SLO in Bloom was a winner as it took home an Outstanding Achievement Award in the Celebrating Heritage category on October 5, 2019 in St. Charles, Illinois where participants from all across the country and Canada gathered to network and celebrate their community’s achievements.
SLO in Bloom was also a finalist in the category of Water Warriors and in their population class. America in Bloom judge Sue Amatangelo believes “In my opinion, it is bigger than winning the population award as you have excelled over every community that was entered into AIB, big or small, in 2019.” Meg Whitmer another AIB judge added “I enjoyed hearing about all the great things you’re doing in SLO and hope I get to visit someday.” In addition, Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum was included the 2019 Annual ‘Best Ideas’ issue for their collaboration with the Library of Congress to document the oral histories of SLO residents and their time in the military.
SLO in Bloom is one of the newest Chapters of the America in Bloom (AIB) Awards Program joining past participants Arroyo Grande and Morro Bay to represent the Central Coast. SLO in Bloom serves and promotes volunteerism in the Historic Downtown/Railroad District in the city of San Luis Obispo.
This year 46 communities registered for the America in Bloom Awards program. And each city was judged on 7 criteria: Community Vitality, Flowers, Landscaped Areas, Urban Forestry, Environmental Efforts, Celebrating Heritage and Overall Impression. America in Bloom was founded in 2001 by horticultural professionals who wanted to promote nationwide beautification projects, connect and educate people on the benefits of plants, trees, and flowers.
SLO in Bloom’s motto is “Bringing People and Flowers Together” and most importantly, we’re champions for community volunteerism. We understand, that community involvement by encouraging the use of flowers, plants, trees, and exercise via gardening and volunteerism are all life style enhancements that benefit the residents of San Luis Obispo.