Summer 2022 Beautification Award Winners
By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
La Grande – (Release from The City of La Grande) The home of Randal and Ike Rock, 708 20th Street has been selected for the City of La Grande summer beautification award. The Rocks have lived in their home near the corner of Adams Avenue and 20th Street since 1968. The lovingly maintained home and front yard provide the backdrop for the lavish hanging baskets and containers that create an oasis of color. “Chicken manure compost is the key” to beautiful flowers, said Rock, “along with regular watering and deadheading. We enjoy the gardening.”
The award for a commercial property went to Jenesis Salon, next door at 710 20th Street. The business owner, Jenny Coles, has operated the salon at this location since 2015. The combination of beautiful container plantings, plus colorful awnings, a decorative bench and attractive signage creates a welcoming entryway. “Independent contractor Jodi Hafer starts all the flowers from seed,” said Coles. Hafer also started the plants for their neighbors, the Rocks.
The purpose of the Beautification Awards Program is to recognize residential and commercial properties that add to the beauty and diversity of La Grande’s environment. Nominations for this award are made by members of the La Grande Landscape and Forestry Commission, city employees, and citizens. The awards are given seasonally, spring, summer and fall. The award criteria includes: landscaping that integrates color, texture, seasonal diversity and appropriate use of hardscapes and space, landscaping which promotes resource conservation, wildlife habitat and/or food production, and owners that have overcome special circumstances. Nominations for the fall beautification award can be sent to trees@cityolagradnde.org or call the Urban Forestry Division at 541-663-1952.
