Lewes in Bloom celebrates international distinction
Lewes in Bloom members celebrated being named the most beautiful medium-sized town in the world at a breakfast gathering Oct. 12 with local and state elected officials and the chamber of commerce.
The all-volunteer organization learned of its triumph at the Communities in Bloom Symposium on Sept. 29 in Alberta, Canada. The city defeated five other towns, including a 13th century Croatian city, to win the high honor.
“Lewes is truly first in flowers in the First State,” said Warren Golde, Lewes in Bloom founder. “This is the toughest competition in the world. Eleven countries have programs and over 4,000 cities have entered over the years.”
As a result of its triumph, Lewes in Bloom has been invited to participate next spring in a public garden project in Cervia, Italy, where representatives from the organization and other invited towns will show off their garden design skills in an international display. Golde announced the prestigious invitation at the Oct. 12 celebration. He said Lewes is the first town outside of Europe to be invited to participate.
“We are so thrilled to have won this award, and we now look forward to our next adventure in Italy,” said Lewes in Bloom Co-President Marilyn Vai. “This award belongs to Lewes, an amazing place to live.”
To celebrate Lewes in Bloom’s accomplishments, Lewes Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Betsy Reamer announced a Lewes garden will be featured on the cover of the 2019 visitor’s guide.
Sen. Ernie Lopez, R-Lewes, and Rep. Steve Smyk, R-Milton, were also on hand and presented Golde with a tribute.
Lewes has previously won America in Bloom honors in 2002, 2005, 2010 and 2015, but this is the first time it’s entered an international competition.
Nick Roth is the news editor. He has been with the Cape Gazette since 2012, previously covering town beats in Milton and Lewes. In addition to serving on the editorial board and handling page layout, Nick is responsible for the weekly Delaware History in Photographs feature and enjoys writing stories about the Cape Region’s history. Prior to the Cape Gazette, Nick worked for the Delmarva Media Group, including the Delaware Wave, Delaware Coast Press and Salisbury Daily Times. He also contributed to The News Journal. Originally from Boyertown, Pa., Nick attended Shippensburg University in central Pennsylvania, graduating in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He’s won several MDDC awards during his career for both writing and photography. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, going to the beach with his family and cheering for Philadelphia sports teams.
