Two America in Bloom judges will set their sights on Wesson this month.

The professional volunteer judges will visit Wesson Thursday. It’s the town’s first year to participate in the beautification program.

A $12,500 grant from America in Bloom has been used for beautification efforts in Wesson, such as adding trees and flowers in various places around the town.

“We are very excited about receiving this grant,” town clerk Angela Hester said. “It’s meant a lot to the people in town. Everyone is enjoying watching the town grow.”

Judges Karin Rindal and Cheryl Corson will evaluate the town’s efforts in the areas of flowers, landscaped areas, environmental efforts and overall impression.

Rindal is a businesswoman who focuses on manufacturing and government. Corson is a landscape architect, writer and teacher.

“We have plans to beautify the rest of the town as time goes on,” Hester said.

To date, more than 250 communities from 45 states have participated in the program. Awards will be announced October 3-5 at AIB’s National Symposium & Awards Celebration, held this year in St. Charles, Illinois.

America in Bloom is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote nationwide beautification programs and community involvement through the use of environmental enhancements such as flowers and trees. The organization provides educational programs, resources and friendly competition between communities across the country.

Story by Gracie Byrne