In the year 2000, former Governor Robert Ray and Founder and Chairman of Casey’s General Stores Donald Lamberti finalized their plans to create a state-wide organization that would assist Iowa communities in making the state a better place to live, work and raise a family. Born was KEEP IOWA BEAUTIFUL, the 23rd state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful.
“In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the founding, KIB has created an expanded photo contest with a pot of cash awards of over $2,000,” said Kevin Techau, KIB Executive Director.
“This is a great way for Iowans to share what they like about Iowa,” added Techau. “There are five categories to enter your favorite photo of what makes you proud to be an Iowan and captures the beauty and spirit of Iowa.”
The two-phase contest begins now with entry deadline on December 18, 2020. Each of the five categories will be awarded 1st place: $100, 2nd place: $75, and 3rd place: $50.
January 18-31, 2021, the five first-place winners will be on KIB social media for voting and selecting the Social Media Favorite. The winner will receive an additional $100. At that time the Robert D. Ray Best of Show Awards will be announced. 1st place: $500, 2nd place: $250 and 3rd place: $100.
Randi (Ray) Watson, Robert and Billie Ray’s eldest daughter, has agreed to serve on a panel of judges. “One of my Dad’s favorite hobbies was photography,” said Randi. “During his 14 years as governor, he and my Mother traveled to many places around the world and he usually had a camera hanging around his neck.” Randi added, “Dad was so proud of Iowans and their efforts to make Iowa a great place to live.”
The five categories are:
- Iowa Landscape
Capture Iowa’s beauty through depictions of Iowa’s landscape, including but not limited to: farm fields, rolling hills, and wooded forests. - Iowa Water
Feature Iowa’s beautiful water systems with depictions of Iowa rivers, streams, ponds and lakes. - Iowa Cities
Iowa’s urban centers are hubs of history, culture, and beauty. This category features depictions of Iowa’s cities, street scenes, and urban landmarks. - Iowans in Action
This category aims to capture the spirit of Iowa through depictions of the people that live, work, and play in Iowa. All means of action that can be captured: biking, running, fishing, hunting and hiking are but a few. - Iowa Wildlife
Iowa is home to a variety of beautiful critters. This category aims to showcase Iowa’s beauty through depictions of Iowa’s wildlife animals: mammals, fish, birds, bugs and more!
Contest rules and entry guidelines are on KIB’s website. www.keepiowabeautiful.com
