Communities in Bloom judges left North Bay impressed after a visit on Monday.
"I certainly see the passion of the volunteers and the passion of the city staff,” judge Christine Isaac remarked. “It has been a busy but beautiful day.”
Isaac and fellow judge Colleen Stockford visited the city as part of the prestigious competition, aimed at "promoting nurturing environmental sustainability, enhancements of green spaces, and heritage conservation in cultural and natural environments encompassing municipal, residential, commercial, and institutional spaces."
"Seeing the pride each organization took in showcasing their incredible work was inspiring. North Bay's commitment to improving life for everyone is evident, and we're proud of all the groups involved,” said Sarah McGowan, Communities in Bloom committee member. “This is just a glimpse of the great things happening here."
See: North Bay under Communities in Bloom national scrutiny
The judges met with members of the Communities in Bloom (CiB) committee on Tuesday morning, including Clean Green Beautiful members, and city councillor Jamie Lowery, and city staff. They provided initial feedback on the presentation and efforts and had the opportunity to ask questions.
The awards ceremony will be held in October in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, where winners will be announced and evaluations shared. The judges are scheduled to tour Capreol, another participating community today.
During their visit, the judges explored a variety of notable locations, including:
- Canadore College and Nipissing University (also featuring North Bay Hydro, Ontario Northland, NUSU and the North Bay Regional Health Centre)
- Helicopter Tour: Provided by Helicopters Canada, offering a stunning aerial view of the city's landscapes.
- Miskwaadesi with the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre
- Starter Nursery with Trees for Nipissing and North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority
- Memorial Park/Cenotaph: A visit with veterans Bernie Saari and Jim Thompson.
- Northern Pines
- Senator Gordon's House Tour with Nester Prisco.
- Dionne Quint's Home: Courtesy of the Dionne Quints Heritage Board.
- Friends of Rotary Splash Pad & Playground and North Bay Museum.
- Downtown North Bay
- Lee Park - Kiwanis Playground and Fitness Centre.
- coworking176 (176 Lakeshore): An innovative co-working space
- North Bay Heritage Train & Carousel
- Native Species Arboretum and Waterfront Garden Tour: Featuring the Heritage Gardeners and Warriors of Hope.
- Community Organization Showcase: Featuring Discovery Routes, OutLoud, and Les Compagnons
- Chief Commanda II Cruise: A special outing for volunteers
