Chamber revives Pine Island Pole Painting Contest
The Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with LCEC, is reviving the Pine Island/Matlacha utility pole project. The GPICC is having a contest for all artists and creative people of the island to paint the utility poles on the island.
Because of Hurricane Charlie and other circumstances, many of the utility poles that were painted have been removed. Jennifer Jennings, executive director of the chamber, said, “The poles are a unique identity of the island.”
In a time when many islanders are involved with the Pine Island Plan, the GPICC feels reviving the pole painting project offers the community a sense community with a sense of camaraderie.
A $500 prize will be awarded to the grand prize winner who will be selected by the commanders of the American Legion, Moose, VFW and exalted ruler of the Elks. Each utility pole painted will require a $25 donation, which will be used towards the cost of the paint supplied by the GPICC.
The rules are simple:
No utility poles may be painted without the approval of the GPICC and LCEC.
All applicants must submit a rendering of the drawing the wish to paint. Approval by both GPICC & LCEC is required.
Only paint supplied by the chamber will be allowed.
Artwork should not include any writing or advertising of any type.
No holes may be drilled into the utility pole. Nothing can be attached to the pole.
No artwork shall go over 12 feet in height. No ladders taller than 12 feet can be used during painting.
No cement poles can be painted.
All work must be completed by Dec. 12.
The winner will be announced at the GPICC annual Christmas Party to be held Dec. 17 at the GPICC Welcome Center.