Michigan, USA – “It appears Sterling Heights is a hot bed for budding young artists and recycling craftsmen,” Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Anthony Marrocco said.  Each year the county holds an environmental calendar drawing contest to promote environmental preservation.

All the artists who submitted art work should be proud Marrocco commented. “These were excellent drawings. The judging was very difficult again this year because the entries from across the county were exceptional.”   The winning calendar entries for the 2008 environmental calendar were selected from a field of 700 entries across Macomb County.  Surprising the judges was Ivan Kesto, an inspirational third grade elementary school artist from Sterling Heights. 

Kesto of Jefferson Elementary School in the Warren Consolidated Schools district’s drawing was judged a winner.  Kesto was honored an awards ceremony at Independence Hall, at Freedom Hill County Park in Sterling Heights. Dubbed the promising Picasso, Kesto’s rendering will go on display in May.

The Shakespeare Company is offering a cruise to the wee winner on Lake St. Clair and REI is planning to take the young artist on a rock-wall adventure. 

The calendar drawing contest is part of a comprehensive environmental education program conducted by the Public Works Office. 

Kesto’s talent is testament to the creative wonders of a child.