The Banana Statue

Melita is a small town located in the southwestern part of Manitoba. With a population of approximately 1100, it is known as the Grasslands Bird Capital of Manitoba. It is also known as the Banana Belt due to its slightly warmer climate than the rest of the province.
As a way of attracting tourists to the small town, the community decided to erect a 30-foot, 6200 pound banana statue. This statue was unveiled last month on August 7th. The town is holding a naming contest until midnight on September 30th to give the banana a name on it's champion wrestler-looking belt, underneath the inscription "Welcome to the Banana Belt."
Two names will be chosen, one for the banana and one for the blue jay that is perched on the right arm of the banana, representing how the town is well-known for it's bird population. This contest is open to everyone, so I encourage all to participate in the naming process.. I mean how often do you get to name a 30-foot banana? To fill out an entry form, click here.
The banana statue was built in Calgary by Heavy Industries, a manufacturing company. It was brought to Melita on a flatbed truck and unveiled during the town's Banana Days. During this special occasion, the town gave out free banana splits to all those who attended. If only I had known.. who doesn't love a free banana split?
You can join the Banana Belt Facebook group to get to know the banana better. 

This photo was taken by the Brandon Sun prior to the banana taking its upright position.