Ward 2 Councilman Matt Schonhut, some of his council colleagues and a few volunteers spent Saturday shoveling dirt and mulch and planting shrubs and small trees around Strongsville High School.

Schonhut, who owns a landscaping company, said he has been bothered since he attended SHS by the lack of plants on the grounds, going as far as discussing it with Principal Bill Steffen when he was a student.

"It's finally coming to fruition this year," he said.

Councilman at large Joe DeMio, Council President Mike Daymut and Ward 3 Councilman Jim Carbone all donated their time, as did a few students.

"It's nice to have someone on council who wants to give back to the community," Daymut said.

By noon, the volunteers had scooped up much of the 40 yards of dirt and 40 yards of mulch, and had put about half of the plants in the ground.

"It's an amazing transformation," Daymut said. "This is really a major enhancement."

Schonhut said Petitti Garden Center, Mayor Tom Perciak,Landmark Lawn and Garden Supply and Hirt's all donated material to make the project possible.

Schonhut also donated his own labor force and equipment.