There’s still time to take on an ambitious summer project, and here’s an extra incentive: the 26th annual Chicago Finest Painted Ladies and Her Court Competition is underway and accepting entries. An event of the Chicago Paint & Coatings Association, the contest (which isn’t exclusive to Victorian-style homes) considers homes and creative projects painted between Labor Day 2011 and Labor Day 2012. The entries are judged on how paint was used to enhance the appearance of the property, along with how well the design fits into the neighborhood. Winners will be awarded a professionally photographed picture of their home, matted and framed, and the grand-prize winner will also receive an engraved plaque. The entry form is available online.