ACADEMY CLASS GROWS PLANTS IN WINTER
Thursday, February 2, 2006 — Have you ever wished that you could have a vase of freshly cut flowers in your home during the middle of winter? Perhaps you've dreamed of plucking an apple straight from the tree that it grew on, even when there is snow on the ground? Mr. Fort's science class at Millsberry Academy is working on a way of making those wishes a reality!
"Of course, everyone has heard of using a greenhouse to grow vegetables, herbs, and other plants during the winter," Mr. Fort told the Gazette. "We will also be working with greenhouses, but you see, the class is going to be trying something different. We are going to make an effort to grow plants indoors... without soil!"
According to Mr. Fort, this technique actually has ancient origins. "The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, which were one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, were grown this way, as well as some Aztec gardens. Nowadays, we are more interested in the practical benefits of this kind of gardening, rather than its decorative purposes. For example, growing plants without using soil makes it possible for the scientists working in Antarctica to have fresh vegetables all year, which could otherwise never happen!"
The students will begin their project by growing a leafy green plant called watercress in jars of water. The key to this process is getting a proper balance of nutrients in the water for the plant's roots to absorb. Upon completing their watercress assignment, the students will try to grow tomatoes and even some types of flowers.
"I would like to thank Mr. Peterson, of Peterson's Construction and Hardware Emporium, for his kind donation of plants and equipment to our class project," Mr. Fort said. "Spring is just around the corner, and Peterson's Emporium is the best place to find all the best tools for gardening of any kind."
Be sure to check out all the cool things going on at Millsberry Academy this winter!
GROCER RECALLS HUMBLE BEGINNING
Amid the hustle and bustle of his large, busy grocery store, owner Harold Ettin recently took a moment to reflect on the history of his store with the Gazette. "This grocery store began many years ago when my grandfather opened a fruit and vegetable stand," Ettin told the Gazette. "After the great fire of 1905 burned the stand down, he decided to rebuild it as a store. My mother later expanded the store when she took over, and now I take great pleasure in serving the town of Millsberry by providing fresh fruits and vegetables, fine meats, and many other high-quality foods. I certainly hope that the future holds more surprises for the store, just like the free Berry Lucky Charms cereal giveaway we're offering right now!"