Essex CIB Committee announces 2016 Front Yard and Balcony Contest

The Essex Communities in Bloom (CIB) Committee invites you to enter the 2016 Front Yard and Balcony Contest by nominating yourself, a friend, a neighbour, or any beautiful front garden or balcony you notice as you travel through the Town of Essex.

Submissions can be made by simply emailing a photo to [email protected]. Please provide information on the person or property and use the subject line “2016 Front Yard and Balcony Contest.”

Nomination forms are also available on the Town of Essex website, at Town Hall, at Town of Essex recreation facilities, and at other select locations.

“Communities in Bloom is a national program that the Town of Essex proudly participates in each year,” says CIB Committee Chair Paul Tonon.

The Essex CIB Committee actively pursues projects that enhance and beautify the community, including the Legacy Tree Planting Program that saw six new trees planted at six elementary schools in Essex on Earth Day.

The annual Front Yard and Balcony Contest is designed to encourage residents and businesses to maintain and enhance their properties. Entries are evaluated on a 5-Bloom scale and 5-Bloom property owners are recognized at a special appreciation night which will take place this September.

“It’s easy to participate,” says Tonon. “It’s simply a matter of taking pride in your property and sharing your efforts with the community. Plus, it also gives residents an opportunity to nominate someone else who deserves recognition for their efforts.”

Entries in the contest are judged based on five criteria: curb appeal, tidiness and maintenance, variation and balance, stimulation of senses, and originality. The deadline for this year’s contest is Friday, July 15. Judging begins shortly thereafter.

To find out more, visit the Town of Essex website and search for Communities in Bloom.