During their regular meeting on Monday, July 20, the Union County Board of Commissioners recognized the winners of "America the Beautiful", the County's America 250 student art contest. Each student received a certificate in recognition of their creativity. The People's Choice winners were selected after an enthusiastic response from community members, who placed more than 1,000 votes through the Engage Union County online engagement platform.

In partnership with the Union County Community Arts Council, the contest invited local kindergarten through 12th grade students to create original artwork inspired by the theme, "America the Beautiful." Students were encouraged to capture what makes America beautiful to them through natural landscapes, wildlife, patriotic symbols, landmarks, or favorite places across the United States and Union County. A total of 50 submissions were submitted.

The contest was open to students enrolled in public, charter, private, and homeschool programs, with entries divided into three grade-level categories: K-3, 4-6, and 7-12. The America 250 Student Art Contest celebrates the artistic talents of Union County youth while encouraging community pride as the nation continues to celebrate America 250. The contest focuses on the important role young artists play in telling the story of America through their own perspectives.