Pennsylvania School of Horticulture for Women - Wise Acres Yearbook (Ambler, PA)

Text from Pages 1 - 72 of the 1918 volume:

DREER’S SEEDS-PLANTS-BULBS AND HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES For eighty years we have been furnishing our goods to most critical buyers, and are in a position to fill your orders for anything pertaining to the Garden, Greenhouse, Lawn and Farm, including Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Lawn Grass Seeds, Farm Seeds, Garden Implements, Fertilizers, Insecticides, Lawn Mowers, Lawn Rollers, etc. Also Plants of all kinds, including the choicest varieties of Roses, Dahlias, Hardy Perennials, etc. DREER’S GARDEN BOOK FOR 1918 WILL TELL YOU HOW TO OBTAIN THE BEST RESULTS FROM YOUR WAR GARDEN Call or Write for a copy — FREE HENRY vADREER 714-16 Chestnut St..Philadelphia —: TH E:— First National Bank OF AMBLER, PA. Capital S1C0.GG0. Surplus $100.GCG. Harry C. Lange Practical Horseshoer General Jobbing Jarrettown, Penna. William Rodemicfc DBALBR IN Dry Goods, Notions, Groceries ami General Merchandise os. M. Hay wood E. H. Faust President Vice-President Wm. H. Faust, Cashier JARRETTOWN, PA. A Stray Spark Caught and the Roof That spark destroyed more than the home—it has swept away things that neither money nor labor can restore— things that sentiment and love have rendered priceless. Some cold, bleak night you and your family may also be mournfully looking at a heap of ruins that a few minutes previous was your home, unless you protect yourself against the devastation of the stray spark; the one certain protection is to roof with Ambler Asbestos 41 Century ’ Shingles. But don't do it until you've proved to yourself that they are fireproof—not partly, but absolutely. Send us your address and we will mail you a sample Ambler Asbestos “Century” Shingle and also tell you where you can most conveniently obtain them. Hold this sample shingle over a lamp. Hold it there as long as you like and it won’t burn—it can’t—it’s asbestos. Test the shingle for toughness. Try and bend it. You can’t. Just because you can’t, it makes a roof that lasts — nobody knows how long, but at least as long as your house. Look at its beauty—its soft, artistic, unfading colorings. It comes in red, blue-black and gray. It doesn’t need paint and it never will. KEASBEY MATTISON COMPANY, Dept. A, Ambler, Pa. AMBLER Offices and Warehouses in all Important Cities throughout the United States Asbestos Shingles - A _ A LI.. A -I_4_•• -!_1._ An Ambler Asbestos “Century Shingle roof can’t wear out, doesn’t depreciate, doesn't leak, split nor warp. It stands up equally well in the coldest winter and the hottest summer. Its only expense is its first cost and that is low. quality and worth considered. Right now, write us for the sample shingle. sf? S$? 9 , CONTENTS Editorial ........................ School Song....................... The Use of Lime on the Land....... Hot Beds.......................... An Ohio City A-Gardening.......... Conservation of Coal in Greenhouses By the Terrace in My Garden....... Ten Jolly Juniors ................ The Valentine Party............... Meeting the Emergency............. War Courses ...................... A Week............................ Alumnae Notes..................... School Notes...................... Red Cross Notes..................... Jokes............................. 2 3 4 7 9 10 4 WISE-ACRES 4 Vol. iv March, 1918. No. 16 Published Quarterly by the Students of the School of Horticulture for Women, Ambler, Pa. Entered at the Ambler Post Office as Second-Class Matter STAFF Editor-in-Chicf, Beatrice George Associate Editor, Helen Belda Exchange Editor, Eleanor Gebhart Business Manager, Beatrice L. William Associate Business Manager, Elsie Schedin Advertising Editor, Ruth A. Gerhard Associate Advertising Editor, Marion Meredith Secretary, Ruth A. Gerhard One Dollar a Year Single Copy, Twenty-five Cents EDITORIAL. Spring is at hand and with it comes a feeling of hope and thanksgiving. Ve have stood shoulder to shoulder through the dark months of the severe winter and shall continue to work side by side under Nature’s gentler aspect. This spring brings with it greater problems than ever before. We are all feeling new responsibilities and wish to meet them fairly. For months our motto has been: “Food will win the war; don't waste it.” We must now grow the next year’s supply. We are called upon to double our production of the staple products and to raise the number of individual gardens to five million. At first sight this does not seem easy when we realize the shortage of seed, fertilizer, and labor. These difficulties can and will be overcome, however. To do so we must use our present supply of seeds very economically, saving our own for next year; we must supplement what fertilizers we are able to get with lime and green manures; and we must cultivate our ground to the greatest advantage with the aid of those enthusiastic women and girls who make up the farm labor units. Above all we must be efficient and waste neither time nor energy. To be efficient one must have knowledge. To disseminate knowledge is the mission of every school and of ours in particular, whose influence has increased far beyond its years,and since the war, has grown by leaps and bounds. It cannot stand aloof but is working whole heartedly with many others. Realizing the great need of the country, we long to be out helping in even a small way. At present, however, we must study and make mistakes, for we are as but children learning to stand alone—yet, before long, we shall each have a part to play. What a thrill there is in real service—it enobles and makes joyous every work! 2 Oh, beautiful for meadows wide, For fields of golden corn, For verdant woodland privacies And crimson skies at dawn! O, Alma Mater! Ambler dear! Our hymn to thee we raise, In every space God give 11 is grace To beautify thy ways. Oh, glorious for autumn days, When rich the harvest yields. For beauties of thy western skies. For winds that sweep thy fields! O. Alma Mater! Ambler dear! God shed His light o'er thee And give increase without surcease, And nobler let thee be! O, dearly loved for April hours, For days of toil and ease. For beauties of thy garden wavs, And music of thy bees! O. Alma Mater! Ambler dear! Let hopes replace thy fears, And grant God s hand may let thee stand Firm through the changing years! Victorious for future days,' When over all the earth Thy daughters bear thy lessons far. And nobly prove thy worth ! O. Alma Mater! Ambler dear! God bless thee ever more, Thy name we sing, oh, let it ring From East to Western shore ! Louise Carter, Class of 1916. 3 v t!Jta filse nf tme on the Calcium is one of the elements essential to plant life. It plays an important part in the formation of the plant tissues, particularly those of the leaves and stems. A scarcity of it dwarfs plants and diminishes their hardiness. The amount present in the soil may vary from scarcely any to nearly 20 per cent. Soils that contain half of one per cent, of calcium usually have an ample supply of it in a form that plants can use. Nearly all of the compounds in which it occurs are slightly soluble in soil water, and the supply of available calcium in a given soil may be lost by leaching out. All of the chemical compounds of calcium used to improve the soil are popularly referred to as lime, though this use of the term is not accurate. Gypsum, or land plaster, does not correct soil acidity, as do the other compounds of calcium that are used on the land, and it will not be included under the term lime in this article. Lime is beneficial to the soil in several ways: As a direct fertilizer, by neutralizing acids in the soil and favoring the work of useful soil organisms, by setting free other elements of plant food already present in the soil but not available previously, and by improving the physical condition of the land. The supply of calcium as an element of plant food is ample in most soils; but it is usually much needed for its other beneficial effects. A few crops, as potatoes, tomatoes, and strawberries, prefer slightly acid soils; but most farm and garden crops thrive better in alkaline soils. This is notably true of the clovers. Newly cleared land is usually acid and newly drained swamp land is nearly always so. Most commercial fertilizers leave acid residues in the soil, and most cultivated crops remove larger amounts of bases than of acids from the soil. In all these cases of soil acidity, lime is the most satisfactory and economical corrective agent. Most soils that have been under cultivation fifty or a hundred years need lime, unless it has been applied as a fertilizer. Even soils underlaid by limestone, that have been tilled a long while, are frequently greatly benefited by liberal applications of lime. If phosphates be applied to a soil poor in available calcium, they are acted upon by other bases and changed to compounds that it is difficult for the plant to use. A liberal application of lime just before the addition of a phosphate, causes it to take a form readily available to common crops. The nitrifying bacteria, by whose agency the nitrogen of the soil air is made available to clover and related plants and is incorporated as nitrates in the soil, cannot thrive permanently where conditions are not alkaline. 4 There is a saying that “Lime makes the father rich and the son poor.” The cause of this impression is that frequently an abundance of potash is present in the soil in unavailable forms that lime can change to compounds that the crops can use. In time such supplies of potash would become deficient and result in diminished yields. The remedy in such a case is simply to supply the needed potash by fertilizing. Calcium cannot take the place of potassium or any other element as plant food. Clay and other heavy soils are composed of very small particles that hold water tenaciously and do not permit the movement of soil air. These conditions and the low temperature that results are unfavorable to bacterial action, the liberation of plant food, and root activity. The application of lime to such soils causes these particles to arrange themselves in groups or granules that act as if they were single larger particles. This lets in the warmth and air, favors chemical activity, and promotes bacterial action and plant growth. It also makes the soil more mellow and workable. Very sandy soils are too loose to hold moisture and fertility as well as would be desirable. On such land, lime acts as a weak binding material and makes the soils more compact and retentive. The forms of lime that will correct soil acidity and give the other beneficial results already mentioned arc quicklime, water-slaked lime, and carbonate of lime. The last may be in the form of air-slaked lime, ground limestone, or ground oyster shells. Marl is an impure carbonate of lime that may also be used. The effectiveness of any form of lime is in proportion to the amount of calcium it contains. Fifty-six pounds of quicklime are equivalent to seventy-four pounds of water-slaked lime or one hundred pounds of air-slaked lime, ground limestone or crushed oyster shells. Ground quicklime is the most active of these and the carbonated are mildest in their action. If the soil should have a superabundance of undecomposed organic matter or a large degree of acidity, the vigorous action of quick- or water-slaked lime may be desirable. These forms also have greater power to liberate food elements already in the soil. But if used in large quantities in the soils in the usual condition, they are destructive to humus. The carbonates are always safe forms to use, and if finely divided are fairly quick in their action. It is not considered advisable to use any other forms on sandy soils. Experiments conducted on heavy land over long periods of time also showed somewhat better results for the carbonate, which, in this case, was ground limestone. Where lime must be shipped a long distance, quicklime is the most economical in freight, the shipping cost being only a little more than half as much as for ground limestone, in proportion to its efficiency. If quicklime should be much cheaper than any other form, when all factors of cost in money and labor have been estimated, it may be purchased in the lump form a few months before needed, put into 5 piles of about 300 to 400 pounds, each in slight excavations and covered a few inches deep with moist soil. If the land should be dry the lime should be moistened and the soil used to cover it should be made wet after it is piled on. Lime so treated will be slaked within ten days or two weeks and will be reduced to a finer powder than if it had been treated with a larger amount of water and exposed to the air. If now the piles be spread rather thinly and exposed to the air, they will become air slaked in a few weeks or months. There is very little lime lost by this treatment and no harm will result from the small amount of soil that will become mixed with the lime in this way. The few lumps that may be found may be removed by putting the lime through a sand screen. In doing this the workman should take advantage of the wind to keep out of the lime dust. Air-slaked lime is much less disagreeable to handle and apply to the land than quick-or water-slaked lime. Lime should not be plowed under, for it works downwards, never upwards. When it is applied to a cultivated crop, the land should first be plowed and disked or harrowed. The lime may then be put on with a fertilizer drill and will be well worked into the surface soil by subsequent preparation of the land. If it be applied to a pasture or meadow, autumn is a good time, as this allows the lime to work its way into the soil during the winter and early spring. The quantity of lime needed per acre depends upon the acidity of the soil and the frequency of applications. On newly drained swamp lands as much as three to five tons of quicklime or its equivalent may be needed, in some cases, to correct the soil acidity. On ordinary land that has been under cultivation for some time, from one to two tons of ground limestone, or its equivalent, every four years, wilj usually be ample. Test the soil occasionally with the litmus and give most of the field the treatment that you consider best; but set aside a small part of it for test plots and try various amounts and forms of lime on them, then follow on the entire field the practice that has given the best results on the plots. John L. Doan. 6 jHni Lkbs March comes, bringing many plans for the garden. You are eager to have an early start; but you think that without a greenhouse you may not hope for the earliest matured crop. Greenhouses, however, are not the only kinds of gardens under glass. Very good results are obtained by the use of hot beds, which are sometimes started as early as January. In this district, the usual time for making the beds is March. For the location of the hot bed,choose a place that slopes to the south. There should be a few feet to the north of the place where the hot beds are to be. This may be in the form of buildings, evergreens, a wall, or a board fence. If a board fence be used it will serve also to support the sashes when they are off the frames. It is very important that the site to be used should be well drained, otherwise water will stand in the bed, which, obviously, will ruin the crops planted there. If the drainage be poor, overcome this difficulty by excavating about three feet down and putting in a layer of crushed stone and other porous material, covering this with leaves or finer stones. After having decided where to put your hot bed, the next step to be considered is the construction of the frames. They may be portable or permanent. The portable frames are 6 by 9 or 12 feet and are made of planks or boards. This will accommodate 3 or 4 sashes. The frames are usually 12 to 14 inches above ground on the north side and 8 inches on the south side, to permit the sash to slope toward the sun. The end pieces are 6 feet in length, tapering to fit the side pieces at both ends. The planks are held together by stakes or by bolts or iron rods. The entire construction must be done with accuracy. The hole is then filled with the heating material and well tramped; the frame is put on and manure is banked up around it. Rough boards or planks are used in making permanent frames. Where the north end is to be, drive in strong stakes about four feet apart; 6 feet from this line of stakes drive other stakes the same distance apart for the south side of the frame. The stakes should project above the surface of the ground just as high as the top of the frame is to be. These are boarded up and cross pieces fitted on. The dimensions for the permanent frames are the same as those for the portable ones. Concrete frames are sometimes used. They have the advantage of being more durable, though the initial expense is somewhat greater. The regulation sashes are 3 feet by 6 feet. Recently double glass sashes with a -inch air space have come into use. They have proven highly satisfactory. The air space acts as an insulator of cold and heat, thus preventing injury from cold and burning by the sun. The work of changing the ventilation is eliminated; and mats need not be put on at night. Plants grown under these double sashes are especially vigorous and are of good size and of good quality. 7 If single glass sashes are used, mats are very essential for cold nights. They are usually made of rye straw. Shades, too, must be included in the hot bed equipment. After pricking out in the hot sun, it is very important that the young seed lings be protected from the strong rays of the sun. Hot beds differ from cold frames in that they are artificially heated from below as well as being warmed by the sun’s rays. This is sometimes done by means of hot water or steam pipes or hot air flues; the usual method, however, is by the use of fermenting horse manure . The manure is collected with from 1 3 to l z its bulk of straw or dried leaves. It is then put into a pile 6 feet wide, 4 feet high and any desired length. If it is dry, it should be moistened with a fine spray; the manure should by no means be soaked. After 4 or 5 days steam will be given off, this shows that heating has begun. Now the pile must be turned. After it has heated through a second time, it should be put into the bed. The depth depends upon the climate, the season, and the crop. If a great amount of long-lasting heat is desired, put the material in to a depth of 2 or 3 feet. If growing a cool crop in spring, such as lettuce or radishes, the manure need not be deeper than 8 to 10 inches. Pack down with a fork when putting it in, but leave it a few days before treading. After it has again warmed up, thoroughly tread it. A layer, 5 to 7 inches, of finely sifted soil containing a large amount of sand and humus is put on top of the manure. After a few days the temperature will drop below to 90 degrees; and this is the time for sowing seeds and pricking out. The uses of the hot bed are innumerable. In it seeds are sown very early, so that large, vigorous plants can be set out early in the season. Tomatoes, egg-plants and peppers are treated in this way. Many other plants may be started in the hot bed, pricked out into a cold frame, and later planted out, thus obtaining a very early start. Lettuce and radishes are often grown and carried to maturity all winter in the hot bed. Hot beds are excellent for growing sweet potatoes and melons. Flowers may be started early in the year to be planted out later. A hot bed will take the place of a greenhouse to a certain extent with a much smaller outlay of capital; and will be found invaluable to the gardener. Great care must be exercised in managing a hot bed. The watering must be done judiciously. Water thoroughly when watering, but do not give an excess. Cultivation should follow as soon as the soil permits. Ventilation is a vital point—when the plants are overheated they will never recover. Too little air will make them soft and make them damp off. An entire lack of air will result in burning. On the other hand, do not chill the plants but watch the temperature to determine the amount to be given. Always give a little air on sunny days. A hot bed, like every other part of gardening, requires constant and careful attention but the pleasure and profit derived fully repay any expenditure of labor. 8 Ruth Anne Gerhard. (An (01]tu (Eiiu (A-CSarbrntnq, Ihe following article, written last July, shows the work of one of our graduates.—(Editor.) When the appeal for war gardens was made this spring, the people of Akron rallied at once to the call with plow and spade,and war gardening became as exciting as the hazardous nature of its name implies. 1 he enlistment into Akron’s Home-Garden Division of the General Army of Defense has far exceeded all estimates. The garden movement is not new in the Rubber City. For several years “The Beacon Journal,’’ Akron's leading newspaper, has sponsored, not only home and vacant lot gardens, but the school gardens as well. This year, with the increased interest in gardening, the staff, thinking it advisable to establish a garden department which should organize the garden work of the city, selected two trained horticulturists to direct this undertaking. They furnish information to garden recruits; conduct a clearing house for vacant lots; manage the school gardens, and conduct a home, vacant lot, and school garden contest. The “spring rush” was strenuous, to say the least. Through this office, war garden signs and several hundred Food Garden primers, published by the National Food Emergency Commission, have been distributed. Garden advice is published daily in the paper. I he school gardens have been maintained for several years, with the “Beacon Journal” as administrative head, by funds contributed by a group of wealthy business men who are interested in this proposition which means so much educationally, socially and economically. But the most productive school plot will not furnish sufficient vegetables for a not infrequent family of seven and four boarders. Such families solved the problem of supply by applying to the “Journal” for a vacant lot. with the result that nearly two hundred people throughout the city arc gardening on lots offered through the garden department. Nothing seemed to daunt these people, no matter what the condition of the lot might be, so eager were they to plant some beans or potatoes. In many cases, father, mother, the boarders and all the children had to set to work to carry off more bushels of stones and tin cans to the acre than they may ever hope to gather in potatoes. The two hundred gardens assigned by the “Journal” represent only a small part of the land that has been reclaimed. All the rubber companies have opened up large tracts for their employes and the Northern Ohio Traction Company offered 75 acres of their right of way for garden purposes. The eight-hour working schedule allows several hours a day for work in the war gardens. The home gardeners have shown the same ingenuity in making use of every bit of available ground. Front yards, the space between the sidewalks, abandoned excavations, former flower beds, and even 9 porch boxes have been drafted into service. The sight of lettuce and radishes growing lustily in the front yard is a pleasant relief from the not uncommon combination of petunias and salvias. Three hundred home gardeners entered the garden contest and about one hundred and fifty vacant lot gardeners wished to compete. When the judges learned the number of visits they would have to make, they said, “Call us ‘slackers’ if you must, but how can we visit four hundred and fifty gardens?’’ But it has been clone. The prospects for more gardens in 1918 are very encouraging as already requests have been sent in for assignments for next year. Ruth LaGanke, Class of 1916. CONSERVATION OF COAL IN GREENHOUSES. The four greenhouses at Ambler used to burn a hundred tons of coal per season. Last year this amount was reduced to forty tons, whilst, at the same time, the income from the greenhouses was almost doubled. This happened before the days when economy was popular; but now we can tell to sympathetic ears how the feat was achieved and the coal bill for the greenhouses diminished to half. Just four very simple rules were followed: 1. Lower temperatures in the houses to the great improvement in color or scent and health of the plants. 2. Low fires on mild days and nights irrespective of the month these happen to occur. This was always a safe saver. 3. Keeping low fires in the morning even after cold nights when anticipating sunny days. 4. Early closing of the ventilators to retain the sun's heat when anticipating cold nights. Briefly then, in stoking, use the natural heat of the sun and thy intelligence. 10 Edna M. Gunnell. Py ilje tUErracc in darken All the long golden summer afternoons as 1 gardened in the narrow stretch of border ground by the terrace, I watched the littie mud wasp at work upon her home. Back and forth she flew, bearing each time the minutest bit of clay to add to the structure of her dwelling What industry, what mother instinct she displayed as bit by bit she shaped the little cone-like form which was to hold the myriad, clustered cells. And then, when the cells were all perfected, she would venture forth to capture and paralyze with her swift sting the prey whereon would be laid the precious eggs. Each time as she returned, and, hovering about the spot, at length alighted and crawled up into the interior, still cool and moist with the dampness of the clay, I could hear her busy workings as with saw� -hke sounds she firmly pressed and shaped the clay. Day by day I watched her as she passed me, her wings darting their iridescence of blue and black and gold in the sunlight—until one afternoon she failed to come. All the countryside lay wrapped in hazy sunshine and the breezes moved lovingly among the branches and waved in sweet rhythm the flowers at my feet, and in all peace and beauty, 1 missed the busy sounds and bright darting of the little mud wasp. The half-formed cone was dry and baked in the heat of the noon day and no little builder came to finish out the form. And at my work I mused and wondered what had kept her. Then that evening, as 1 walked along the country roadside, I passed a little stream and there as I crossed it I found in a deep hollow in the mud made by the press of a heavy foot, the poor crushed body of a little mud wasp. I stooped and took it in my palm. Ah! could it be that it was the little builder by my terrace? All the glossy beauty of the wings was smeared and crumpled and the little body had lain there hurt and mangled where she had so busily been gathering the plaster for her home. My poor little mud wasp, all your hopes and labors cherished by your instinct, dulled forever! And still the dried half-finished structure hangs upon the terrace bv my garden waiting for the builder to return. ' ‘ L. E. C. 11 tEcn 3faUg juniors Tune: Ten Little Niggers. Ten jolly juniors, ain't the class just fine, One fair maicl had a faint heart, and so-o we are nine. Nine jolly juniors on time just one came late; In fact she never came at all, therefore we are eight. Eight jolly juniors find gardening just like heaven One was lonely, off she went, so now we’re seven. Seven jolly juniors up to all sorts of tricks Sad to say one hurt her hip, leaving but six. Six jolly juniors apparently alive If one got chewed up by her dog. we'd be but five. Five jolly juniors all the boys adore ; One eloped with her Valentine, that's why we're four. Four jolly juniors ready for a spree One bumped her little nose, it bled, now we are three. Three jolly juniors with appetites for stew. Ice cream for supper, that left but two. Two jolly juniors with chocolate, nut and bun, Locked the door on eats galore, now we’re but one. One jolly junior found solitude no fun Answer at roll call, ‘‘None, none, none.’’ No jolly juniors life's a blank and bore Let's call them back again, yes, ENCORE. Tune: Ten Little Indians. One jolly, two jolly, three jolly juniors, Four jolly, five jolly, six jolly juniors, Seven jolly, eight jollv, nine jolly juniors, Ten Jolly Juniors all. 12 Mary Jane. ‘(Dje Jlalcntine |3artu The Faculty gave the students a most wonderful Valentine Party on Thursday evening, February 14. From the clever heart-shaped invitations to the jolly red cupids which graced the assembly room wall, the whole affair was one series of enjoyable surprises. The Seniors were bidden to appear as “stalwart swains in “trousers bold to meet the Juniors as “maidens fair’’ in ‘‘gay attire. The many curiously-shaped and sized packages which arrived, or in some cases failed to arrive during the previous week, attested to the scouring of the country for appropriate attire. From four o’clock on Thursday until the magic hour arrived, the cottage and dormitory were humming with preparations, and when the maidens fair arrived it surely was a “motley crew which greeted them. Buster Brown in socks and curls hobnobbed with Louis the Fourteenth; Kate Green way’s little brother was hiding behind two jolly Jack Tars; and the Music Master was sitting stately and tall between two jolly farmer boys; French gentleman of rather doubtful character was gesticulating to another chubby, dimple-kneed Buster Brown; in the background was a tall lithe jester in white cap and painted face, alongside a fair shepherd boy. The “maidens fair were lovely in “gay attire and soon the “stalwart swains had each found him a partner and were most gallantly entertaining each “his ladye faire.” The Faculty had planned a most unique programme which moved as smoothly as it always does under the able guidance of “the Stage Manager,” who, despite a serious handicap, planned and executed the whole thing with fine skill and ability. The programme started with a Grand Opera number entitled “Ten Jolly juniors.” This was a doleful ditty sung by the ten who disappeared one by one and when encored only kicked up their giddy heels and refused to return. The arrival of the mail was most exciting— each one receiving a valentine and likewise still another each, from one of the “maidens fair” who, attired as a Valentine Lady, dispensed her favors to each and all. This was followed by a most dreadful tragedy, called “the King of Siam.” lie proved to be a real high-stepper, but a most awful parent, who killed off every one in the play except the stage manager and the prompter. Even the lovely white-limbed shepherd boy met his sad fate at the king’s hands. Nothing was concealed! This was followed by a delightful melodrama—“Mary Jane and Benjamin, which had a truly out-of-door flavor of the fields and meadows, with singing birds and sleek cattle, and bright sunshine. This proved to be a near tragedy, but was relieved from its deep sadness by a happy ending; despite one’s feelings for poor Sir Mortimer, the spurned 13 suitor, whose lovely figure was a joy to behold! The heroine was most artistic in her portrayal of emotion and her wonderful range of expression was truly marvelous. Most dainty and bounteous refreshments were served; and a jolly Virginia Reel was a gay finishing of a most enjoyable party. The Hallowe’en Party was an event long to be remembered, but our Valentine Party was unsurpassed. We all truly thank the Faculty for the jolly good times and the good feeling they engender among us MEETING THE EMERGENCY. Last spring when the appeal was sent out over the country for increased food production and conservation, and the need became a vital one, the School of Horticulture responded heartily to the call. From the Director down through the ranks to the youngest student, there was a unanimous desire that the school should rise to the emergency of the occasion and prove itself of value in a time of national need. And the school did rise most nobly to meet the need. Special War Courses were organized, many short course students were enrolled, and to meet the demand for instruction in Canning and Preserving, a program of extension work was adopted. And now another spring approaches, and plans are being made for carrying on the work along broader lines; for the emergency has proved itself one which cannot be overcome in the space of a single season. It will not lessen but grow graver as the days go on, and it must be met again with a spirit of earnest endeavor and a deeper realization of its demands. The school this year, in addition to the War Courses given at Ambler on Mondays, is to organize a course in Horticulture at the Drexel Institute for the students in the Household Arts Department. Also in connection with the Drexel Institue a course in Vegetable Gardening will be given at the old Drexel Homestead in Philadelphia, on Saturdays. This will be open to teachers and business women of the city and it is hoped will reach many persons who would not otherwise be able to have the benefit of the first mentioned course. Several other tentative plans are under consideration at present and it is hoped that through the hearty co-operation of all those connected with the school, the coming year may be one of far-reaching importance. 14 L. C. piar Courses LIEUTENANTS’ COURSES VEGETABLE GARDENING 12 weeks Mondays 10—12.30 April 8 to Pune 24 Mondays 2 — 4.30 April 8 to June 24 The morning course deals with Principles and Practices of Vegetable Gardening such as sowing, planting, cultivating the crop, planning and preparing the ground, the use of tools, etc. The afternoon course deals with Culture of specific crops—Potatoes, Onions, Root Crops, and all principal vegetables. FRUIT GROWING 12 weeks Fridays 10—12.30 April 12 to June 28 The aim of this course is to prepare lieutenants to insure the production of our staple fruit supply. This course deals with the planting, pruning and training, spraying, harvesting and routine culture of fruit. CANNING AND PRESERVING 12 weeks Fridays 2—+ P. M. April 12 to June 28 Latest up-to-date methods of conserving Vegetables and Fruits by Drying, Canning and Preserving. POULTRY 12 weeks Fridays 2—4 P. M. April 12 to June 28 General Course in Poultry Rearing with special attention to War rations for fowls. CAPTAINS COURSE Mondays to Fridays inclusive 12 weeks April 8 to June 28 This course includes the War Courses in Vegetable Gardening, Fruit Grownig, Canning and Preserving and Poultry; also lectures and practical work in Floriculture and a Practical Business Course, most essential in the management of a unit. FEES FOR WAR COURSES LIEUTENANTS’ COURSE 12 weeks—half day each week $10.00 12 weeks—whole day each week 17.50 CAPTAINS’ COURSE 12 weeks—5 days each week 65.00 Board and lodging at school weekly (Accommodations limited) 10.00 Board and lodging in neighborhood, prices and addresses on application. A deposit of $5.00 is required for registration. This will be credited on payment of fees. No fees transferable. The courses under the auspices of the Drexel Institute will cover practically the same ground in a more or less concentrated form. Write to the School of Horticulture for information. 15 Speaking of exams reminds me of that dreaded week at the School of Horticulture. Queer, isn’t it, how such trials affect one? The strongest of the crew shake as if with palsy, and the faint hearted quietly pass away. You see, at the school the exam schedule was given out a few weeks ahead. Upper and lower classmen scanned feverishly the page that sealed their doom. Here and there loud ejaculations from the terrorized mob gave evidence that the week-end previous to the time appointed was to be spent in hard, thoughtful, earnest boning, that there might be no necessity for late hours during those harassing five days. Three-thirty Saturday afternoon found the students, who previously started home to spend Sunday and Monday with fond parents, huddled in a miserable heap with the regular “stop overs, bewailing the swift approach of their last day on earth. Only seven-thirty Saturday evening and so quiet? You could hear a pin drop and the old clock ticked patiently on in the awful stillness. What, had the dormitory been deserted ? Ah, no! A peep into the different rooms showed every wretched beggar of the bunch sleeping that sweet dreamless sleep from which one wakes to find she can conquer any task set before her. Could it be possible that these were members of the heretofore-mentioned fear-stricken student body? Weird, what things can happen to a person under these strenuous mental strains. Sunday, a truly perfect day, found many absentees from church on account of the coming week, busily engaged in cleaning up already spotless room. Fly specks that had never been, appeared in enormous numbers on mirror and woodwork, a tremendous task for a lone soul to tackle, but a few minutes’ notice, with plenty of elbow grease, found things beautiful, entire, and clean. Stockings that had awaited the darn of their owner’s hands for weeks, became so vain after receiving countless patches that they fell head over heels into the whole stocking bag. Endless pairs of shabby boots became models of perfection as a result of their zealous wearer’s efforts. Sunday afternoon you could hear the resounding echo of the tick, tock of the faithful old sitting room timepiece, a thing unheard of before this date. In the various rooms of students the atmosphere was such that it coaxed the occupant to stretch herself comfortably upon her bed and cuddle snugly in her steamer rug and with lecture notes in hand, fall fast asleep to dream of better, wiser, things. Monday dawned a glorious day and enticed each and every hoary headed sage to enjoy its refreshing breezes and its beautiful coloring in the form of a long walk. Monday evening, what a change. Conscience-stricken mortals raced through page after page of notes and not until the wee small hours did their cozy nests claim them. 16 Tuesday morning began the awful agony. After the first two hours, they came forth like haunted wolves, gaunt with lack of knowledge. Thus did the whole week progress and at the end only skeletons of the former band of hearty maidens remained to grace the school’s once unequaled ranks. So be thankful, patient reader, Let nothing you dismay, But triumph in your freedom When exams don’t come your way. Harrif.tte E. Brown. ALUMNAE NOTES. The annual meeting of the Alumnae Association of the Pennsylvania School of Horticulture was held December 14, 1917, at Miss Emily Exley’s studio, 235 S. Eleventh Street, Philadelphia. For various reasons the attendance was very poor. In the absence of the secretary, Miss Katharine Cloud, Miss Emily David was appointed secretary pro tempore by the president. The business was then presented to the meeting. The constitution of the Association was revised and made more complete. Nominations were then open for the offices of president, vice-president, and secretary-treasurer. In view of the fact that so few members attended the meeting, it was voted that the officers be eleced by mail. Plans for the ensuing year were then discussed but no definite end was reached. The meeting then adjourned. The secretary of the Alumnae Association, Miss Emily David, reports the result of the election of officers as follows: President—Miss Jane Righter, Mount Carmel, Pa. Vice-President—Miss Emily David, Magnolia Avenue, Germantown, Pa. Secretary-Treasurer—Miss Amy L. Woodruff, Bryn Mawr, Pa. The Misses Katharine and Dorothy Cloud are giving a series of lectures on gardening, under the auspices of the “Women's League for National Service.” We are glad to report that Miss Lois Goss is rapidly recovering from her recent operation for appendicitis. She has given up her position on Dr. E. P. Davis’ farm at New Town and is now resting at her home in Taunton, Mass. 17 JsMjcol ctes October 31. A Hallowe’en Party—a crew of witches and ghostly figures, which would have done credit to Tam O’Shanter, assembled on the first floor of the dormitory and were reviewed by the Faculty, who later in the evening distinguished themselves in plays,—one showing the adventures of an owl and a pussy cat, assisted by a turkey and bong tree, and the other a kangaroo and a duck. The latter certainly could “hop.” December 12. Mrs. Peeler’s Party—a bright oasis in exam week. January 22, 1918. School opened, much excitement over the new Juniors and the change of schedule. Both are now ‘‘old stories.” January 24. Faculty Sleigh Ride—moonlight, frosty night, hot chocolate and cake at Spring House, hoarse voices, jolly time. Much thanks to the Faculty! January 30. Mrs. Denser, of Chicago, told of her interesting experience in growing belladonna. Her delightfully informal manner of describing it made it sound most alluring. RED CROSS NOTES. During the months of December, January, and part of February, the Red Cross Auxiliary has not been active. This has been due to the examinations coming before the Christmas holidays, the latter being unusually long this year. On February 12 a business meeting was held at which plans for the future were discussed, ft was decided to specialize in the making of 4-inch sponges. The Juniors present showed interest and enthusiasm. Thanks were extended to several kind friends who have helped to knit sweaters and helmets. It was voted to contribute $20.00 to the Ambler Wool Fund. A contribution of $16. was made for comfort kits. On March 6th it was decided to discontinue the making of surgical dressings and to devote our entire energy to knitting. The meetings of the Book Club and Red Cross are to be combined. B. L. Williams. 18 3jokes Graduate: Are the girls as hearty as ever ? Student (sighing) : They have contracted a terrible disease, known as “sleeping sickness 1 Mr. Doan: What kind of a tree is this? Special: A cherry. Mr. Doan: IIow do you know it’s a cherry? Special: Oh, I always and everlastingly know a cherry. Mr. Doan: Well, this one happens to be a pear. What does the irritation of the blackberry woodborer cause? Student: Sawdust. One of the girls wants to know why a cat makes that “trembling noise.” Beagle in Drafting: Mr. Doan, I don't like my name. Whisper from behind: Change it. Bright Student (R. A. G.) : Mr. Doan, is Jonathan Spot an apple? Seen in Bee’s Notes: When flowers begin to show pink in the spring, pray for bud moth, red bugs, aphids and scab. EXCHANGES. We acknowledge the following exchanges: The Penn State Farmer. The Temple University Magazine. The Simonds Quarterly. The Country Magazine, (From U. of Wisconsin.) The Wellesley College Magazine. The Holcad (Michigan Agricultural College.) Laselle Leaves. The Review (Washington Central High School.) The Signal, (AC J. State Schools.) The Irwinian. T11E M ASSACH USETTS COLLEGIA N. 19 W. N. H EISS --DEALER IN- H. J. DAGER. INC. SU BUR El AN REAL ESTATE. INSURANCE AND MORTGAGES Dry Goods, Notions, Millinery, Men’s Furnishings 303-305 Butler Ave.f AMBLER, PA. FARMS A SPECIALTY AMBLER, PA. J. M. KIRK SANITARY PLUMBING GAS AND STEAM FITTING Pumping machinery of all kind? Windmills, Gas Engines, e e. OFFICE. 304 BUTLER AVENUE BOTH PHONES AMBLER. PA Diamonds, Watches, Clocks♦ Silverware, Cut Glass, etc. —at— Lampbere’s Jewelry Store AMBLER, PA. THIS BOOKLET FROM THE PRESS OF F. W. RIESS, PRINTER 11 SOUTH MAIN ST. J. Watson Craft Ambler, Pa. Manufacturer of and Dealer in “Enterprise” Brand of Scratch 8 Mash Feed Dairy Feed constantly in stock. Complete line of BUILDING MATERIAL LEHIGH COAL Pittsburg Electric Fence and other Fencing Materials PfiLL PHONE AMBLER. PA 402 8t 404 N. SECOND STREET. WHOLESALE MEATS PROVISIONS AND POULTRY- Bell Phone 42-A VICTOR MAYER H. R. NIRLOCK LADIES’ and GENT’S TAILOR Steam Dyeing and Scouring Altering, Cleaning and Pressing. Repairing Neatly Done Oysters in all Styles, Meals at all Hours WB MANUFACTURE ICC CREAM 7 Butler Avenue Both Phone 421 Butler Avenue, Ambler, Pa. Ambler ALL THE TIME BODDINGTONS SEEDS REES G. ROBERTS RELIABLE ALWAYS 1918 GARDEN GUIDE 1918 NOW READY. SEND FOR YOUR COPY Apothecary Arthur L Uoiihutgton (En. 3ur. 128 CHAMBERS ST.. NEW YORK. No. 1 Main St., AMBLER, PA. PATRONIZE THE “WISE-ACRES” ADVERTISERS CITY GARAGE L. D. MYERS Proprietor Agent for the Maxwell, Cole, Dodge and Olds-mobile Cars TAXI SERVICE Demonstrations on request Full Line of Accessories Cars to hire at all hours for ail purposes at reasonable rates by hour or trip. Both Phones. UPHOLSTERER Cabinet Maker and Finisher Furniture repaired and recovered or made to order, to fit any place in your home; made right, and we beat Philadelphia houses on prices. Let us show samples of carpets, linoleums, awnings and shades; estimates furnished. A. LAPETINA 405 BUTLER AYE.. AMBLER, PA. Keystone Phone 34x Bell Phone 26 m V School of Horticulture for Women AMBLER, PENNSYLVANIA. THOROUGH, practical and theoretical training given in all branches of Horticulture, including fruit, flowers and vegetables, under glass and in theopen. Instruction given in marketing, packing, carpentry, garden designing, bee-keeping, poultry. Regular course two years, diploma granted. Special courses can be arranged. The following products are offered for sale. GREENHOUSE -Carnations, snapdragons, ferns, begonias, primulas etc. NURSERY- A limited supply of rare, well grown Nursry Stock. PERENNIALS—Seedlings and clumps. POULTRY —Broilers, capons, roasting and stewing chickens. JAM KITCHEN-J ams, jellies, preserves, canned fruits. HONEY —Pure extracted honey. —WIN— TIME TO BUY BREEDERS S. C. WHITE LEGHORNS THE BIRDS WE ARE SACRIFICING AS BREEDERS HAVE LAID 39,492 EGGS IN 122 DAYS COCKS HENS COCKERELS PULLETS HATCHING EGGS CHIX IN SEASON POULTRY SPECIALISTS WILLOW BROOK FARM POULTRY DEPT. GWYNEDD VALLEY, PA. BURPEE’S SEEDS GROW! There is still time to plant a garden ! This is the last time to plant root crops for winter use. And there is still time to plant greens and salads—Nature’s Tonic. Perennial flower seeds also should be sown now. And soon it will be time to plant your Dutch Bulbs. It may be impossible to secure bulbs from Holland this year, but we offer you a wonderful selection of Dutch Bulbs, American grown. Burpee’s Mid-Summer Catalogue will help you to succeed with your Mid-Summer and Fall Garden. It contains the best there is in vegetable seeds, flower seeds, held seeds and Dutch bulbs, American grown. Burpee’s Mid-Summer Catalogue will be mailed to you free upon request. We suggest that you write for a copy today. A postcard will do. rw- Waiting to serve you, we arc, Faithfully yours, W. ATLEE BURPEE CO., 485 North Fifth St., Philadelphia. Do you know Chinese Cabbage? Chinese Cabbage is tender and sweet. It is easy to grow and grows well on any good soil. It is illustrated in color on Page 2 of Burpee’s Mid-Summer Catalogue. Dresses, Skirts, Blouses, Bloomers Tailored to Order School Outfits a Specialty Style Book and Samples on request John B. Simpson The College Girls ’ Tailor 914 Chestnut Street Philadelphia Army Uniforms mM A sf? CONTENTS -•--- v--. Editorials..................................... 