Buckeye blooms win Bright Spot Award

Red buckeyes at 2725 W. Kent Dr. caught the attention the Keep Carbondale Beautiful Board, leading to a Bright Spot Award for Tad Foland and his 91-year old father, Neal. 

Tad Foland grew up in the house and worked at landscaping golf courses. He brought that attention to detail to his own home, using a mix of native and non-native plants and coordinating bloom times. Red buckeyes in blossom over ferns and lily-of-the-valley are the show now; white azaleas will follow, then pink and white rhododendrons. If the flowers aren't enough, they are supplemented by hummingbird feeders. Statuary adds further interest, including monuments to family pets.

The equally manicured backyard has a 50-year old white dogwood and a purple wisteria that had originated in England and came by way of Cambria. Japanese maples highlight the sides. Despite all the work that's gone into the yard, Foland says, "I still spend 20 hours a week out here" during growing season. Neighbors affirm that the award is well deserved.

The KCB Board selects businesses or residences to receive the Bright Spot Award for enhancing the beauty of the community by means of revitalization of property, new construction, plantings and beautification, upkeep and maintenance, or rehabilitation.

To nominate a business or residence to receive the award, call the Keep Carbondale Beautiful office at 525-5525 or e-mail BrightSpotAward@gmail.com.