Tuesday, Jan 29, 2013 10:09 PM UTC
Weird news: Gnomes to stay on California utility poles (for now)
There are currently more than 2,000 gnome paintings on utility poles, with many screwed to the bases
Topics: Weird news
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Small paintings of gnomes that have popped up on utility poles have become a community sensation in Oakland, prompting Pacific Gas & Electric Co. to say Tuesday that it will keep them in place for now.
The hand-painted portraits on 6-inch blocks of wood began going up last year in an apparent effort to brighten up the blue-collar California city. There are currently more than 2,000 of the images on utility poles, with many screwed to the bases.
The gnomes have red hats, white beards and brown shoes. Some of the images contain a mushroom.
Word that PG&E planned to remove the paintings sparked an outpouring of support from residents who said the gnomes add character to the city.
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