The Friends of Hocking Hills State Park are now preparing for the 2010 editions of the group's signature annual events...and looking forward to setting new highs, after 2009's Shoot the Hills Photography Competition and the Hocking Hills Poker Run raised over $10,000 to support the Hocking Hills State Park. Each event attracted record numbers of participants and dollars for the cause.
Approximately 200 photographers from six states hiked with their gear through the scenic trails, caves, hollows, meadows and other attractions that have drawn visitors from across the country for decades. The Friends of the Hocking Hills again awarded thousands of dollars in prizes to the winning shots in both Digital RAW/SLR and Point-and-Shoot divisions. The prize money was generated from the over $16,000 in sponsorships from over 40 businesses & organizations.
In addition to doing a bit of browsing, non-photographers had the opportunity to win door prizes themselves while also voting for the "People's Choice" Award photograph...to Christopher Henschen. The "Photographer's Choice" Award went to Matt Studebaker. Professional and amateur photographers competed in multiple divisions. All the winning entries will appear in a new Collector's Edition book. Hundreds of outstanding photographs were entered in the 24 hour competition. Now also part of this special event is "Shoppe the Hills," with sponsors displaying their art and wares in the Hocking Hills State Park Dining Lodge.
And over 200 riders turned out for the Poker Run, and were also treated to a "Taste of the Hocking Hills" for the post-ride meal, thanks to local restaurants.