Coshocton receives three blooms out of five in contest
COSHOCTON – It was mid-July when judges for the America in Bloom competition came to Coshocton to evaluate our progress. Coshocton finally learned the results from the efforts of so many volunteers in the community. Through the rating system, we did received three blooms out of five, but that was not enough to put Coshocton at the top. In our population category (7,001 – 12,000), Demopolis, Ala. won with a four bloom rating. Tarboro, N.C. was the other city in our category and they received three blooms.
Coshocton did get special mention in the Landscape division, but no other awards. Three other cities from Ohio received recognition. Gallipolis won in the Floral Display division, University of Findlay won in the Environmental division, and Belpre won the Community Involvement division. All three cities were in population categories smaller than Coshocton.
The America in Bloom Symposium was in Orlando, Fla. this year. Coshocton is Blooming was represented by Tim France, Deb Wallace, Bill Freund and Cindy Davitt. The symposium had a full itinerary which included an early behind the scene tour of Disney World, a guided walk through Wintergarden and Leu Gardens. Freund was nominated for the John R. Holmes III Community Champion Award. There were 11 nominees and the winner was Beverly Dunkle of Gallipolis.
Of the six criteria used for judging, Coshocton’s strong points were in the Floral Display and Heritage Preservation. The judges were impressed with efforts in Urban Forestry, led by Deb Wallace, and encouraged Coshocton is Blooming to continue with pursuing this program.
The Coshocton is Blooming committee is grateful to all the volunteers who helped with improvements in our town, from the hanging baskets to the cleanliness of your neighborhoods.
Visit the AIB website at www.americainbloom.org to view more results and pictures from the symposium. Committee members have received the judges’ 21 page evaluation. If you would like to view it, you can contact Connie Miller at 622-6569 and leave a message. She will send it to you via e-mail.
Category: Clubs & Organizations