Past success in the high-profile Communities in Bloom program has put the City of Castlegar in ever-stiffer competition.
A strong showing nationally has put our "Crossroads of the Kootenays" into a mix with similarly sized communities in international locations. But there are still Canadian cities to contend against, such as Stettler and Jasper, Alberta, our close neighbour, Trail, and even Fogo Island which is situated off the coast of Newfoundland.
The judges take their work seriously, and they appreciate lower key getaways like the Sunday night barbecue they enjoyed with the local 'bloom brigade.'
Wish your community all the best in the judging. Winners will be recognized and awards presented in Charlottown, Prince Edward Island – September 17-20.