With the weather cooperating the Communities in Bloom in conjunction with the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce held a garden party at the Town Hall Park on July 17 instead of their annual garden tours. “We wanted to showcase the thriving downtown core and new businesses,” said Communities in Bloom member Kim McMinis. Throughout the evening attendees had the opportunity to purchase a beef on a bun for $5 and a piece of strawberry shortcake topped with fresh strawberries from Cruther’s Berry farm for an additional $5 while listening to local entertainment by Donna Eyben, Kerri Pullyblank, and Shane Thomas. Also in attendance at the party offering items for sale were Vermilion Community Art Club, Vermilion Quilters Guild, Vermilion Pottery Guild and woodworking from Paul Yaceyko. Three draws for the garden competition was also made with each winner receiving a $50 gift certificate from either F’Laura n Company Greenhouse, Lawn and Gardens or Home Hardware. Four local businesses Uniquely U Styles, Vermilion Jewellers, Elevations and the Men’s Den also offered specials for the occasion. “This is our special fundraising event for the year and would like to thank the Town for being our host and for supplying the chairs, tables, and the piano. We would also like to thank everyone involved. This coming week is the Fair and I would encourage everyone to have a look around their neighbourhood to make sure our town is nice and tidy before the Fair comes,” said McMinis.