A contest that has been going for 14 years.
The winners of the annual North Dakota Governor’s Photo Contest were honored at a state Capitol ceremony.
"With North Dakota's amazing topography, stunning landscapes and great wildlife, and beautiful people, this is a great opportunity to capture all of the best that North Dakota has," said Gov. Doug Burgum.
Winners were selected in six categories. Josiah Kopp of Beulah won in the “Adventure and Recreation” category – and also won ”best of show” – for his photo, called “Sailing Dreams” – taken at Lake Sakakawea near Pick City.
"I love sailboats," Kopp said. "I do a lot of oil painting, and I love painting salilboats. When I saw these, I just fell in love with it."
Kopp said his challenge was to get the Milky Way galaxy behind the boats.
"It took a few tries, and it was pretty tough," Kopp said. "But I picked one of the shots, and it seemed to all come together just right."
Other winners include Meredith Jo Ehli of Bismarck in “Places to Visit;” Brian Heskin of Minot for “Communities and Events;” Mandy Dendy of Bismarck in “Fun with Family and Friends;” Jeff Smith of Bottineau in “Scenery;” and Tom Wirtz of Bismarck in “Wildlife.” The photos will be displayed in the Attorney Generals’ office and the state Treasurer’s office, and may be used in Tourism Division material.
