Tuesday June 9, 2020 ~ BC
by Mary Brooke ~ West Shore Voice News
With a theme that emphasizes staycations and sticking close to home during the reopening phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, BC Communities in Bloom (CiB) has launched a “Bloom Where You’re Planted” program.
Normally the CiB’s annual community beautification program takes place during the summer months, with judges touring the province to visit various member communities to assess things like first impressions (entry signage), use of town square space, respect for the natural environment and overall beautification of commercial and public areas with both landscaping and fixtures.
This year during the pandemic with its restrictions on travel and requiring physical distancing, participating municipalities may submit photos and a description for a reasonable fee based on the size of their community.
So far, their 2020 community members are all on the mainland: 100 Mile House, Armstrong, Burnaby, Castlegar, Clinton, Coquitlam, Hope, and Sicamous.
Unique recognition in 2020:
“This year’s contest is an opportunity for CiB to acknowledge and support communities in unique ways while staying right where we are,” says Catherine Kennedy, executive director, CiB BC.
“Showcase a space, place, garden helper, or how the CiB program is used to make a better home, community, and world,” she says.
Registration extended to October 31:
The registration deadline has been extended from June 30 to October 31, 2020. Submissions require just three or four photos and a 100-word description. All entrants receive a recognition certificate. Other opportunities for registered participants will be announced to registered participants in the weeks ahead.
Individuals may enter, as well as communities:
Individuals can enter for just $20. Community fees range from $50 to $500 based on population size.