The initial stage of the #IowansUnite Community contest is in the books. The video submitted by the Washington Chamber of Commerce, the City of Washington, and the Hotel Motel Advisory Committee eclipsed the 500-vote threshold.

With less than 15,000 residents, Washington was part of the small communities group. The Washington video received over 900 votes, putting it on the threshold of the large communities group requirement of 1,000 votes.

Washington will now have to wait until July 6th for its next challenge to demonstrate its community spirit, which it will have to complete in five business days. Washington will be competing against larger cities like Newton, which led all vote-getters with over 1,400 tallies.

An independent panel of judges will determine the winner by considering both the video and challenge submissions. The winner will receive a mural painted by Iowa-based artist Ben Schuh.