A 'pine' evening had by all!


FALLS VILLAGE — The scent of gasoline mingled with pine in the garage at the Agriculture Education Center at Housatonic Valley Regional High School Thursday night. The scene was chaotic but cheerful during the annual community "production" night of wreaths and other decorations, with long branches of pine strewn about between tractors and push mowers.

By 7:15 p.m., production was in full force. Unwieldy branches had become tight bundles of greens and wire coat hangers were transformed into lush wreaths. Members of the school’s FFA, alumni and people from the community chatted and laughed as they worked.

As part of its annual holiday sale, the Housatonic Valley FFA holds two production nights. Friends and family are invited to lend a hand preparing goods for the sale. The sale runs daily through Dec. 21, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

FFA members grow poinsettias throughout the year in the greenhouse at the school. They also make wreaths, garlands, center pieces, kissing balls and swags. And, of course, there are the trees. Prices for trees range from $15 to $65. Other products range in price from $8 to $45. Cabot cheese is also available for sale.

Money raised from the sale benefits the FFA. The chapter also plans to donate a portion of its proceeds to four area food banks.

Julie Russ of Corwnwall, who is an alumna of the Housatonic FFA and whose daughter is currently a member, summed up the evening: "It’s a great event for community and fellowship."

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