2 School of Horticulture Luncheons............... 4 Second-Line-of-Defense Parade.................. 5 The Mount Holyoke College Farm................. 7 What Uncle Sam is Doing for the Beekeeper..... 8 Peanuts....................................... 10 Murphy: A True Ally........................... 11 A Letter from a Captain....................... 12 W-a-r S-t-u-d-e-n-t-s ........................ 14 School Notes.................................. 15 Suggested Exam for the Faculty................ 17 Commencement Program.......................... 19 Valedictory................................... 20 Senior Statistics............................. 21 The Currant News.............................. 22 Alumnae Notes ................................ 26 Associate Alumnae Notes....................... 27 Exchanges..................................... 27 k WISE-ACRES Vol. iv July, 1918. No. 17 Published Quarterly by the Students of the School of Horticulture for Women, Ambler, Pa. Entered at the Ambler Post Office as Second-Class Matter STAFF Editor-in-Chief’ Gertrude Wood Associate Editor, Constance DuBois Exchange Editor, Victoria Pine Business Manager, M. Eleonore Siegert Associate Business Manager, Helen Burdick Advertising Editor, A. Majorie Taylor Associate Ado. Editor, Hannah M. Sweeton Secretary, Gertrude Buckler One Dollar a Year Single Copy, Twenty-fire Cents jJhiiorial At a meeting of the “Wise-Acres” Board, held May 15th, 1918, the vote was unanimous to discontinue the publication of “Wise-Acres,” and the following resolution has been unanimously adopted: “Whereas, the war in which our country is engaged makes every unnecessary use of paper, labor and time an unpatriotic act, and “Whereas, the publication of ‘Wise-Acres' involves such a use; be it “Resolved, That the publication of ‘Wise-Acres’ be suspended indefinitely after the issue for July, 1918.” Signed by the Staff and approved by Elizabeth Leighton Lee, Director. The Seniors have been learning that it is a natural and essential thing for a perennial plant to have a resting stage. This magazine of ours is a plant that has been growing now for four years, and has attained a satisfactory degree of hardihood. Now that 2 war conditions have made it the patriotic and practical thing for us to reduce the magazine to a school-news letter to the present graduating class, let us bear in mind the fact that this must be considered only a resting stage. Horticulture is coming into its own, and the present staff are eager for a chance to realize their ideals for a paper with a wide influence. Let us hope that some of us may be instrumental in making “Wise-Acres” flourish when the resting stage is over. To the Alumnae: The “Wise-Acres” editorial staff have pledged themselves to write four newsy letters next year to be sent around to this year’s graduating class in lieu of “Wise-Acres.” If you wish these sent to you, please notify the business manager, Miss Eleonore Siegert, before October 1st. Has our obstreperousness made you think we weren’t fond of you, Seniors? We hope not, and since we are fond of you and realize what a big hole your absence is going to make, we’re determined to live up to you or bust. We aren’t going to feel that you are so very far away because you are entering a field that we also shall enter before very long. It is the sharing of that field and the sharing of this school in preparation that binds us forever closely together, no matter how we are separated by physical distance. We wish you then the best of luck and all happiness in your work, and bid you simply “Au revoir!” 3 tEije J cijool of forticulture Jluncljeims A series of three luncheons was given in the interest of the school at the Philadelphia Art Alliance this spring. They were most splendidly successful and give proof of the deep and widespread interest that there is at this time in the work of women in this field and in the school. They were planned and carried out by a committee appointed from the Board of Directors of the school and from the alumnae. The first of the series came on March 16th and was termed a “family lunch,” those invited being persons connected and especially interested in the school. Mrs. Edwin Biddle presided and Miss Haines made the opening address. Miss Exley, of the class of 1915, spoke on the work of the alumnae and Miss Gunnell spoke on the special courses and the war emergency work which was to be carried on by the school this spring, and a general discussion followed. The decorations, which were in the hands of the class of 1915, were very cleverly worked out. Small Bermuda potatoes tied with a band of green ribbon and a tiny flag on top served as place cards and a miniature plan of the school was laid out on the speakers’ table, which was wonderfully complete, the greenhouse, the poultry plant, Sandy of bygone days, and a spray pump operated by a robust young doll were all parts of the scene, besides all the larger buildings. Pledges and contributions came in generously and a movement was started to secure new annual subscribing members for the school. The second luncheon, three weeks later, included numerous invited guests besides the school family. Among the special guests and speakers of the day were representatives from numerous colleges, Miss Helen Taft, Dean of Bryn Mawr; Miss Carnell, Dean of Temple University; Dean Robinson of Delaware College and Miss Gorham, of Swarthmore. Miss Marion Reilly presided and Mrs. Albertis, the head of the school garden work in Washington, gave an exceedingly interesting talk on the garden work in our national capital. A discussion followed on the part that college women and trained workers could do in the movement for food production and conservation. But the last luncheon ! Despite all fears that the Second Line of Defense Parade might interfere, it quite surpassed all others in numbers. The opening feature was the singing of Hail to the Flag by the students of the school, who were there in their uniforms [with the new school banner. Miss Lee presided, and after a few opening remarks the students sang the school hymn. Mrs. Charles Lea spoke on wheat conservation and several other speeches of interest followed. The luncheon closed with America sung by all and the gathering dispersed either to participate in or witness the parade. 4 The little announcement printed on the invitations perhaps epitomizes the thought that brought about these gatherings. “The Country at this hour depends upon every working unit. The School of Horticulture for Women at Ambler feels the claim. It stands ready to train leaders for a special service. For this reason those interested in the school have arranged a series of informal luncheons at which the plans for wider service suited to present day needs will be discussed.” Most surely the possibilities are great for the further growth and development of the school at this time and it is earnestly hoped that all those connected with and interested in the school will give it their hearty interest and support and help these possibilities to be realized. The school was invited to march in the Second-Line-of-De-fense Parade in Philadelphia, on April 20, and the invitation was accepted with great enthusiasm. Cards were sent out to all the alumnae and everyone who had been connected with the school in any way, inviting them to march in the school division. A banner was made at Gimbels. It was of green, with the magic words in white, “School of Horticulture for Women, Ambler, Pennsylvania '’ Placards bearing slogans for each department were made by the students. The poultry department had for its sign, “Hen Against Hun:” the vegetable department, “It Isn’t Just Luck That Raises Truck;” floriculture, “Keep the Home Flowers Blooming;” school gardening, “Every Little One Helps;” war courses, “Land Army Officers Made While You Wait;” for canning, “Don’t Let It Rot—You’ll Need It”; while for fruit growing, “Raise It With Care. Eat It.” The school costume of “duxbak,” with a green sash and a hoe over the shoulder, was decided to be the appropriate marching costume—so the students dressed in this fashion started out bravely though the rain was falling and a cold east wind was blowing. 5 The school was invited to lunch at the Art Alliance, and, after a delightful lunch, when the school song was sung and the new banner proudly displayed, the marchers were conveyed by motor to Wallace street, where they were to fall in promptly at 1.30. The rain had ceased, but the cold wind was still blowing. They stood from 1.30 until 4 o’clock, waiting for the signal to start. Owing to the lateness of the train, which bore the President’s wife, the whole parade of 20,000 women was halted until she was seated on the grandstand to view the marchers. Splendid spirit was displayed by all the “School of Hort” girls! Not one grumble was heard—only a jolly enthusiasm was displayed; helped on, no doubt, by a band which played at intervals to enliven the drooping spirits of the Equal Franchise Women behind them and the frozen Ethical Society in front. When the order to march was finally given and the School of Horticulture banner swung out into Broad street, the paraders followed in splendid style and amazed even themselves by the wheeling of corners and their martial tread. To be sure, one of the brave banner-bearers caught something in her eye at the first corner—but she marched unfalteringly down the street with the tears streaming down her cheeks—and the front line was a little inclined to run down the flag-bearer who, notwithstanding, marched nobly on, never once missing her step, although at times the flag wound itself around her head in a most distressing manner. There was some difference of opinion as to who was in step in the front line, and some of the ambitious members were rather inclined to forge ahead at a pace not pleasing to the others. However, on the whole, the school presented a very dignified and refreshing front and many most agreeable comments were heard from the sides. Once it was started, it seemed all too quickly over