Enter the Tom Cain Memorial Photography Contest

Put your photography skills to the test in Union City’s Tom Cain Memorial Photography Contest.

The deadline to submit photos is approaching fast on Jan. 4.

Previously known as the annual Union City Photo Contest, the Leisure Services contest was renamed to honor well-known Union City stalwart Tom Cain, who passed away in April at the age of 52 after a long bout with Leukemia.

Cain, a son of longtime City of Union City staff member Judy Cain, had a special gift for photography and took pictures at many local events, said Chris Valuckas, recreation supervisor for UCLS.

“Despite having Downs Syndrome, Tom was very active in the community and with the City of Union City and always had his camera by his side, ready to take pictures,” Valuckas said. “Everybody in the community that knew Tom loved them and were more than happy to oblige when he wanted to take their photo.”

"He really was a goodwill ambassador for the city through both his love of photography and city’s programs," Valuckas added.

Cain photographed a number of events over the years, many of which were used in the city's advertising and marketing materials.

During Cain's memorial service, many of his photographers were on display and were given as gifts to his loved ones, according to Valuckas. 

"He really touched the lives of everyone that worked for and lived in the city for close to 40 years because of his photography," Valuckas said.

The memorial contest is open to all Bay Area residents ages 14 and older.

Winning photographs will be displayed at the Union City Sports Center starting Feb. 1 with photographers honored at a special reception hosted by Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci. Winners will also receive a certificate, ribbon and special gift during the reception.

The winning photos will be shown at the Sports Center for three months before moving to City Hall where they will be displayed for six months, according to Valuckas.

Entries may be submitted in six different categories: people, environment, altered images, animals, candid family and black-and-white.

Only one photo in each category may be submitted. The fee to enter the contest is $5 per photo or $25 for those entering all six categories. 

The photos will be judged for creativity, quality and how the image represents the selected category.

Download the entry form to see the full contest guidelines.

For more information, call Chris Valuckas at 510-675-5328.

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