ISLAND FALLS, Maine — The Island Falls Recreation Department, in conjunction with Versant Power, is hoping to see homes brightly illuminated this holiday season.
“This year, since our recreation department is not supporting many events, we decided it would be nice to do a contest and encourage the community to decorate,” explained Ruth Frazier, recreation director. “It gives the community something to look forward to, to drive by and enjoy seeing the decorations.”
The recreation department used to partner with Maine Public Service, who supplied electricity coupons for the winners. Since Maine Public Service changed owners, interest in the contest waned, Frazier said.
“But this year, the rec committee chose to do it with my suggestion and I decided to contact Versant to see if they would help,” she said. “They are sending the Rec $225 to purchase gift certificates in our area, which will be at places like Porters, Jerry’s Food Store and Birch Point.”
First prize will be $150 in cash and $100 in gift cards, while second prize is $100 cash and $75 in gift cards and third place is $75 cash and $50 in gift cards.
The only requirements are to decorate homes on the exterior. People are encouraged to use LED lighting or energy saving lights, Frazier added.
Participants are asked to register by Dec. 18 by calling Frazier at 207-463-2263 or the Island Falls Town Office at 207-463-2246.
“We just decided we needed to put some joy in people’s lives,” Frazier said. “I have heard some stories of so many teenagers having a really hard time with all these restrictions due to COVID 19, so we just want to put a little joy and smiles on families faces.”