and was later voted to have been a splendid experience to be a part of such a wonderful demonstration of what women workers are doing to help win the war. C. D. H. 6 “2Ihe (iHouni lolgoke College J[arm It is an interesting- thing to know that this article was received from Miss Hyslop, a junior at Mt. Holyoke, at about the time when Miss Lee was in South Hadley telling the Holyoke girls about our school. Understanding and a feeling of co-operation ought to help each unit in our war-waging machine to better carry out its share of work. Editor. All those girls who had the privilege of working on the college farm last summer pronounced it a success from their point-of-view. •Those supervising the experiment pronounced it a financial and patriotic success. The plan followed last year was based on purely volunteer work. During the planting season, while the college work was going on, volunteers were called out for work in the afternoons, sometimes for two hours, sometimes for only one. So many girls volunteered that no girl was needed more than once in two weeks, sometimes less. For the summer work, the time was divided into three months, June 15 to July 15, July 15 to August 15, and August J5 to September 15. For each month seventeen girls were needed. In the beginning the supervisor had called for 30, but during the spring, he found the girls’ work so efficient and thorough that the number was reduced nearly a half. We were to do only fours hours garden work and one hour of housework, besides keeping our rooms. This left us much leisure time which was spent in reading, sewing, tramping and all manner of fun. When there were rainy days, if there was no additional housework to be done, the girls had the time at their own disposal, but usually made up the work later on. This summer the girls will not be required to make it up, but most of them will want to do so. There were very few rainy days, however, last year for it rained in the night instead of in the daytime. Last summer 13 acres of land were cultivated. Enough potatoes were raised to supply the college for two months; 5000 heads of cabbage, corn and beans for drying, besides a large supply of carrots, beets, and turnips. Fresh vegetables were also raised for the use of the farmers. In the spring when volunteers were called for, those w'ho could afford it were asked to contribute any sum possible to a fund to support the farm. With the money donated, tools, seed and fertilizers were bought and the housing and feeding of the girls paid for. This summer the plan is somewhat different. The spring and fall work will be volunteer. In the summer, the girls will be expected to work six hours a day, receiving 20 cents an hour, as do workers in the Women’s Land Army of America. The girls will 7 pay board of $6.50 a week. In this way, the girls may make 70 cents a week, and more if they work more than the six hours. While the girls will have outdoor work they will have no housework. This year 24 acres will be cultivated, and 24 girls will be needed for each month. It is the plan that enough tomatoes, beans and corn be raised to fill 5000 cans of each. A special canning machine will be purchased. During the latter part of the summer, preparation of vegetables and canning, will take the place of some of the outdoor work. By the canning and raising of root vegetables, it is hoped that the college may have enough vegetables to last the next year. Last year the farm was a great success and wre expect it to be this summer also. Beatrice Hyslop. pintle is Ibing for tl|e rs Make your bees produce more honey than ever before because your country needs it, is the slogan among bee keepers, and back of them in this effort is the aid the Government is giving them. Soon after war was declared a year ago in April the Food Commission at Washington sent word to Dr. Phillips at the Bureau of Entomology, that there was going to be a shortage of sugar, and asked him what help the beekeepers could give by increasing their crops. Dr. Phillips telegraphed to the principal Bee Journalists asking that they lay this matter before the public as it was very important. One of these Editors telegraphed in reply that he was taking the night train to Washington so important did this matter seem to him. Dr. Phillips enlarged his office staff three-fold and more, and prepared bulletins to be sent all over the United States to the beekeepers, telling them of the demand for honey and urging them to be ready to meet it. He also asked for details as to how many hives the owners had and how much honey per hive they averaged. Then he traveled all around organizing the beekeepers in every State. Last summer saw the largest export of honey this country has ever had, but fortunately, in spite of this, few beekeepers made more profit than usual. Their honey was all bought by dealers who were buying for a man in New York who had received the orders from abroad. As this honey stood on the wharves ready for shipment the man realized two hundred thousand dollars on it. Of course having cornered the market he just raised the price, but an occurrence of this kind will hardly happen again, because the beekeepers are now awakened to the fact that honey is wanted, and prices are better and that the opportunity has arrived to make honey popular without much advertising or effort on their part. All they have to do now is:—produce the honey. 8 Last winter, unfortunately, played havoc with the bees. Fifty and seventy-five per cent, losses were reported all over the country. The intense cold, lasting so long, was more than the bees could endure, and bee keepers of many years experience were among the losers this year. So, in spite of the high prices and the free advertising, and help from the Government, the beekeeper is up against the rather difficult proposition of producing more honey than ever before, from many less hives of bees. All have learned a lesson from the cold this winter; and in future there will probably be fewer winter losses because all beekeepers are going to protect their bees more thoroughly than they ever have done before. What the Government has done to help beekeepers besides sending them bulletins is this: It allows them to purchase sugar to feed to bees, even during the sugar shortage. Sugar fed to bees in the spring hastens breeding and thus a large force of working bees is ready when the honey flow comes. Then when the freight shortage occurred last winter, and lumber for bee supplies was held up, permission was given to rush lumber through so that the needed supplies might be ready for the beekeepers in the spring. During all those heatless Mondays, saw-mills and factories engaged in bee-supply work were allowed to operate because their work had so close a bearing upon the food conservation that it was most important to have all in readiness. The Government is giving all this help because it wants the honey. First, because of its sweetening value. Honey is used by bakers and confectioners very extensively; cakes made with honey do not .dry out, as cakes made with sugar do; in home cooking many desserts are delicious made with honey instead of sugar; fruits preserved in honey are very good and are more easily kept than those preserved in sugar, because honey is a natural preservative. Secondly, the food value of honey is very great, sugar turns to energy easily, but honey becomes energy still more easily and with less effort to the person who eats it, because honey has gone through a chemical change in the bee's body that we have to put sugar through after we have eaten it and before we can digest it. Therefore honey is one of the best sweets that can be given to the soldiers in the trenches. These are the reasons the Government is urging the Bee Keepers to expand and enlarge their apiaries to the utmost and to buy bees from those whose bees are profitless. Therefore beekeeping is going to be placed upon a higher plane than it has been, because the bees are going to be handled more intelligently and because, owing to the demand and improved market conditions, a more business-like type of beekeeper is going to come to the fore. Letitia E. Wright, Jr. 9 earmfs “My! but they are good aren't they”—this from my small brother a tew years ago. “I wonder why we can't raise some ourselves.” And thus began our first experience with the raising of peanuts. The peanut plant is a vine—a legume—and, therefore, sufficient lime in the soil is quite important. The amount of lime required varies from 500 to 1000 pounds per acre. There are but five or six varieties under cultivation—some with long creeping-stems such as Virginia Runner and North Carolina and others with upright bushy vines as Spanish and Virginia Bunch. We planted the last named variety. We had no trouble in locating our one-eighth acre plantation because our soil is of a light sandy nature. We also have bright sunshiny weather with occasional light rainfalls during the growing season—all ideal conditions for peanut culture. The first week of May found us opening the furrows two and one-half feet apart where the rows were to go and applying the fertilizer. Now since peanuts acquire their supply of nitrogen from the air—a very small percent, of nitrogen was applied, but a greater amount of phosphoric acid and potash was given—to encourage well filled pods. The furrows were given a 2-8-6 fertilizer, that is: 2 per cent of nitrogen, 8 per cent of phosphoric acid and 6 per cent of potash, at the rate of about 400 pounds per acre, after which the furrows were covered, the ridges made level and the two quarts of shelled peanuts planted. We placed them two inches deep and one foot apart in the ridges directly over the fertilizer. An overgrowth of tops and poorly filled pods is the result of applying stable manure that same year—therefore, it should be avoided. It was July, and that land which previously produced corn was now graced by a small peanut plantation—shallowly cultivated, a loose soil mulch maintained under the vines—and kept free of weeds. Peanuts are free from insect pests and diseases save for a leaf spot which occurs on low wet land only, and which can be controlled by Bordeaux mixture. By the middle of August the leaves appeared somewhat yellow —a good indication of maturity. We accordingly set about digging them. How lovely to see the well filled white pods 8 to 10 in number at the base of each plant, the result of our efforts! A one-horse plow with the mould board removed succeeds very well in cutting the tap root and loosening the plants. Potato diggers are used for larger peanut plantings. 10 The plants were then lifted with a fork and immediately shocked around a pole with two cross pieces near the ground to keep the plants from the ground and provide a good circulation of air at the same time—this is the curing process which takes from four to six weeks. The peanut as a plant food is readily gaining in importance. The important commercial products are peanut butter and peanut oil. The peanut cake, a valuable stock food is left after the oil has been extracted from the nuts. The vines are used as forage for the animals. After the peanuts were well cured, we picked them, roasted them, and shared them with the neighbors. S. G. R., T8. What are you going to do with the potatoes that are sprouting in your cellar? There was an abundance of potatoes last fall and you had plenty stored away, but now new ones are on the market and these old ones are sprouting. Don’t let them spoil; it would only encourage his majesty the Kaiser, could he see them. Get the starch out of them first. How many baskets of potatoes have you which are small, scaley, misshapen, or sprouting? You can get just about two and a half pounds of potato starch from a basketful. Isn’t it worth it?