Homeowners and business owners can take advantage of Demopolis in Bloom, a full day of classes teaching attendees various beautification techniques for their property on March 21. Classes will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Demopolis City Civic Center.

There will be a lunch break between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Lunch will not be provided. Participants also do not have to attend the full day of classes or be residents of Demopolis to join.

The daylong list of classes is meant to help residents “keep Demopolis looking good,” according to Barbara Blevins, horticulturist and public works superintendent.

“We have people coming through town all the time. We want it to look good,” Blevins said.

Door prizes will also be given out during classes. Participants will have a chance to win things like gift certificates, candles, t-shirts, flowers and shrubs.

“Almost every business in town has participated in some way as far as the door prizes,” Blevins said.

The following day, there will be an invitation-only reception where Bloom Awards will be given out to deserving residents, business owners and volunteers.

There are two winners from each district per quarter. In all, the Bloom Awards honors 40 people per year.

“We recognize them for what they’ve done. I think it’s very important to recognize the volunteers,” Blevins said.

Bloom Awards are given to individuals whose beautification efforts improve the city. Whether it is keeping things clean, planting a beautiful garden or helping others with lawn care, Blevins said that they are eligible for a Bloom Award.

“Everyone’s making a difference in their own space,” Blevins said.

Demopolis in Bloom began seven years ago when the city joined America in Bloom, which promoted community enhancement through flowers, plants and trees.

To nominate someone for a Bloom Award or for more information about Demopolis in Bloom, call the Public Works department at 289-3879.

Nominations can also be brought to city hall or a member of the city council. Nominations for the first quarter of 2018 must be made before April. Blevins said that nominations can be made for more than one person or for one person multiple times.

(This article originally appeared in the Wednesday, March 14 issue of the Demopolis Times.)