METROPOLIS – State Rep. Patrick Windhorst says voting is now open in his inaugural “Southern Illinois is Beautiful” photo contest.

Rep. Windhorst received more than 50 submissions of photos from district residents putting their talent on display. Voting will take place on Rep. Windhorst’s official Facebook page at Facebook.com/StateRepWindhorst.

“I’m very pleased with the outstanding submissions we received this year for our first ever ‘Southern Illinois is Beautiful’ photo contest. Our region is blessed with some natural beauty, and it turns out a lot of creative and talented folks that really know how to capture it in photos,” Windhorst said. “I’m encouraging everyone to check out the finalists on my Facebook page and cast your vote for your favorite!”

Voting began Tuesday and ends on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 5 p.m. The photo in each category (adult and student) receiving the most likes and loves will be declared the winner. Winning photographers will receive an official certificate of congratulations from the Illinois House of Representatives signed by Rep. Windhorst. Winning submissions will also be placed on display in Rep. Windhorst’s capitol office as well as his Harrisburg and West Frankfort district offices.