Freeborn County residents again have the opportunity to submit scenic photos from the Albert Lea-Freeborn County area as part of the annual Chamber of Commerce Christmas ornament contest.

Residents can submit up to two photos through Sept. 10. No photos of groups or people will be accepted.

Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce Operations Manager Tami Riecke said previous winning photos included the fountains on Fountain Lake in 2004, the Fountain Lake Park gazebo in 2005, Albert Lea Lake in 2006, downtown Albert Lea in 2007, the trail near the Brookside boat landing in 2008, and Katherine Island in the winter in 2009.

“Anybody can win,” Riecke said. “The picture just has to be something in Freeborn County.

“It’s a great way to have your voice be heard and get your pictures out there,” she added.

To participate, people can drop off 4-by-6-inch photos at the Chamber Office in the Northbridge Mall or e-mail them to operations@albertlea.org. They can also be mailed to 2580 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea.

Pictures will be numbered and posted in the chamber office and online at www.albertlea.org from Sept. 15-29. Residents can vote in person or on the website.

The picture with the most votes will be featured on the 2010 Chamber Christmas ornament, which is a three-inch, round, full-color ceramic ornament.

Riecke said the winner will be notified in October of the selection and will receive a gift basket of donated items from area businesses.

To reserve an ornament, call the Chamber office at 373-3938. Ornaments are $6.