The blooming flowers are everywhere. At least it seems that way in Over-the-Rhine. More than 240 windows of Over-the-Rhine buildings now have flower boxes overflowing with colorful blossoms.

Randy Schneeman checks flower boxes at Suders Art Store. (Michael E. Keating photo) | ZOOM |

        “We think it really sets us apart,” Marge Hammelrath, executive director of the Over-the-Rhine Foundation, said this week after touring the neighborhood and counting the flower boxes.

        The window flower boxes are being installed as part of the Miracle Mile program of blooming window boxes planted along Over-the-Rhine's residential and commercial facades. The program is the brainchild of Councilman Jim Tarbell and Jay Korte, president of Flower Framers window box company.

        “The vision of neighborhood — what people thought about Over-the-Rhine after the disturbance (April riots) — was an image we had to change and that was the fastest thing we could think of,” said Ms. Hammelrath, whose nonprofit agency is sponsoring the $250,000 program.

        Fiberglass window boxes are painted to complement the exterior of each building. A self-watering system is included to help keep the plants watered and healthy.

        “I certainly think it's a plus for the neighborhood,” said Sharon Suder, owner of Suders Art Store on Vine Street,whose establishment got its flower boxes installed this week. “It beautifies the neighborhood in a difficult year.”

        Window flower boxes are already in place on buildings along Vine, Walnut, Race, Clay and 13th streets and Central Parkway.

        Business owners and residents who can afford the flower boxes can purchase them at cost through the program. Donations are being requested to pay for additional ones.

        Tax-deductible donations may be sent to the Miracle Mile, c/o Over-the-Rhine Foundation, 1317 Main St., Cincinnati 45210.

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