America in Bloom national judges pleased with Henderson County, offer tips

More on last week's visit by national judges for America in Bloom, from the Times-News:

America in Bloom judge Jack Clasen said he found hidden gems and a lot of community pride in Henderson County on Friday at the tail end of a two-day tour of the area.

"In Raleigh, it's got a good reputation, there's no question. Everybody is always praising this area, but there's nothing wrong with national recognition," he said, grinning under the shade of a large tree at Bullington Gardens.

Last week marked Henderson County's first visit from judges in the nationwide beautification program America in Bloom.

The nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, now in its 13th year, works to cultivate community pride by helping different groups work together on common goals of preservation and beautification. Judges — with horticultural insight — tour locations, provide recommendations for improvements and recognize the efforts of participating communities through AIB's national award program. . .

He recalled the sense of community pride he felt touring the former 9-hole golf course set to become the Park at Flat Rock on Thursday.

"The number of people who are looking at that golf course and saying, 'Ok, I'm willing to help out and to get involved,' some people financially and some people saying, 'I'd like to be on the committee to work on it' — That's really great when you've got that kind of spirit. It's a can-do attitude," he said.

Clasen has been with America in Bloom since its inception, touring the country in visits to cities and towns that show a side of the nation he wishes others could see. . .

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