Communities In Bloom judges tour Baldur
Communities in Bloom judges Hugh Skinner and Shirley Kalyniuk were recently in Baldur to embrace the town and be shown why Baldur is a 5 Bloom Community!
In preparation for the judges visit, much advance planning had to be done, including the compilation of the Town of Baldur Community Profile 2024 booklet that was given to the judges, outlining many key points the judges would be focusing on.
The updated booklet is brimming with news and information, perfectly detailing a plethora of information about Baldur.
The Judge’s day in Baldur was very busy from start to finish!
After a hearty breakfast at The Baldur Bar and Grill, a short meeting was held at the RM of Argyle office with several Municipal Officials, and then it was off to begin an intensive tour of town starting with the Baldur Minor Ball Park, campground, and accessible playground.
Doug Elliot graciously shared a tour of the honey house located on the east side of Baldur, explaining the many steps taken to harvest the liquid gold that bees so masterfully create.
Moving on, the xeriscaping project at the east Baldur sign was explored, and although this project is still fairly new, it is coming along fabulously.
Also visited were the butterfly gardens at Baldur School, and the newly developed Food Forest, with the morning being rounded out with a delightful Pembina Coop Tour.
After lunch, the Baldur Early Learning Centre, South Avenue upgrades and the Waste Disposal Grounds were visited, with Bill Fierens offering insight into the growth and changes happening within the Disposal Grounds.
Then it was on to the paving project taking place at Oak Creek Road, the Fire Hall that is hosting the new rainwater collection site and a tour of the Beauchamp Church. Judge Shirley Kalyniuk made special mention of the Beauchamp Church tour, appreciating that a private owner has ensured that the rich history and significance of the church is maintained. She was pleased to hear that the owners have opened the doors to individuals and groups wanting to host a variety of events.
Yards chosen to receive the Scott’s Canada Miracle-Gro awards were then taken in followed by Veteran Park and a visit to the Argyle Museum to explore the Heritage Legacy Project, created in a joint effort by Bob and Shirley Conibear and Sandra Collins.
After this whirlwind tour, the judges were able to relax and deliberate at the RM of Argyle Municipal Office before being treated to a delectable pulled pork supper at the Argyle Park food booth.
Judge Shirley Kalyniuk thanked the Communities in Bloom Committee for their hospitality and attention to detail. “You have so many volunteers! For a town the size of Baldur that is amazing. Without volunteers, as a community, it is nearly impossible to function.” She was overwhelmed with the beauty of Baldur and the number of amenities available.
Judge Hugh Skinner was pleased with how well Baldur had bounced back since his last visit; the year a vicious hail storm maimed and destroyed many of the trees, gardens and other installations in Baldur. He shared that the tour was wonderful and very much enjoyed the Heritage Lot Project. He suggested that QR codes be attached to the sites, allowing for a further investigation of each. Hugh went on to say that Baldur is a beautiful town and he had a great time while visiting.
Touring hosts Tammy McIntosh and Hedy Joycey both said they really enjoyed the day. The number of additional stops really helped showcase Baldur. They also wanted to thank everyone who pitched in and helped in any capacity. All the effort was so greatly appreciated.
Baldur really is one of the most beautiful and vibrant towns in southern Manitoba.
PHOTO CAPTION: The Baldur Flower Committee and the Communities in Bloom judges paused for a photo at Argyle Centennial Park: (l. to r.) Darcy Dearsley, Judge Shirley Kalyniuk, Tammy McIntosh, Laurie Glenn-Martindale, Hedy Joycey, Brenda Gudnason, Judge Hugh Skinner and Randy Desrochers. PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK
