Communities in Bloom is well underway in the District of 100 Mile House.
With most of the plant material in pots and borders and gardens, now is the time to get those plants bloomin' beautiful.
Now is the time to register yourself, a friend or neighbour to compete for the "best of..." awards that will be announced at the community barbecue on July 19 at Centennial Park.
The entry deadline is July 1. Registration forms are available at the District of 100 Mile House and the South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce offices.
Communities in Bloom was developed to provide a strong level of civic pride in the communities that get involved. It is voluntary by the community, and this year, the district and the chamber of commerce have been the main force to bring this project to town.
"I've wanted Communities in Bloom in our community for 12 years now and this year we were able to convince the district and chamber to participate," says chamber vice-president Tom Bachynski.
"It's been a real eye-opener. Kevin Dicken, district operations supervisor, has done such a wonderful job for the district, with all the flowerbeds, it just had to be celebrated. Little did I know that Communities in Bloom was much more than a bunch of pretty flowers.
"I think the community is enjoying the idea this year. Certainly, the steering committee is on a fast track of learning and are already making plans for next year."
Communities in Bloom judges look much deeper than floral displays in a community. Other aspects include urban forestry, water conservation, turf spaces, heritage preservation, environmental action, and community involvement.
Our community is rich in assets for Communities in Bloom, Bachynski says, which should help our bloom production during the judging.
One to five blooms are awarded to communities for their presentation to their judges.
The judges arrive in town the afternoon of July 19. The organizers have planned a community barbecue for Centennial Park with the plan of showing off our community spirit.
The planning committee is also seeking some promotional sponsors because putting on these events requires a lot of planning and money, Bachynski adds.
"The committee requires some funding to help make sure it is an event worth being at."
Any community-minded businesses that would like to be part of Communities in Bloom are encouraged to call Angela or Shari at 250-395-4017.
Bachynski notes the sponsors will have a lot of opportunities for anyone wishing to get involved.
Over the course of the next several weeks, Communities in Bloom, 100 Mile House will have articles in the Free Press to explain how 100 Mile House applies the various elements of the program into the area.