Living in the News .Com reported back in mid-August that the Weiser Economic Development Task Force wanted to somehow create a new welcome sign to display and replace the red and white ones built years ago that are deteriorating. The signs welcome travelers and show a sense of pride in our community as you enter city limits.
The contest was hugely successful with 30 entries! Organizer Patrick Nauman shared that most of the entries were from locals and the committee was able to narrow down the finalists to two incredible artists whom they felt were both worthy of a cash prize. The initial prize money was increased in an effort to give both finalists the credit they deserve for such an amazing job.
The two finalists have been selected and they are: Heather Reed Thomas and Josh Foster! Each finalist was rewarded with a check for $300.00 recently presented to them.
Nauman also explained that the committee will not yet be announcing the winner of the contest until the first completed sign is ready to be revealed, which will likely be in the spring of 2022. The committee has hired a local artist to make three signs. Nauman shared that the committee is also applying for grants to help pay for the project, which could take a while. In the meantime, other plans will be in the works for placement of the new signs, landscaping around them, and acquiring the proper permits from the State of Idaho.
Congratulations to the finalists! We can’t wait to see the big reveal!
