‘Bloom’ judges check out Sun Rivers

NEWS/ COMMUNITY — Two Communities in Bloom judges will tour Sun Rivers for a look at how it compares to others in the national competition for communities with populations between 1,001 and 5,000.

The judges will be shown the Sun Rivers Community Garden, a Dedication Garden and ceremonial Earth Day tree planting site as well as the entire community. They’ll be welcomed at the Secqepemc Museum and Heritage Park complete with the Sage Hill Singers.

While Kamloops has received national attention for its achievements in the Communities in Bloom competition, Sun Rivers has been winning awards of its own since 2009, getting five blooms last year and special mention for water conservation in the landscape, plus an outstanding achievement award for tidiness.

“The sense of belonging within the community and participation in community events has strengthened as the community has evolved,” said community administrator Karri Loadman, co-chair of the Sun Rivers entry.

“Sun Rivers has benefitted immensely by embracing the CIB principles. Sun Rivers is all about building community.”

The judges will be looking at tidiness, environmental awareness, heritage conservation, urban forestry, landscaping and floral displays. Their visit wraps up on Saturday.