By Brittney Whipple

Keep Blount Beautiful (KBB)  is accepting nominations for the 2019 BRAVO! Awards! What are the BRAVO! Awards? These awards praise local businesses, organizations, and public property for their landscaping and beautification efforts. KBB also recognizes properties that have creatively re-used/re-designed an existing building and the sustainable stewardship of properties in Blount County. Nominations are open to the public and based on the three award categories below.

BRAVO! Beautification: This award is given to properties for their landscaping and beautification efforts. The landscaping must be mature and add improvement to the site.

Reuse/Redesign: This award is for a property that has creatively reused or redesigned an existing building. The remodel must be complete.

Sustainable Stewardship: This award is given to a business or organization that strives to incorporate sustainable business practices or policies, and/or renewable, sustainable, or energy-efficient spaces.

Examples of Sustainable Stewardship include businesses and organizations that have a recycling program, practice effective stormwater management practices, or have sustainable workplace policies such as banning disposable cups and bottles. Other examples include businesses and organizations with sustainable building features such as large windows, energy efficient lighting, water efficient fittings, solar panels, or sufficient green space compared to paved space.

The BRAVO! Awards will be announced at the annual award luncheon on June 6th. This event is invite-only. KBB will announce award winners to the public after the luncheon. We look forward to your nomination!

Nominations are due by May 3rd. Private residencies are not considered for any award. Nominate a BRAVO!