Nominations are now being accepted for the America in Bloom, John R. Holmes III Community Champion Award.

This honor is to recognize an individual who exemplifies community leadership through actions that reflect the mission of America in Bloom. The award recipient, who must be from a city that has participated or is currently participating in the program, will have demonstrated a vision and selfless commitment to moving the community forward.

The selection committee will use the following criteria to evaluate each nominee:

•Community leadership

•Ingenuity/innovation

•Achievement/impact of actions

•Ability to rally citizen volunteers

•Ability to engage business/garner sponsorships

•Ability to engage city government

•Champion for AIB- in the community and beyond

To nominate someone, please complete the online form (including a 500-word maximum essay). The form is available at https://ofa.wufoo.com/forms/community-champion-award/. Nominations will be accepted until July 31.

This year’s award will be presented during the 2013 America in Bloom Symposium & Awards Program, September 19-21 in Orlando, Florida. The symposium is open to all who may have an interest in AIB activities. To learn more about the award and other AIB activities, visit www.americainbloom.org.