TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Clerk's Office is encouraging the public to cast a ballot or "like" for their favorite poster in the annual "My County" poster contest on Facebook.

The public is invited to select their top four choices for the contest by liking the posters that are now available to view on the Ocean County Clerk's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OceanCountyClerk.

"This contest gives students a chance to share what Ocean County looks like through their eyes," said the Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Jennifier Bacchione, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Clerk's Office. "It is always exciting to see the pride these students have in their communities, and we are proud to highlight their work."

As part of "National County Government Month," fourth graders from across Ocean County were invited to participate in the Ocean County Clerk's annual "My County" poster contest to highlight what they thought makes Ocean County the best place to live.

Voting is open from now until 3 p.m. on April 24. The four posters receiving the highest number of "likes" will be the top four winners including first, second and third place and honorable mention.

"These posters capture the spirit of Ocean County in a really genuine way," said Bacchione. "We look forward to meeting the winners and congratulating them on their excellent work."

Ocean County Clerk John P. Kelly, who leads the annual poster contest, noted that his office received 75 posters from pupils attending 23 different schools in Ocean County. There are 10 posters on the County Clerk's Facebook page to vote on or like.

"These students are very creative highlighting everything from the Barnegat Lighthouse, to our beaches, our County Parks, and some of the many attractions such as the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Jenkinson's Aquarium and Six Flags," said Kelly. "I want to extend my appreciation to the students, teachers and schools for participating in this contest."

The winning student artists will be recognized by Ocean County's Constitutional Officers and the Ocean County Board of Commissioners at the Ocean County Board of Commissioners' meeting at 4 p.m. on May 6.

"We are proud to support programs like this that connect young residents to their local government and community," the Board said in a joint statement. "The creativity and thoughtfulness shown in these posters reflect the pride our students have in Ocean County and the bright future ahead."