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Kansas travelers share stories during fall travel contest
new deh byways release Gypsum Hills.tif
Shownis the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway. Travelers are encouraged to enter a contest relating their stories of the 10 historic and scenic byways in Kansas.

TOPEKA – Kansas byway travelers can win one of five Flip HD video camcorders by entering their favorite Kansas byway story now through Dec. 31 online at www.mykansasbywaystory.com.

My Kansas Byway Story contest is sponsored jointly by the Kansas Department of Commerce, Travel & Tourism Division, and the Kansas Department of Transportation to help promote the Kansas Scenic Byways Program, a collection of 10 historic and scenic roadways across the state. Visitors will enjoy stunning vistas, picturesque valleys and quaint towns filled with fun activities. As motorists explore the state’s natural beauty and historic significance, they are encouraged to write about their experiences and share pictures for a chance to win a camcorder.

"Fall in Kansas is particularly beautiful with the incredible colors that transform our native grasses and trees. It’s the perfect time to take a road trip on one of the Kansas byways and experience all the natural beauty and unique experiences that Kansas has to offer," said Becky Blake, Director of Kansas Travel & Tourism Division.

A series of sample itineraries is available on the mykansasbywaystory.com site in easy-to-print and downloadable formats that highlight the following themes: Breathtaking Views, America’s Frontier, A Story of the Old West and A Story of the Prairie. All itineraries contain suggested stops along the byway, including charming towns, museums, one-of-a-kind shops, lodging and restaurants.

"Kansas Scenic Byways provide motorists the opportunity to see and experience the many appealing and unique regions of our state," said Transportation Secretary Deb Miller. "But our Scenic Byways program would not be as successful if not for the Department of Commerce. I appreciate the cooperation between our two agencies. Together we are drawing attention to communities off the main highways, increasing economic development and promoting the state’s natural beauty."

The Kansas Scenic Byways Program was formed to identify and designate scenic and historic roadways for the enjoyment of Kansas travelers. The program is a cooperative effort among citizens, local groups, local governments and state agencies. The Kansas Scenic Byways Program is part of the National Scenic Byways Program, which is administered by the Federal Highway Administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The Kansas Travel & Tourism Division is the official state division responsible for promoting state travel and tourism for the purpose of economic development and jobs creation. Scenic drives and byways are consistently one of the top interests selected by visitors to Kansas. Therefore, Kansas Travel & Tourism has actively promoted and marketed the Scenic Byways of Kansas through various publications, articles and websites in cooperation with the Kansas Department of Transportation.

For additional information, visit www.mykansasbywaystory.com or contact Kelli Hilliard at 785-296-4922.