2. explore www.AmericaInBloom.org for complete information about the program.

3. a typical organizing committee is comprised of dedicated and resourceful local citizens who are interested in improving their home town Should include: member of municipal council, members of associations, businesses, organizations interested in horticulture, heritage and improving community life, volunteers, media

4. contact municipal departments (parks and recreation, economic development, tourism) about America in Bloom participation communicate your municipality’s responsibilities, including: - support of town council - encourage community involvement - prepare for the judging in April-July - provide lodging for one to three nights (depending on community size) for two judges - provide transportation for the judges

5. online at www.AmericaInBloom.org registration deadline – February 28 your committee receives the AIB Registration Package which includes everything you need to get started, including: - evaluation grid (what the judges look for) - how to organize an effective working committee - ideas and suggestions for a local contest involving the entire community - examples of successful efforts from other communities

6. Inventory your community’s assets, interests, abilities, and existing enhancement programs in each of the eight criteria and link with them. Programs such as these can be an integral part of a community’s local effort and coincide nicely with America in Bloom.

7. keep it simple and focused for the first year develop promotional plans to: - encourage volunteers - inform the media - attract business partnerships - attract partnering organizations

8. Implementing your plans for community enhancement with your partners and volunteers is what America in Bloom is all about. These are also the moments of fun and dedication that you want to capture for the judges as well as the local media. Most importantly, this is where friendships, environmental awareness, and community pride take root and fully blossom.

9. prepare materials for the judges that reflect all criteria on the evaluation grid make good use of the time the judges are in your community judges’ tour and activities should take into account all of the categories on the evaluation grid

10. The annual America in Bloom Awards Ceremony is hosted in a different city each year and celebrates achievement in all participating communities. Everyone is invited! The National Symposium is an excellent chance to network, share your achievements, and learn from others.

11. The purpose of the America in Bloom contest is not just awards. The pride, fulfillment and community enhancement that results from participation in the program is the real reward. Even those communities that don't win an award win! Friendships form. Civic pride increases. Tourism booms. Property values go up. Vandalism goes down. Cultural exchanges begin. Beauty abounds. That is how you and America in Bloom “Plant pride in your community”.

12. www.AmericaInBloom.org aib@ofa.org America in Bloom Help Desk: (614) 487-1117