In 2010 Mission could have an opportunity to become a Communities in Bloom national competitor. The criteria for qualification are five blooms, a score over 82 per cent overall and achievement of first place in Mission’s population category (20,001 to 50,000). Are we ready to “go national?” Let’s examine our chances.

Our accomplishments have been considerable. In 2004, a small organizing committee went to district council for support and has now grown into a registered society. Coordination of many groups and individual efforts are focused on making Mission a more vibrant place to live. In the words of E.S. "Ted" Blowes, former Chairman of the National Communities in Bloom Board, “Many municipalities are transforming into proud communities where people want to live, not by necessity, but by choice.”

All this effort has resulted in three years of “four bloom” recognition, and provincial awards for Community Involvement in 2007 and for Heritage Conservation efforts in 2008. Our “Five Blooms” in 2008 came from an 82.3 per cent average score over eight evaluation categories.

However, there are some less than vibrant spots throughout the district where a splash of paint, regular weeding and garbage control could make a big difference. For example, Best Western’s landscaping is colourless, with the exception of yellow dandelions at the Hurd/Lougheed corner. Downtown, hard working volunteers “painted the town,” but a few Railway Avenue occupants have not reciprocated with minor repairs to complete the facelift.

Another situation that cries out for remediation is the constant re-appearance of litter. Despite the efforts of Adopt-A-Block, several larger franchises like McDonald’s and Dairy Queen, and the Downtown Business Association, litter is a recurring blight. Individual responsibility for litter prevention is lacking.

On the positive side, the Prospera Mall has gained some colorful foliage and Mission Automotive on Wardrop glows with new white paint and blue signage. Have you seen the stunning “wild” flowers appearing on the southern side of the Lougheed in front of “Storage for Your Life?” That’s low maintenance but effective landscaping!

Do we have a chance for the nationals? In our favour is the fact that Mission is the only entrant this year in the 20,001 to 50,000 population category. I know that hundreds of local citizens, community groups, 145 local competition entrants, District employees, and C in B committee members have done their part. National recognition could be a powerful tourism magnet. Are we ready?

Keep blooming, Mission!

Heather Stewart volunteers with the Mission Communities in Bloom Society