Winners of the 2021 Bluffton Lions Club annual Peace Poster contest were recognized in a club meeting on Tuesday, November 16. Winners were given certificates and small cash awards by club president Patty Navin. Each winner explained her poster to the club.

The first place winner is Nora Matthews, daughter of Brendon and Rene Mattthews. Her poster will be considered along with winners sponsored by other Lions clubs in northwest Ohio. The district winner will advance to the state level. The poster contest extends to the international level with participants from many countries.

The two runners-up were Brookelyn Richardson, granddaughter of Lizette Richardson, and Bekah Rehm, daughter of Jami and Brad Rehm.  

Posters were created by students in the Bluffton Schools 7th grade art class taught by Becky Boblitt. Posters were judged on artistic merit, creativity and effectiveness in expressing the theme of this year's contest:  “We are all connected.”  During design development, students were able to visit the Lion and Lamb Peace Center at Bluffton University.  They also viewed some of the international poster winners from previous years. Matthews’ poster depicted a concept of world peace depending on the nations of the world working together.

Judges for the Bluffton contest were Jerry Szabo, Carolyn Rich and Jan Emmert.

The Bluffton Lions Club participates in international activities related to vision, conquering blindness and helping youth.  Recent service activities have included developing Bluffton’s bikeway paths, vision screening for young children, scholarships for local graduates, the annual Festival of Wheels, the Ride to Remember, and supporting other local organizations.