Sequim just barely missed top honors in the 2003 America in Bloom community beautification program.
The nonprofit organization this year awarded Sequim three out of five possible “blooms,”‘ or points earned through demonstrating aesthetic excellence, community involvement and preservation of cultural heritage.
City Clerk Karen Kuznek and Public Works Director Jim Bay attended the program’s awards ceremony, held Thursday through Sunday in Chicago.
Sequim was one of six participating cities in the population category of 5,000 or less.
The city of Lewes, Del., took first place with three blooms, earning special acknowledgement from judges Jeff McMann and Leslie Croyle for its floral displays.
McMann and Croyle spent several days in August touring Sequim.
Out of 35 entrants in all categories, only Sequim received special mention for its attention to environmental awareness.
Sequim teamed last year with Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, to earn four blooms in the program’s co-sponsor, Communities in Bloom.