Jefferson residents are invited show their “radical hospitality” and community spirit by entering the “RAGBRAI yard contest” sponsored by the Greene County Master Gardeners and the RAGBRAI hospitality committee.

First place in the “neighborhoods with all the bells & whistles” division will receive a block party for all of the families involved. The winner of the individual yard division “a yard to whistle at” will receive a $50 gift certificate to local greenhouses. Application deadline is July 15 with forms available at Greene County Extension office, Greene County Community Center, Bomgaars, Pamida, Don’s Ace Hardware, Squirrels Nest, Floral Designs by Jean, Fudges and Krieger’s florists. The form will also be available at www.jeffersonragbrai.com . Judging will take place on July 18 and 19.

Organizers stressed that the contest is about sprucing up, having a theme and displaying support for the event not just about gardening. The use of wind chimes and bells of all sorts is encouraged to support the “Jefferson-All the Bells & Whistles” theme.

Neighborhood entrants must include a minimum of four yards with at least three contiguous. With larger groups at least 75 percent need to be contiguous.

The entries will be judged on creative use of theme, positive promotion of Jefferson, tidiness of property and tastefulness.
Call Lois Brant at 515-386-5249 for answers to questions.