It's a splash of creativity for a good cause in Raleigh, where budding young artists are making waves in the Stormwater Sticker Contest. The city's Stormwater Maintenance Team called on local students to stick their claim in the fight against water pollution, leading to a deluge of artistic submissions. The contest, which aimed to raise awareness about the importance of clean waterways, recently announced its winners in their website.

The competition drew an impressive 29 entries with participants from grades 2 through 12, each student bringing a unique perspective on the themes 'Water Connects Us', 'Water is Life,' 'Clean Pipes, Clean Rivers.' After what one imagines was a tough decision-making process—because, kids' art—the staff at Raleigh Stormwater recognized three winners and one honorable mention.

Fetching first place is Charlotte Claiborne, a fifth grader whose design will now be seen at Raleigh Stormwater's outreach events. Not far behind, Sofia Garcia Vazquez, an eighth grader, secured the second place. The third place was artfully claimed by Bailey McKenzie, who's in fourth grade. Although only one can take the top spot, these young artists all showcased a keen understanding of the issues at hand through their visual expressions.

An honorable mention was also given, not to fellow students, but to the creative duo of Kevin McMahon and Alpha Stylo from the Raleigh Convention Center Maintenance Department. You can check out each of these standout stickers, starting early this year, at various events where the Raleigh Stormwater team will proudly table their cause.