Civic pride is evident as the town of Eston prepares for the Communities in Bloom (CIB) judges to visit this week.

Last year the small community located just 60km southeast of Kindersley won their category for a town with a population of 1001-2000. The town also received a special mention for Enthusiastic Communities in Bloom with a committee that has been running for 18 years.

Sandy King, CIB representative for Eston, said they would love to win again this year but whatever happens, happens, as there are variables that can sometimes be out of their control. However, everyone has pulled together, including help from the town and residents alike to be ready for when judges, Sheila and Roger Nordick, visit their town on Thursday.

“Most people think it’s all about the floral,” said Sheila Nordick as she clarified what it is they will be looking for from the town when judging them for the event. There are six areas of criteria including, tidiness, environmental action, heritage conservation, urban forestry, landscape and floral displays.

Nordick added that judges from the previous years will also make recommendations to the town for improvements for the following years, she said they will also be looking at these past recommendations to see what, if any, were able to be accomplished.

King made mention of the fact that regardless of winning or losing, it is a great event that allows the community to come together and stand proud for what they have accomplished.

The judges are set to arrive in Eston on Thursday, July 26, where they will take note of all the points based on the criteria set our by Saskatchewan’s Communities in Bloom program. Results will be announced later in fall.