Azalea Celebration Applications Being Accepted

Applications are now being accepted for the 16th Annual Azalea Celebration. Sponsored by WRAL-TV, MIX 101.5, and Keep North Carolina Clean & Beautiful along with funding from the A.J. Fletcher Foundation, the celebration gifts azaleas to non-profits for the beautification of their properties. Cuttings are taken from the plants in the WRAL-TV gardens and grown by Capitol Broadcasting's Property Management staff. Each year thousands of azaleas are awarded in this celebration.

Non-profits must sketch out the proposed use of the azaleas they request and explain how they will be used and maintained. A variety of azaleas are available including pink and purple low plants; pink, red, white and lavender with white medium plants; and pink, white and red tall plants.

This year, applications must be postmarked by September 5, 2001. Winners are selected from the applicant pool and notified later in September. The chosen recipients can pick up their plants on Awards Day, which will be Saturday, October 6, 2001.

The Annual Azalea Celebration promotes environmental education, beautification and stewardship. The program provides the opportunity for North Carolinians to work together to achieve enhanced community appearance.

For an application (Adobe Acrobat version) and additional information, visit WRAL.com.