The first 2011 Ironton In Bloom Yard of the Month Award goes to Aaron and Casey Hankins, 2203 S. 10th St.

Both teach school in the area and bought the house within the last year. Casey says Aaron does most of the yard work with a little help from her.

They used a large amount of varicolored pansies this spring to fill in among permanent plantings and to brighten their yard while it is still too early to plant for summer.

Ironton In Bloom urges everyone to keep an eye out for yards with outstanding floral displays.

“A yard doesn’t have to be large and fancy, Judy Sanders, Ironton In Bloom’s residential chairman explained. “We’re looking for those that make the best use of the space they have, whether it be large or small, to enhance their neighborhood.”

The volunteer organization welcomes nominations for May Yard of the Month.

If anyone would like to nominate their own yard or that of another resident, email the address of the nominee to irontoninbloom@zoominternet.net or send the address to Ironton In Bloom, Box 4599, Ironton, OH 45638. Nominations must be postmarked by May 15.