ASHLAND — Sandra Tunnell described the effort put forth by “Main Street Ashland” at the Feb. 4 Art of Gardening Club meeting at Peace Lutheran Church.
Pat Edwards, Art of Gardening Club president, introduced Tunnell as the most enthusiastic person she’s ever met.
Tunnell, Executive Director at Ashland Main Street, is in her 15th year with the group.
“It was a lot of work to be the town we are now,” She said. “We’ll start with design because you’re flower people.
“People will come to look at the downtown baskets.”
Community members come together to hang baskets in downtown Ashland. Pink and white petunias thrive in pots on city sidewalks. For the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026 red and white petunias will be displayed. A giant July 4 parade is on tap.
Tunnell noted that downtown has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“If it looks nice, it’s a great reflection on the community,” Tunnell stated.
She cited a 96-percent occupancy last year among downtown storefronts. In addition to the “awesome” Arch, Ashland boasts other highlights – a clock gifted by the Rotary Club and a downtown landmark, the Foundation Plaza featuring big brass animals (bears and a lion).
Tunnell was proud of the fact that Ashland did not lose any businesses due to Covid.
Ashland also has been featured as “Best Hometown” in Ohio Magazine.
“Something we’re doing differently this year – businesses will be open later the last Friday of the month,” according to Tunnell.
Upcoming events include Dueling Pianos February 13 at Luna, which is located upstairs at South Street Grille, 121 South St., the St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 14 followed by dyeing Center Run Creek green, the yearly car show, and an adult spelling bee Friday, Aug. 28.
Exploring hidden spaces in different downtown buildings is another high point. The annual Holiday Shop Hop and Christmas parade wrap up the year.
“Events are fun, great, exciting and help the economy. Our theater is a jewel!” Tunnell added.
The “hard-to-find homes” situation is being addressed with a townhome project in the works. The former Pump House will be transformed into apartments and an extended stay hotel.
“Ashland was always proud of being secretive,” Tunnell reflected.
Cayse’s Kitchen Catering & Co., 623 Claremont Ave., opened at the end of January. Tunnell mentioned Ohio Fire, 102 E. Main St. The pizza restaurant is fairly new.
Edwards introduced a cycle friend, Wendy Wilson, as a guest at the meeting.
“She cycles next to me,” Edwards said.
Wilson moved here in August from Chagrin Falls.
Ruth Ann Linder will remain in her role as one of the Fair Box captains. The club maintains two fair flower boxes located on Claremont Avenue in front of the fairgrounds.
Sally Ahlers will continue to oversee the “Yard of the Month” summer program which runs from June through September. Yards are judged based on the Spring Cleanup’s four quadrants.
Winners receive $50 gift certificates – $25 from the club and $25 from Farm and Home Hardware.
Kim Tanner volunteered to head up the Plant Sale fundraiser May 9 at Peace Lutheran Church.
“I’ve done it four times,” she said, referring to her participation in previous plant sales.
This will be the Art of Gardening’s first plant sale fundraiser. Tanner is urging members to start ahead of time, early April. Houseplants are included.
The club received thank yous from member Lee Heckman for food she received following shoulder surgery, Associated Charities for the group’s donation collected at the Christmas brunch, Ashland County Historical Society for the club’s corporate membership, and Secrest Arboretum for being a member of Friends of Secrest Arboretum.
The March 4 program is on “Pruning” with Todd Bowman.
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