A recent donation from a local businessman has helped Ironton In Bloom reach about a third of its goal needed to keep the flowers blossoming this summer.

Bob Clyse, owner of Bob Clyse Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, presented Carol Allen, chairperson of the volunteer group, with a $1,000 check to help place floral displays downtown. Clyse also bought four giant planted pots from IIB to place on the sidewalk in front of his business on South Third Street.

“This is the kind of support from businesses we appreciate,” Allen said. “Individual donations are up, but we really need more support from the business community. We think the improvement in the looks of our downtown is something that will draw business here and is well worth the investment.”

Ironton In Bloom began about four years ago with a group of concerned citizens wanting to decorate the city with floral arrangements. The first year for the group brought it national recognition when America In Bloom awarded IIB a first place prize in a national competition.

Those potted arrangements around the downtown and the beds of springtime daffodils and fall pansies, as well as professional maintenance, cost the civic group approximately $46,000 a year. Right now IIB has collected $14,000 from individuals and businesses.

“Hopefully, it will come in over the summertime,” Allen said. “That is when our bills are due. We basically need it by October. That is when we put our pansies in.”

In July, IIB will host the second backyard garden tour on July 10, one of its larger fundraisers.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution, can send a check to Ironton In Bloom, P.O. Box 4495, Ironton, OH 45638