By Monty Siekerman

More hanging baskets will grace Main Street this year. And, ONU will do its part to add to the beauty of Main Street for pedestrians and motorists.

People like the grand floral display. The Village has had many positive comments about them since the project began two years ago. Each year the number of baskets has increased, thanks to generous donors.

The large, multicolored baskets are well cared for by Cheryl Geer of the street department, who is a master gardener. She has some help from Jamie Hall, assistant village administrator who has an extensive background in horticulture. A dab of fertilizer helps, too.

The basket project is an idea of ONU President Emeritus Dr. DeBow Freed.

For the first time this year, the colorful display will include four baskets at the intersection of Main and College and four at Main and Highland, bring to 20 the number of baskets. 

There were 12 baskets last year at the Depot and on Main near the railroad tracks. 

The university will place two baskets near the entrance to each of three Main Street buildings: Dukes, Lehr, and Hill.
 

Stratton Greenhouses will plant the baskets in white, purple, and pink annuals this yesr.

Any individual or business wanting to donate a basket may call the Village office at 419-634-4045 for details.