Mayor's Garden Contest Announced
by Mary Hines
April 21, 2009
 Boston's green thumbs have until July 17 to register for Mayor Menino's 2009 Garden Contest presented by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and sponsors Comcast and the Boston Herald.
"Boston's amateur gardeners are justifiably proud of their accomplishments and this is our chance to thank them for what they contribute to the community," said Mayor Thomas M. Menino. "Their work beautifies our neighborhoods and helps make Boston a healthier and more livable city."
Launched 13 years ago as part of Mayor Menino's citywide beautification initiative, the contest recognizes gardeners who have landscaped, planted flowers, trees, and shrubs, and, in the process, beautified their own small piece of Boston.
Residents, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to nominate their own or a neighbor's garden, window box, or front, back, or side yard. Only gardens planted by amateur gardeners are eligible to take part in the contest. No professionally contracted work will be allowed to enter.
Entrants must submit photographs of their garden with an official entry form. Judges will use the photos to narrow the entrants to five finalists per category. Site visits by contest judges will determine the winners.
First place winners in eleven categories will receive the coveted "Golden Trowel" award from Mayor Menino, prize packages from HGTV, a one-year American Horticultural Society membership and more, all to be given out at an awards ceremony in late August.
To enter Mayor Menino's Garden Contest, gardeners may pick up entry forms at local Comcast Customer Payment Centers, Boston City Hall, Boston Community Centers, Boston Public Library branches, or the Boston Parks and Recreation Department at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, Roxbury.
Or, interested contestants may request entry forms by calling 617-961-3051. Applicants may also apply online or download a nomination form by visiting www.cityofboston.gov/parks/gardencontest.
The deadline for entries is Friday, July 17, at 5 p.m. |
