The Garden Club of Kewanee may have disbanded after nearly seven decades, but its popular “Yard of the Month” tradition will continue.

Beginning in May, The Kewanee Voice will take over the summer program, with several former Garden Club members agreeing to help select the featured yards.

In past years, the club named winners for June, July and August. Former member Joline Oswald said she always felt spring — the strongest part of the gardening season — was overlooked.

This year, The Voice will shift the schedule and announce each Yard of the Month at the end of the month rather than the beginning. Awards will be given at the end of May, June and July.

As homeowners begin preparing their yards after winter, Garden Club volunteers will be out looking for potential honorees, but the public’s help is needed and nominations are encouraged. Residents may nominate a yard by calling the office at 309‑489‑2721 or emailing The Voice with “yard nomination” in the subject line. Be sure to include the address of the yard and any contact information you may have for the homeowners.

Yard of the Month winners will receive a sign to display in their yard during the month, a framed certificate, a gift certificate for $50 from a local nursery and have their award-winning yard featured on The Kewanee Voice.