Note: America in Bloom judges will visit Bluffton July 19-20. To help viewers understand the Bloom judging process, each week on the Icon the Bluffton in Bloom board will describe one of the "Bloom" categories. Questions can be emailed to [email protected].

Did you know that two judges from America in Bloom will visit Bluffton on July 19-20 to evaluate what kind of town we live in? They will be judging Bluffton on several categories.

One category is Community Vitality, which is defined as:  “Policies, programs, and outdoor activities and facilities that lead to a vibrant community and a sense of well-being. Includes parks, playgrounds, dog parks, sports fields, water activities, trails, and other outdoor recreational opportunities.”

How would you rank Bluffton on these Community Vitality items?

• Farmers' Markets are available
• Community gardening sites are being used
• Master plan in place for public green space and parks
• Outdoor performances/events for art, dance, theatre, music, and/or cinema
• Volunteer involvement in planning, funding, and/or and implementing civic
events such as organized runs, walks, etc.

Last year was the first year that Bluffton participated in the America in Bloom
program, earning three out of five possible blooms.

This year, Bluffton in Bloom has been created to make Bluffton a more welcoming village for our residents and neighbors through charitable contributions that benefit our heritage, gardens, parks, trees, clean environment, health and fitness, schools and businesses, ensuring future community vitality and prosperity.

Bluffton in Bloom board
Bloom board members are Tom Schmidt, chair, Nancy Benroth, Denise Fett, Becky Ramey and Mark Simmons. Jesse Blackburn, village administrator, is the village liason to the board.