Seeded in one man’s idea, cultivated by another’s, and planted through the cooperation of several entities — a new garden bearing the monogram of Falls High School now enhances the city grounds directly across from the main FHS entrance.
The blossoms of purple petunias and gold marigolds will boast the letters “FHS.” The idea began in the mind of Orin Simon, International Falls Men’s Garden Club member who said the club wanted to work with some young people. He contacted FHS instructor Chris Hemstad who is also the advisor for the school’s National Honor Society.
Bringing the idea to NHS members headed by president Stella Fredrickson — they were all for it, Hemstad said. The city of International Falls supplied the timbers, garden soil and all of the flowers that grace the garden.
“It’s just really nice to have everyone working together,” Hemstad added. He noted that the NHS members laid the timbers for the garden on the same night they slept in boxes outside the school to raise awareness for the homeless.
NHS members Fredrickson, Monica Hasbargen, Keith Simon (Orin’s grandson), Garrett MacKay and Kara Kennedy were busy preparing the garden Friday morning. Rushing to beat the rain, they set their lines and planted all the flowers with the help of garden club members Simon, Tom Sakry and Bob Dunbar.
These gardeners clearly enjoy their partnership with the students — and with the earth.
Petunias flying, cartons tossed aside, knees and hands were soon blackened by the rich soil. Hemstad said he was impressed by how quickly and nicely the garden came together.
