Lakeside is excited to welcome America in Bloom (AIB) advisors to Lakeside July 5-7. AIB’s mission is to promote nationwide beautification through education and community involvement by encouraging the use of flowers, plants, trees and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements.
The AIB Program is a competition with communities across America where a group of judges will evaluate participants on the following categories:
- Community Vitality
- Floral Impact
- Landscaped Areas
- Urban Forestry
- Environmental Initiatives
- Celebrating Heritage
- Overall impression
- Best Idea
Each community plans a driving tour through town that highlights the unique elements within their community and presents their greatest assets. The judges will stay in Lakeside for a minimum of two nights and will enjoy a traditional Chautauqua experience. After their tour and stay in Lakeside, the judges will write a detailed evaluation emphasizing the community’s strengths and listing areas for possible improvements. Lakeside last entered America in Bloom in 2012 and received a 3/5 Bloom Rating.
Ahead of their visit, the community is encouraged to work together to make their gardens and homes look spectacular. Let’s collaborate as one by showing our pride in our historic structures through colorful plants and a clean environment. You can start now by getting ideas and visiting the AIB website, americain-bloom.org/home.
We are proud to dedicate this year’s America in Bloom application to Lakeside’s beloved Master Gardener, Loretta Wilken. Since starting in 2013 as Lakeside’s first Master Gardener, Loretta has led a significant effort to enhancing the community. Her love and passion for Lakeside and its grounds are deeply appreciated and we are pleased to be able to honor her work and dedication to Lakeside’s blooms, parks and natural spaces ahead of her retirement early next year.
