BATAVIA — Clermont County will unveil its official flag at this year's Clermont County Fair, July 21-27.

        The county, which did not have a flag, asked residents to submit designs. Officials received about 45 entries, said Kathy Lehr, director of communications for the county.

        The winner is Melanie Gilliam, a graphic designer who lives in Union Township.

        The judges were county Commissioners Bob Proud, Mary Walker and Martha Dorsey; Rick Crawford, with the Clermont County Historical Society; June Creager, executive director of the Clermont County Convention and Visitors Bureau; and Jenny Sands, a Union Township resident.

        Ms. Gilliam said the idea for her simple design came rather quickly.

        “I wanted to get a feel for being alongside the Ohio River,” she said. “I knew I wanted a fluid feel to it. While I was playing with this it occurred to me, gee, this looks a lot like a sea, then a "C' for Clermont. I started with the water idea first.”

        Ms. Dorsey said the color catches the viewer's eye.

        “We had 45 excellent entries,” Ms. Lehr said. “The judges were impressed with the breadth of talent we have in Clermont County.”

        Said Ms. Walker: “I love the colors and the stylized "C' in the design that represents Clermont County's proximity to the Ohio River.”

        Said Mr. Proud: “The sweeping "C' in the design symbolizes Clermont County's continued growth and the promise of a bright future.” Ms. Gilliam said her winning design was one of three she submitted. The winner was her personal favorite.

        “I've done some corporate logo work, so I've seen my stuff in production before,” Ms. Gilliam said. “This is a little different. This is a little bit of history.”

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