Summer brings visitors to the Bainbridge in Bloom garden tour for an assortment of reasons. Some love getting an insider’s view of the exquisite, sometimes hidden spaces that make Bainbridge such a gem. Others are passionate gardeners who seek ideas and inspiration for planting and design. Still others grab a friend and make the trip to experience the joy and fun of a reliably high-caliber garden tour on a gorgeous July afternoon.

What not all patrons realize is that Bainbridge in Bloom is also the nonprofit Arts & Humanities Council’s most important annual fundraiser. We use proceeds from the garden tour and from the Evening in Bloom dinner/auction for an array of purposes throughout the year: to engage young people in a full range of quality arts and humanities programs; to provide professional development, support, and recognition for members of our cultural community; and to engage people beyond the island in the creative mélange that is Bainbridge.

This year, I’m delighted to announce that Bloom proceeds rose to a new level: we received $52,000 in net contributions for our island-wide programs, services, and collaborations.

Our success would not have been possible without the volunteers, garden owners, artists, musicians, vendors, docents, and master gardeners who so generously and tirelessly offered their time and efforts to the event, nor would it be possible without you, the Bainbridge Island community. On behalf of the board and staff, thank you for helping the arts and humanities bloom on Bainbridge Island.

Mark your calendars now: the 2012 tour is set for July 13, 14 and 15.

Barbara Sacerdote, Executive Director

Bainbridge Island Arts & Humanities Council