Letter From the Chair

We did it! I am so proud to be leading Communities in Bloom forward in anticipation of once again competing in the National event. It is gratifying to reflect on our success. We see this success in the increased pride of our community and in our collective and individual efforts to beautify and celebrate our wonderful city. Communities in Bloom has given us a ‘springboard’ to elevate our community will and purpose and to showcase for all of Canada how Peterborough shines.

Peterborough is truly a community that Blooms. In 2005 and 2006, the Communities in Bloom judges who visited our city remarked on our incredible green canopy, the outpouring of volunteer support, the enduring legacy and care taken to preserve our natural and cultural heritage. In 2006 and 2008, the City received a Five Bloom Award during the National Competition and the highest Award in the judging category Natural and Cultural Heritage Conservation in both 2005 and 2006. In 2008, the City was awarded the prestigeous National Youth Achievement award a very satisfying decision as the Chair was able to speak at one of the workshops at it’s National Symposium on how a city can involve their youth in so many aspects of city life.  This is an exceptional accomplishment that would not been possible without the dedication of all the community volunteers and sponsors, support from City Council and the hard work of City Staff.

As a Friend to Communities in Bloom in 2007, 2009 and now in 2010, we continue to benefit from support by individual citizens and corporate groups who have come forward to establish new Community Gardens, plant trees along residential streets and participate in the planning and development of parks and advancing a new Vision for Parks, Recreation and Culture. Our Council adopted new and higher Waste Diversion Standards and diligently promoted Natural Lawn Care programs and other sustainable projects. These are only some examples of the contribution that Communities in Bloom has made in helping us to learn together to enhance and safeguard our common future. These are all treasures that we value.

Chair Yvonne Coveney-Boyd presents a certificate for the Communities in Bloom School Poster Competition		It starts at a young age. School children learn about Communities in Bloom. Newfound ideas and attitudes will last a lifetime in helping communities everywhere to bloom!

In 2009 and 2010, the City became a 'Friend' in Communities in Bloom with the Committee continuing with several projects including the annual Garden Competition, a New Youth Garden planting at the Centennial Museum which will be honoured with a plaque commemorating the event and in cooperation with Cathy Dueck, the organizing chair from the local Green Up community of a new tree register.

Peterborough continues to show great enthusiasm for making the City bloom – the gardens have been spectacular, certainly living up to our slogan Peterborough it’s a Natural.