The Chillicothe Farmers Market is a very fortunate market. We have folks from all walks of life here, whether it be buyers or sellers. We also have a wonderful group of young gentlemen from the Lighthouse Youth Center's horticulture program. I know, I know, you're used to the footloose fancy free stories I tell, but on this rare occasion I am going to highlight a group with a bit of control. It'll be hard, but in the end I'll reward myself with a bit of chocolate. Lighthouse Youth Center is a wonderful organization here in Ohio that provides much needed services for children of all ages and their families. Services dealing with issues like abandonment, homelessness, family crisis, and learning self sufficiency. They even provide residential care and have a State supported private juvenile correctional facility. Basically, Lighthouse is a much needed organization for our community. Thousands of families each year need their help and support. At the top of every page on their website is the slogan, "Brighter lives for youth and families." It is our duty to give these up and coming individuals our support any way we are able. Now that you've read this you're wondering what you can do. Well, that's easy. Go to the Chillicothe Farmers Market on Saturday between 8:00 a.m. and noon. While you're there, head on over to see Mr. Throckmorton and the Lighthouse Youth Center Horticulture Program's booth. They're not hard to find - opposite end of the market from the token booth on the right side. They sell a huge variety of plants - from herbs to flowers to vegetables. There's no way you can look at the plants they have and not find something. We have personally bought plants from Lighthouse for years now. They are always wonderfully cared for and maintained. Here's the great thing about purchasing plants from Lighthouse Youth Center's Horticulture Program...the money goes towards the horticulture program. That's right! In fact, Mr. Throckmorton told me right now they're raising money to buy another greenhouse - one they will not only buy materials for, but build, too. The young men of Lighthouse that participate at the Market on Saturday mornings are always a joy to see. They work hard and are friendly. The youth that are part of the Lighthouse Youth Center's Horticulture Program are learning valuable skills that will help them in a variety of ways. Just think of it, they are helping run a business. They are literally planting seeds, nurturing them, and learning valuable life skills. So, there you have it, folks. While you're out and about on Saturday morning, make it a point to stop by the Market and visit with the young men of Lighthouse Youth Center's Horticulture Program. The money you spend on their plants will be invested in future programming and other needs of the horticulture program. If you'd like to learn more about Lighthouse Youth Center go to http://www.lys.org/professionalservices.html I do believe I've earned myself a bit of chocolate. Smiling & Waving, Sharon
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