—and all you need in the process is a meat grinder, a piece of cheese cloth, a large pan, plenty of cold water, and one or two bowls. Let me explain the process. After washing the potatoes, cut them into pieces such as will fit into a meat grinder and grind them as fine as possible. Next wrap this pulp in cheese cloth, cover it with plenty of cold water in a bowl, and let it stand for bout half an hour. By this time the starch will have settled to the bottom and the pulp can be removed and the water poured off. First stir up the starch in the water and let it settle again. This causes the dark part to rise and it may be poured right off the water. Repeat this process with the pulp two or three times until no more starch is obtained. The starch, now paste, may be dried out in a warm place: i. e., in a warm oven, over the stove, or in the sun. When it is dry break it up into a powder which it readily forms and store in jars. 11 There are just two warnings to observe. Do not let the pulp stand long before soaking it or it will turn dark and make the starch dark, too. And secondly, take care that the starch is thoroughly dry before jarring it or it will mold. Care in this part of the process is especially essential or after all your labor the starch will be spoiled. “But how do we use this potato starch?” do you ask? You may use it as you do wheat flour or with the wheat flour. Its value is principally, in these times, to save wheat flour. Also you need use very much less of this starch than of the flour for thickening gravies and the like, and in a cake recipe calling for three cups of flour, two cups may be used with one-half cup of the starch. Use the starch in your sauces, your custards, your puddings, your pies and your cakes and send the wheat flour “over there. ’ A Jjrmti a Captain School of Horticulture, Ambler, Pa., May 4, 1918. Helen Dear, You were all in my thoughts when I wakened yesterday morning, and when I went over to breakfast there was a long, delight-tul letter from you. You were good to write again, and your kindness and thought of me are deeply appreciated. I think I spoke to you one day last summer about a little notice I had just seen in the “House Beautiful” of a Horticultural School for Women in Pennsylvania. You probably do not remember for between golf and Red Cross, you were a much occupied lady—and I did not say much about it to any one, but 1 had a feeling that at sometime or other I would know more about it. Amy and I talked of it at intervals during the winter, and 1 wrote once or twice to the school for information. Then when the leaflets came describing the war course 1 knew I had to come and see for myself. But it was not until my little family had put me on the train for Philadelphia that misgivings began to take possession of me. And when the next afternoon the station of Ambler was called, my strongest impulse was to go back to Philadelphia and then home. But when the school was reached and Miss Lee came to the door to meet me with a cordial hospitality I knew at once that I was going to be glad I had come and that feeling has grown with each day I have been here. 12 The country that surrounds us is rolling and most pleasing to my eyes that have so long been accustomed to the vast, level prairies of Illinois. The school is on a farm that is composed of orchard lands, some fields of grain, small fruits and the garden tracts, measuring 10x25 feet, and to each of which two students are assigned who become responsible for the cultivation and plaining and care of that particular plot. Now, in gardening, as in everything else, certain details must be acquired. Hoeing, for instance, had always seemed to me a very ordinary and rather slavish thing to be done by the man in the garden. But having learned just the right way to hoe, and rake to produce that desirable tilth I have come to regard it as an accomplishment, the acquiring of which gives me a distinct satisfaction. I could keep on and on as to the details of the daily life here, for no one can live this simple, wholesome, out-of-doors life and not respond to the charm of it or fail to feel the quieting of the nerves and the sane outlook that it brings. We have often spoken of the happy summers spent at North-port Point—and what a large part of that happiness is due to the long walks, the picnic luncheons under the pines, the beautiful sunsets and the mysterious and gorgeous Northern lights! The out-doors has a rest and healing for every one of us, if we accept it, and the simplicity of living that is exacted with it. But you will understand how full the days are, and how swiftly they pass when in addition to the gardening we are shown how bees live and work and how important it is to care for them properly just now when the shortage of sugar creates an unusual demand for the honey. And how keenly interested we are in the poultry! The comfortable, matronly looking Rhode Island Reds—and Barred Plymouth Rocks—and the wiry, immaculate looking Leghorns, that look as if they had just had a bath and a touch of rouge on their combs—and to whose nerves we pay tribute by always knocking at the door before we enter. You remember we talked last summer of how the war has changed so many things, especially our manner of living. It is as if housekeeping were newly recognized as one of the important arts. Then you may imagine with what enthusiasm we go to the canning class, where we are not only shown just how, but do for ourselves such things as making potato flour, and soap for laundry purposes, and delicious things like fruit pastes and war bread. And to the last particular detail, we use the cold pack method for canning fruits and vegetables and the Granger dryer for drying everything that is not canned. 'Hie pride we take in the morning's work is unlimited. 13 There is one morning that would give your systematically trained mind real delight, and that is the time of our business lectures, when, in a crisp, direct way we are taught the best way to hire labor for the farm, and how to keep accounts that show to the last penny what each product of the farm pays, and whether we are making or losing money on the poultry or orchards, or vegetables or whatever products we may be producing. I will frankly admit that I was overwhelmed with my own shiftlessness in by-gone days after the keeping of time sheets was made so clear. I have trespassed upon your good nature in dwelling upon our occupations here, and 1 must ask for your patience just a little further until I tell you with what a professional eye I shall always, after this, look at fruit trees, as to the pruning, spraying, and cultivating generally. And if I could describe to you the untiring patience and vast knowledge of the teacher we have in this department, you would readily see that we could not fail to acquire some points of wisdom ourselves. Of course the spirit of the place is given by the girls themselves—and it is most admirable. I sit at meals with the Seniors whom I have come to know perhaps better than the others, and their earnestness of purpose, together with a dignity and loyalty make them an unusually fine and charming class of girls. Please remember me with love to your dear mother. 1 do not like to think of her as being ill. She is so full of vitality and the joy of living. Thank you again for the letter that told me what I most wanted to know and believe me. Your loving friend, Ada Northcott. Willy, the Kaiser, can shake in his shoes! Autocrats everywhere start to vamoose! Right on your heels we are. No time to lose! Snow, sleet and ice cannot dampen our ardor, Thriftily planning for Uncle Sam's larder. Up at the break of day. None could work harder. Down in the jam kitchen; up with the hens— Equally skilful with hoes, rakes and pens! Now that we've left you and now that we’re through. Teachers and school garden kids not a few, Seniors and Juniors—we miss you, we do. 14 jlcljool JNtiies February 22, 1918. All the students who remained at school over Washington's Birthday were given a delightful party by the Misses Blakiston. The activities of the table and chair held us spell-bound. One of the exciting events of the evening was a spelling bee. Miss Gunnell’s side was victorious, due to the terrible word “hypocotyledonous.” We were served a delicious supper, and each was given a rosy apple to eat while tramping home through the silvery moonlight. March 27. Nine little Juniors and eleven big Seniors had tea in Miss Lee’s room and were given a send-off for a happy vacation. March 28. Mr. Wirt, better known as “Uncle Dudley,” ended his series of lectures on the woodlot by showing us some very interesting slides. March 31. Daylight saving went into effect. Watch hands ahead one hour—back to school one hour earlier! April 8. Arrival of special students, Captains and Lieutenants. April 12. The Seniors have an old friend back, Dr. Steck beck, and the Juniors have a new friend to become accpiainted with. April 16. Dr. Leeds gave a very interesting illustrated lecture on “Reconstruction in France,” which gave us some conception of conditions in the war zone. April 18. Miss Frazer gave a wonderful and inspiring talk at the New Century Club, in connection with the work of Englishwomen on the farms of England. Work at the school was suspended in order that the students might attend it in a body. April 20. The Second Line of Defense Parade. (See article on page 5). May 3. Mr. Waldron, our botany instructor and friend, left us to engage in farming in Massachusets. We all wish him the best success in his new enterprise. May 7. Mr. Francis, who is at Washington in connection with the School Garden Army, gave a lecture full of up-to-date information on school gardens. May 18. Several members of the school, in the jagger wagon, served in a picturescjue way as the rear guard of the War Chest Campaign Parade in Ambler. 15 May 20. Seniors, Juniors and some Faculty were off all clay on a trip to the Minch truck and fruit farm near Bridgeton, New Jersey. The Juniors frankly opened eyes and mouths in amazement at the sight of acres of onions, miles of orchards, and fields of alfalfa stretching away as far as the eye could reach. This was the dream come true of which the students’ plots at the school are but the microscopic embryo. Mr. Minch, with generous hospitality supplied automobiles for everybody. The value of the trip was greatly increased by Mr. Minch acting as guide and telling how a successful truck farmer really gets results. The luncheon under the trees in an old orchard was partaken of eagerly. Altogether it was a red-letter day in the life of the students and their appreciation and sincere thanks are due Mr. Minch for his kindness in giving them this unusual opportunity. May 30. Memorial Day. Miss Lee gave a very charming tea in the afternoon and showed us her new home. May 31. Food Conservation Mass-Meeting at the Academy of Music with Mr. Hoover as the main speaker. The invitation to sit on the platform came from Washington and the student body eagerly did their bit by accepting. Mr. Hoover’s speech impressed us anew with the significance of our work in this great food crisis. June 12. Junior exams begin. June 14. Flag Day. Party by the Juniors in honor of the captains. Strict military order was preserved and only the countcr-sign, given to the satisfaction of the sentinels, gained entrance. A military drill with hoes and a sketch, “The Dormant Bud,” formed the chief features of the evening. .Everybody had a good time and the Juniors’ first party was voted a success. It was characterized by school spirit which found expression in a number of new school cheers. June 21. Dr. Steckbeck says he is leaving us but we feel quite sure we shall see him back again. We certainly hope to. June 28. Presentation of certificates to the Captains. Three months they have been with us. Our best wishes and congratulations to them ! July 9. Senior exam. week. Silence, Juniors! July 10. The old Germantown smashed up, two Juniors prostrate on the ground, the third Junior running wildly down the road calling “Whoa!” Cause: Jack ran away. Nobody injured. 