DRC picks Heidesign

    PRESQUE ISLE – The graphic designer responsible for developing logos for a number of Aroostook County businesses and organizations, including the 2004 Biathlon World Cup in Fort Kent that earned her an American Graphic Design Award, has been selected to design the new logo and slogan for downtown Presque Isle.     Heidi Carter, who owns and is the creative director for Heidesign in Fort Kent, was selected as the successful designer from among the four proposals submitted to the Promotions Committee of the Presque Isle Downtown Revitalization Committee. Working collaboratively with the Committee, Carter will now begin her efforts on the Downtown branding project, which will include a series of forums with area leaders, business owners and community members in the Star City on Feb. 23 that will serve as a fact-finding opportunity for the artist and an opportunity for public input.   
    “We are anxious to hear and see Heidi’s creative ideas for the logo/slogan for downtown. After reading her proposal and seeing examples of Heidesign’s work, I feel confident that our Committee chose someone with great insight which will promote downtown Presque Isle in a positive manner,” said Billie Brodsky, chair of the Presque Isle Downtown Revitalization Promotions Committee. “We are also looking forward to engaging the community in the process as we move forward. The Committee and Heidi want to hear from area business owners and community members on their thoughts about downtown Presque Isle.”
    The day-long itinerary on Monday, Feb. 23, includes two open sessions: a meeting for area business owners at 2 p.m. at the Northeastland Hotel, and a session in the evening at 6:30 p.m. for interested community members, also at the Northeastland Hotel. Carter will facilitate the meetings and hopes to hear from community members on their impressions, stories and visions for the downtown.  
    “I was thrilled to learn that the Committee selected me to work on a logo for downtown Presque Isle. A project like this has the potential to affect a great number of people in a very positive way. Presque Isle has always been the shopping center of the County, but I am looking forward to uncovering the other treasures of the community to develop a logo that truly is representative of the city,” said Carter.
    The downtown branding project is a collaborative effort between the city of Presque Isle and the Presque Isle Downtown Revitalization Committee, which is coordinating the branding and marketing efforts of Presque Isle’s forward-moving community in the city’s downtown area. Usage of the logo and tagline will be widespread, serving as a visual representation and symbol of recognition for area residents, business owners and the public.
    Ultimately, a public vote will decide the new image of the Star City’s downtown from options developed by Heidesign and reviewed by the Committee. Voting on the proposals will take place after the final two options are selected by the PIDRC and unveiled in late March. Community members will be able to vote through the PIDRC’s Web site and in person at planned community events through mid April.
    For more information on the Feb. 23 sessions, contact Brodsky at 540-1185.