“I started with a picture of the white bridge at Chapman Park,” she said. “From there I used graphics to represent big events in town: Rodeo, Tractor pull, Watermelon Fest, and Classic car show.” After finding a few different mottos for the city, Goettl said she chose “The Best of Times Start in Stanley,” a motto that she found on the city’s website. As to the color palette choice, Goettl said that, “the color scheme is in honor of the school.” From inception to completion was a relatively smooth process, thanks in part to school administrative assistant Renee Mahal.

“Once the design was approved it was sent to Badger State Industries at the Stanley Correctional Institution. Renee Mahal was the contact between the school and the prison and kept the project moving smoothly,” Goettl shared.

Prior to installation of the sign at Hansen’s a few of the backing boards had to be replaced due to weathering. Whereas the old sign was painted on, the new sign is bolted on in separate panels and surrounded by a black border.

Now installed above the parking lot at Hansen’s IGA, Stanley has a new sign to welcome visitors to town!