional winners of the contest include:<\/p>\n
Fireworks on Lake Erie \u2013 Scott Dommin, Vermilion (taken in Vermilion)<\/p>\n
Racing Past Conneaut Lighthouse \u2013 Richard McBride, Conneaut (taken at Conneaut Township Park)<\/p>\n
Follow the Leader \u2013 Dianne Rozak, Marblehead (taken at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area)<\/p>\n
Sails, Fireworks, and Headlines \u2013 Doug Tayek, Shaker Heights (taken at North Coast Harbor, Cleveland)<\/p>\n
A Perfect Day for the Beach \u2013 Judy Hanna, Akron (taken in Vermilion)<\/p>\n
Up, Up, and Away \u2013 Tom Bognar, Sagamore Hills (taken at Edgewater Park, Cleveland)<\/p>\n
The Love of Two Sisters \u2013 Tricia Pugh, Massillon (taken at Headlands Beach)<\/p>\n
Matt the Surfer \u2013 Mike Pinzone, North Royalton (taken at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park)<\/p>\n