SIEDC announces photo contest to put Staten Islanders in the running for $500 Gift Card to Buono Jewelers

Staten Island, N.Y. – Love was in the air on Hylan Boulevard as the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC), in collaboration with NYC Council Member Steven Matteo, Rab’s Country Lanes and Sweetbrook Nursery and Garden Center, unveiled a new public art installation: A fun and festive Valentine’s Day Photo Booth designed to bring the community together while supporting local business.

The Valentine’s-themed, 4’x6’x8′ natural wood booth was hand-crafted by Steve Korkowski, President and CEO of Sweetbrook Nursery & Garden Center. Located outside Rab’s Country Lanes, 1600 Hylan Blvd., the colorful red and pink booth is covered on top and has side panels to provide protection from the elements. It is free to use and open to the public for photos from February 1 to 14.

No significant other? No problem! Staten Islanders can take a photo alone, with a friend, family member or even a pet. All that’s needed is a smartphone and love for Staten Island.

“Our Valentine’s Day Photo Booth is a wonderful opportunity for people to enjoy a safe outdoor experience,” said Cesar J. Claro, President and CEO of the SIEDC. “Together with our partners Council Member Steven Matteo, Sweetbrook Nursery & Garden Center and Rab’s Country Lanes, we are thrilled to provide the community with a creative way to celebrate the season of love. Our hope is that Staten Islanders stop by the booth for a fun photo opp as they explore the many stores and dining spots located nearby.”

As part of the unveiling, the SIEDC announced a photo contest that gives Staten Island shutterbugs a chance to win a $500 gift card for Buono Jewelers. To participate, participants must take a creative photo inside the booth and upload it to Instagram or Facebook, tagging @SIEDC and using #SIEDCVDAY. The SIEDC will pick the winning photo based on creativity and flair, so participants are encouraged to dress to impress and let their personalities shine through.*

Public art is just one way the SIEDC works to improve neighborhood charm and build community throughout the borough. Through Business Improvement Districts and Merchant Associations, the SIEDC advocates for much-needed services including private maintenance and security, signage and way-finding information, and beautification initiatives such as holiday lights, new trash receptacles and much more.

More information about SIEDC public art installations, BIDS and Merchant Associations is available at siedc.org.

*Photo Contest Disclaimer:

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Participants will be judged on most creative photo by the SIEDC Projects Management Team. Any photos received after the assigned dates will not be considered. Winners will be notified through Instagram message. The winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries and announced on or before February 15, 2021 before 11:59pm EST. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by or associated with Instagram. SIEDC reserves the right to cancel or amend the rules of the contest without giving prior notice or reason.

About the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC)

Since 1993, the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) has served as the lead advocate for economic development on Staten Island. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, SIEDC’s mission is to enhance Staten Island’s economy by promoting public and private investment, and encouraging responsible and sustainable development, all of which improve the quality of life and provide broad and diverse employment opportunities in the borough.

SIEDC has been responsible for over $550 million in new investment, the creation of over 3,500 jobs and the development of over 1,000 acres of vacant industrial land by providing assistance to developers and companies implementing projects in the borough, while at the same time serving the smallest entrepreneur and small business owner with tailored financing, procurement, and real estate assistance.