JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Secretary of State Denny Hoskins has announced the winning entries from the 2025–2026 Missouri Official Manual (“Blue Book”) Photo Contests are now on display at the Missouri State Fair. Visitors can view the winning photographs at the Missouri Secretary of State’s booth in the Agriculture Building throughout the duration of the fair.
This year, two themed contests—Missouri Sunrises and Man’s Best Friend—invited Missourians to submit their best photographs capturing the beauty, spirit, and character of the Show-Me State. Winners were selected through public voting on social media, giving Missourians the opportunity to help shape the visual story of their state.
The Missouri Sunrises winners are: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15xJmEoHcX/
- Sunrise with Lightning – Pam Stewart, Higbee, Missouri
- Morning Harvest – Bob Crow, Hartsburg, Missouri
- First Light on Hannibal – Jason Ayers, Hannibal, Missouri
The Man’s Best Friend winners are: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1729DERAH7/
- Walter – Photographer Marianne Cline, near Cole County Fairgrounds; submitted by Maeve Prusnick
- Heidi – Geren Revis, Mountain View, Missouri
- Rigi, Brown Eyed Girl – Kim Verslues, Bonnots Mill, Missouri
“The Missouri Blue Book photo contest is more than just a competition—it’s a way to preserve and share the beauty of our great state,” said Secretary Hoskins. “We’re proud to highlight the talent of Missouri photographers and give fairgoers a chance to see our state’s landscapes, people, and culture through their lenses.”
The Missouri Official Manual, first published in 1878, serves as a historical reference and guide to the state’s government, culture, and heritage. The photo contest, open to amateur and professional photographers alike, continues the tradition of featuring Missouri’s beauty in each edition.
Fairgoers are encouraged to stop by the Missouri Secretary of State’s booth in the Agriculture Building to view the winning photographs, learn more about the Blue Book, and explore other resources and programs offered by the office.
The display is also attached for reference. For more information on the Missouri Official Manual and the photo contest, visit www.sos.mo.gov/bluebook.
About the Missouri Official Manual
Published biennially by the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office since 1878, the Missouri Official Manual—commonly known as the “Blue Book”—serves as the state’s definitive reference on Missouri’s government, history, and culture. It includes information on elected officials, state agencies and salaries, the legislative process, election results, and historical features, as well as photographs and other highlights that celebrate the people and places of the Show-Me State.
About the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office
The Missouri Secretary of State’s Office serves as a central hub for key state functions that promote transparency, security, and opportunity for all Missourians. The Office oversees the administration of fair and secure elections, registers and supports businesses, maintains and preserves state records through the State Archives, and ensures public access to government rulemaking via the Administrative Rules Division.
Additionally, the Office protects investors through the Securities Division, supports libraries and literacy programs across the state, and administers the Safe at Home address confidentiality program for survivors of abuse and assault. With a commitment to service, accountability, and civic engagement, the Secretary of State’s Office works every day to strengthen Missouri’s government and communities.
