The Cowley County Tourism Alliance wants help identifying the eight wonders of Cowley County and is asking local residents to help by taking part in a photo essay contest.
The Kansas Sampler Foundation has named the eight elements of rural culture: architecture, art, commerce, cuisine, customs, geography, history and people. The Sampler is holding a contest to name the eight wonders of Kansas.
Locally, the Cowley tourism alliance would like people from around the county to help name one item ? person, place, event, etc. ? the top wonder in each of the eight categories.
A photo essay contest will help kick off the process.
People entering the contest are asked to take photo of their nomination and explain its importance in a short essay. Individuals may enter a photo essay in as many element categories as they choose.
Photo essays must be turned in to the Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce or the Arkansas City Chamber of Commerce by 5 p.m. on June 3. Judging will take place June 4 and 5. Winners of the contest will be announced at PrairieFest in Arkansas City on June 6.
The photo criteria are:
1.Photo content must fall under one of the 8 elements of rural culture categories, architecture, art, commerce, cuisine, customs, geography, history, people.
2. All photos must be printed on photo quality paper.
3. Photo must be 5 x 7 or 8 x 10 in size.
4.Photo must be mounted on white or black cardstock that is larger than the photo; no framing or matting.
5.Necessary information must be typed and affixed to the back of the cardstock, which should include, photographer’s name, address, phone number, age, category, location of photo, title, and element?category (art, customs, people etc.).
6. Photos must be unaltered, no typing on photos, no altered edges, no photo techniques .
7. Black and white photos will be accepted. Individuals may submit more than one photo.
8.Photo must also be submitted digitally on a CD in addition to the hard copy.
The essay criteria:
1.Content should explain the significance of the element pictured, significance can be to the individual or to the community.
2.Essays must be typed and be less than 300 words.
3.The essay should be printed on white cardstock and must be submitted digitally on a CD in addition to the hard copy, single space, 12 point font, Arial or Times New Roman.
4.Must include pertinent information at the top of the essay, along with the photo/essay title, photographers name, address, phone number, age category, location of photo, title, element category such as art, customs, people etc.
There will be 3 age categories: 13 and under; 14-18 category; 19 and up
This year there will be 3 prizes given. The winner in the 13 and under category will be awarded a camera. The winner in the 14-18 category will also be given a camera. The 19 and up winner will receive one overnight stay at the Log Cabins at the Stone Barn Mercantile and a meal for 2 from The Gathering Place.
