The registration deadline for this program program, February 28, is creeping up! The initiative calls for communities across the country to show off what their town has to offer.
Participants will be visited by the contest’s professional judges who evaluate towns on four cornerstones: environmental awareness, heritage preservation, horticultural efforts and community involvement. Over the summer, judges spend two days in each town for one-on-one consultations and coaching. Then, they provide written evaluations that highlight where communities excel and where they could benefit from further initiatives.
Participating towns boast increased community participation and civic pride, and gain an improved environment in which to live, work and play. An extra plus? Town beautification can boost property values.
In September, contestants attend the 2012 Symposium and Awards Program in Fayetteville, Arkansas to network with other communities, attend educational ceremonies and see their community recognized. According to contest chairman Jack Clasen, “Our towns and cities raise the bar of excellence every year.”