Cade to be honored for contributions

 

Transforming the look of Ironton one tree at a time continues among the missions of Ironton In Bloom as the organization plants more trees next week for Arbor Day.

“It is part of our urban streetscape plan,” Ralph Kline, IIB member, said. “One, it is visual. It provides shade for activities and trees basically cleanse the air. It is multi-purpose on why we are trying to use trees.”

The actual Arbor Day is April 24, but IIB will have ceremonies a day earlier, starting at Memorial Hall at 4 p.m.

There, two linden trees will be planted at the back of the historic hall where a pocket park is being developed.

“The little leaf linden tree is recommended for an urban environment,” Kline said. “They get larger than ornamental trees and provide shade. But they also have the smaller leaves that disintegrate in the fall.”

After that ceremony, the group will go to the pocket park at Second and Railroad streets to plant a third linden to recognize Lawrence County Engineer Doug Cade and his wife, Ruth, for their work with IIB supplying and maintaining the downtown flower pots through their Mamaw’s Nursery.

This summer Cade will take the post of deputy engineer in Hancock County.

“It is a thank you from Ironton In Bloom,” Kline said.

This is the fourth year for IIB to add trees to the downtown. The first was at the Farmers’ Market followed by lilac trees on Central Street between Third and Fourth streets and on at Etna Park.

The organization also has a list of recommended trees for residential and business areas that is available by contacting IIB at irontoninbloom@gmail.com.

Also this month IIB is starting the yard of month for residences and businesses. Those wishing to nominate a yard, can contact IIB via email.