(Dec. 21, 2017) The Town of Berlin last week announced a contest to design a logo commemorating the 150th anniversary of the town.

Town Administrator Laura Allen said the announcement was posted on social media and “all of the local artists and art associations have been contacted.”

“I think it’s a great way to celebrate one of the many things that’s cool about Berlin, which is broad participation from members of the community, especially our artists,” Allen said.

Berlin Mayor Gee Williams spoke about the landmark anniversary during a tree-lighting ceremony, last month.

“It’s going to be a very special year, here in America’s coolest small town,” Williams said at the time. “With deep appreciation for our past … [and] with great hope and optimism for the future, let us together begin the celebration of the Town of Berlin’s 150th anniversary next year.”

Economic and Community Development Director Ivy Wells, during a Town Council meeting last Monday, said designs would be used on “banners and T-shirts and other merchandise” celebrating the incorporation of the town, in 1868.

Wells said the contest was forwarded to the Berlin Arts and Entertainment Committee and the Worcester County Arts Council.

“They’re very excited about it,” she said.

The contest deadline was recently extended to Saturday, Jan. 12 at 5 p.m. The winning designer will receive $100 in gift certificates to downtown shops and restaurants. The design will be presented during a mayor and council meeting.

Designs must be suitable for use online and in print, and should be flexible, meaning having the “ability to re-size and look good in black and white,” according to official contest rules.

All ages may enter the contest. Designs must be five colors or less and must include mention of “1868 – 2018; Berlin, Maryland and 150th.”

Entries must be original work of the artists. No third-party artwork or images, including clipart or copyrighted graphics, can be used. Previously published or exhibited work is also not permissible.

Electronic entries should be JPG or PDF format. Print submissions should be no larger than 8.5 by 11 inches.

To enter, email iwells@berlinmd.gov, mail to 150th LOGO Contest, Town of Berlin, 14 South Main Street, Berlin, Maryland, 21811. Drop off submissions at the Berlin Welcome Center on 14 South Main Street.

Include the artist’s name, address, phone number and email.

For more information on guidelines, visit www.BerlinMainStreet.com or www.berlinmd.gov.