For Immediate Release
October 15, 2012
West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation Earn 5 Blooms and Special Mention in National Communities in Bloom Competition
The District of West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation, partnering in the 2012 National Edition of Communities in Bloom, received a 5 out of 5 Bloom rating at the Awards Ceremony October 13 in Edmonton, Alberta. Special Mention was also given for Westbank First Nation’s expanded art program.
Following their evaluation of the community in July, volunteer judges Evelyn Alemanni, (Elfin Forest, California) and Jim Baird, (Rothesay, New Brunswick) wrote:
“Congratulations to West Kelowna/Westbank First Nation on your six years of participation in the Communities in Bloom program and for consistently achieving a prestigious five-bloom rating. What a tribute to the hard work and dedication of your “In Bloom” committee, your elected officials and your legions of passionate volunteers. What sets West Kelowna/Westbank First Nation apart from other communities is the tight collaboration and cooperation of the communities, something not often seen in other towns.
“The Westbank First Nation has commissioned local artists to undertake a number of significant works which are prominently displayed throughout the community. These works celebrate the distinctive Syilx culture of the BC Interior. The prominent and public location of the sculptures makes them accessible to the whole community. A massive N'ha-a-ilk (Ogopogo of Okanagan Lake) is being installed adjacent to the main highway arterial in the community. Outstanding use of art in a rapidly growing community,” wrote the judges.
West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation compete in the 20,001 to 50,000 population category.
Communities in Bloom is a national organization dedicated to the promotion of green spaces in community settings. Within the actual context of climate changes and environmental concerns, communities involved in the Communities in Bloom program can be proud of their efforts, which provide real and meaningful environmental solutions and benefit all of society. For more information visit www.communitiesinbloom.ca.