America in Bloom announces 2013 winners

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- After months of waiting, top honors for the 2013 America in Bloom national awards program were announced at the annual awards held in Orlando, Fla. on Sept. 21.

America in Bloom executive director, Laura Kunkle, said, “America in Bloom is helping participants of all types achieve their potential. The accomplishments and progress shown by this year's towns and cities is remarkable.”

Participants judged on six criteria: overall impression, environmental awareness, heritage, urban forestry, landscape, and floral displays, across four sectors: municipal, residential, commercial, and community involvement. Eight population categories were evaluated by teams of two specially trained judges.

Click here for the full results.

Outstanding Achievement Awards
Washington, Mo. – Urban forestry
Holland, Mich. – Heritage preservation
Belpre, Ohio – Community involvement
Estes Park, Colo. – Landscaped areas
University of Findlay – Environmental efforts

Gallipolis, Ohio – Floral displays
Arroyo Grande, Calif. – Overall impression

Special Awards
Arroyo Grande, Calif. – Best historic restoration project
Holliston, Mass. – Best volunteer recognition program
Kent, Ohio – Best commercial landscape

YouTube Video Award – Huntington, W.Va.

Community Champion Award – Beverly Dunkle, Gallipolis, Ohio
Circle of Champions – new members are Echo, Ore. and Gallipolis, Ohio

Registrations for the 2014 national awards program can be submitted until February 28, 2014. Eligible participants include towns, cities, college and university campuses, business districts, military installations, and recognized neighborhoods of large cities.

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 enhancements. America in Bloom provides educational programs, resources, and the challenge of a friendly competition between participating communities across the country. For more information, visit www.americainbloom.org.