Top honors for the 2016 America in Bloom National Awards Program will be announced at the annual symposium and awards held in Arroyo Grande on October 6-8. The event is open to anyone and registration can be completed at www.AmericaInBloom.org.
America in Bloom is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting nationwide beautification programs and personal and community involvement through the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancement.
The event will feature optional pre-tours to Hearst Castle, Point San Luis Lighthouse, and nearby AIB community Morro Bay (special registration required).
Thursday, October 6 features a celebration of communities in which each participant will be recognized with their special mention. Community Champion nominees will also be honored.
On Friday, October 7, the day starts with a welcome from AIB president Katy Moss Warner and a keynote address by marine meteorologist and research scientist John Lindsay, titled “Changing Weather and Climate Patterns.” Following will be two panel presentations, “Protecting and Preserving Champion Trees” and “The Value of Beautiful Landscapes.” These presentations will be followed by a panel discussion of what America in Bloom judges look for when they evaluate a community.
Lunch at Avila Beach will be followed by a walking tour of Arroyo Grande and a wine reception.
Saturday, October 8 events include a showcase of innovation, keynote by AIB president Katy Moss Warner, “Looking to the Future,” followed by a town hall meeting and the opportunity for participants to meet with each other and their judges. The afternoon includes a tour of PanAmerican Seed Company and Cal Poly Leaning Pine Arboretum.
Awards will be announced at a gala on Saturday evening.
All participants were evaluated on six criteria: overall impression, environmental awareness, heritage preservation, urban forestry, landscaped areas, and floral displays. Additionally they were judged on their community involvement across municipal, residential, and commercial sectors. America in Bloom is the only national awards program that sends specially-trained judges to personally visit participants. In addition, each participant receives a detailed written evaluation that can be used as a guide to future improvements.
For more details on the symposium and to register, go to www.AmericaInBloom.org.