16 July 17. Miss Lee gave a small tea for the graduating class. July 22. Senior party for the Juniors. July 25. School luucheon in honor of the graduating class. Junior party for the Seniors. July 26. Commencement. September 10. The fall term begins. September 16. The fall Captains’ Course of ten weeks begins. for tfje Jjj acuity Answer any five. 1. State briefly and in as elegant English as possible, the best method of obtaining information from the office between the hours of 8 and 12.30 A. M.—with special reference to the use of the telephone. 2. What are the essential points in the culture of War Specials? Give five for Captains and five for Lieutenants. 3. What is Morale and how does it apply to the School of Hort? 4. Describe carefully and in detail the work in the jam kitchen in either June or July. 5. Give five methods of keeping a Woody Ornamentals class from dozing. 6. Give the exact number of pages in Montgomery-Ward’s Catalogue. Describe with special reference to goloshes and grindstones. 7. Describe briefly the uses of a greenhouse cat and suggest appropriate names for five. 8. Give order genera and species of ten cooks planted in the kitchen between January andj March of 1918 A. D. Give varieties where possible and dates of pricking out. 9. Write short descriptive notes on the following: Daniel, Swank, The Henry, Stray Dogs, Causes of the War. 17 10. Describe either the Germantown or Jagerwagon, giving special attention to Harmony, Rythm and Balance. 11. Describe carefully and in detail the construction of the Sunday chicken—mentioning exact number of legs, wings and necks, both before and after cooking. Witty Junior—“Did you ever see a carrot fly?” “Yes, we’ll rally ’round the farm, boys, We’ll rally once again. Shouting the battle cry of “Feed ’em.” We’ve got the ships and money, And the best of fighting men, Shouting the battle cry of “Feed ’em.” “The onion forever, the beans and the corn, Down with the tater—it’s up the next morn, While we rally ’round the plow, boys, And take the hoe again. Shouting the battle cry of “Feed ’em.” —Borrowed. Eleonore: (With hydrometer in mouth), “Much concentration ?” Marjory: “No, not any concentration, but very thick.” Holly take notice! If you cut things on Monday you cut them for health. Cut them on Tuesday you cut them for wealth. Cut them on Wednesday, you cut them for news. Cut them on Thursday, a new pair of shoes. Cut them on Friday you cut them for sorrow. Cutting on Saturday brings true love tomorrow. 18 jicljonl of horticulture for JSJomcu AMBLER, PA. (Ecumteucment 4 P. M., JULY 26, 1918—MAIN BUILDING % PROGRAM Overture. National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Invocation, Rev. Nathaniel B. Groton, rector of St. Thomas’ Church, Whitemarsh. Music. Address, “Gardens and Forests,” by Miss Mira L. Dock, former Member Pennsylvania State Forestry Reservation Commission. Song, “O! Alma Mater.” Valedictory, Miss Beatrice George. Music. Presentation of Diplomas, Miss Jane B. Haines, President or the Board of Directors. Hymn 196, “Our Fathers’ God to Thee.” 19 Music. jfeJehictorg Our course is ended and we must go forth to take our part in the work of the world. It is with no misgivings that we do so, yet we are very sad to look for perhaps the last time upon the friends we love so well and upon this dear old place filled with associations. The two years here have been very happy ones, with their work and their pleasure. The days in the open watching Nature's miracles and studying her laws have made us all the stronger and better; they have broadened our vision and shown us part of an unexplored realm. We must see more—all our lives we shall keep trying and nothing can make us give up! This love for the land has entered our veins—the woods, the blossoms, the sky are a part of our being. What a strange sort of school, where working is fun and yet there are still added pleasures. The trips that we took, the places we saw, the parties we gave, the hay ride, the sleigh ride, the martial parades, and the jokes—we'll remember them all! And now we must go. Alma Mater, beloved of all, this and more hast thou given us. ■Words are but weak, but our deeds will be strong—may our lives do thee honor. With hearts overflowing we approach thee, Alma Mater, and pray God to bless thee. Bright is thy future, for there is great need of thee. Though many changes come and thou hast obtained all that wealth can buy, though they throng here by hundreds instead of by tens, the spirit that founded thee will burn through thee still. Thou wilt always progress. Though we now say farewell, we shall never really part. A strong link binds us forever. Thou wilt find our thoughts lingering here, and wherever there are trees and birds they will be whispering stories of thee. Beatrice George. 20 Name. Nickname Favorite Expression Louise Brooks Brooksey “Anything left on your table?” Harriette Brown Hatch “M y father say s,” o r “W e 11, I’ll be darned.” Beatrice George Georgie “O h, thank you.” Ruth Gerhard Rufus “How wonderful !” Hortense Knudsen Tensius “Well, I guess not!” Marion Meredith Ole Hon “My dear!” Beatrice Williams Beagle “Oh, really!” Ambition Destiny Favorite Occupation Beat valedictorian Ohio State Senate Waiting on Prim or eating To show New England how! Teach Sunday School in Jarettown Talking Reform the Juniors Heaven Just being nice To get any old job A German baron Writing letters To keep absolutely clean A model farm Singing Always have The Sat. Eve. Post. A lovely man Sleeping To get '‘Over There.” Chair of Plumbing at School of Hort. Helping with the chickens ®he Currant Jletos VOL. X PHILADELPHIA, MONDAY, JULY 26, 1923 EDITORIAL By Beatrice George OUR YOUNG PEOPLE As one looks about and notices the young: people of today, observing them in their duties and in their sports there are many thoughts that come to one’s mind. It is evident that they are different today from, yes, even a few years ago. I have had occasion to watch a representative group at table, and, since I would not seem to criticize unfairly, I will describe for you a few scenes I have witnessed. I would not seem to disapprove of merriment at meals, for this is a desirable thing which has ever been a feature of warm home life. But, ah, how easily merriment gives way to hilarity. So doubt not my words when I tell you of scenes I have watched. It is an act of courtesy and good will to serve one’s friends at table and I do not think that cur young people overlook this courtesy. Yet in (Continued on page 2) MISS BEATRICE WILLIAMS RETURNS FROM FRANCE Cheering Crowd Lines Nearby Docks New York, July 25.—Great crowds awaited the arrival today of U. S. S. Denver, bearing Miss Beatrice Williams, of world-wide fame, known for the great part that her cheery presence played in keeping up the morale of the American and Allied troops during the recent war. Miss Williams went over five years ago to undertake the entertainment of our men in the hospitals, but her unusual and contagious cheerintss was soon discovered and she was sent to the front during the most critical situations to keep up the morale of the men. General Pershing says, “I consider Miss Williams one of my most valuable assistants and do not hesitate to say that it is largely due to her that the splendid morale of our men has remained unbroken, thus (Continued on page 2) No. 333 CHANGE IN BROWN- MEREDITH TRUCK FARM H. E. Brown Quits Farm to Become Housekeeper A matter of great interest is the resignation of Miss Harriette Brown from the well-known Brown-Mere-dith Truck Farm at Jarrettown, Pa. After five years of unusual success Miss Brown has given up trucking and has accepted a position in one of t'hel prominent Jarrettown families. Miss Brown and Miss Meredith are graduates of the Pennsylvania School of Horticulture for Women at Ambler, where they took two years of training 'fn ,1916-18. After graduation they immediately started the “Meribrown Truck Farm,” which is remarkable for the rapidity with which it has progressed and the high degree of success attained, it now- being known as the leading truck farm of the country. (Continued on page 4) Page 2 THE CURRANT NEWS, PHILADELPHIA, PA., JULY 26, 1923 EDITORIAL, (Continued from first page) their unrestrained Enjoyment I have seen potatoes thrown from one person to another!—as though they were base balls! And I have heard distinctly such remarks as, “Oh! did that hurt you?” and, “Did it get in your ejre?” On another occasion a young lady pulled the whole back off her chair as she was about to leave. The shouts of laughter that ensued were most vulgar. Even in the good old days of modesty and politeness it was the custom to accept a second helping from a ghen dish, so this might be done with very good grace in our day. Yet even this privilege does not satisfy the present-day youth. They make sure that not a vestige of food is left o-' any dish and I have seen lettuce stacked eight inches high on an individual's plate. Surely this conduct should not continue. Now, friends, stop and think what course may be followed to alter this distressing trait in our young people. You see, as I see, that, if the race is to improve, they must be restricted in their boisterous merriment and noise. We must show them that life is a serious business and the impression one leaves on the minds of teachers and other observers counts for much. Yet greatly do I doubt whether they would hear our words of warning (for the downward path is after all the easiest to walk and advice means little to them. We can but hope that they in time may learn the folly of their ways and long to be ladylike and altogether lovely in their speech and actions. Miss Williams Returns From France (Continued from first pajre) enabling us lo achieve such a brilliant and final victory this April.” As the mighty ship swung into dock the enthusiasm of the crowd knew no bounds, and cry after cry went up of “Vive Beagle!” “Vive Beagle!” This was in deference to her great fondness for and fluency in French. BARNUM AND BAILEY S HAVE COME TO TOWN B. B. are here again on their an-ual visit with their usual and fascinating menagerie and performers, in addition to which they are featuring this year an added and new attraction, “Somersault Rufus,” who has already drawn such throngs that thousands are turned away each night. Never in the memory of man or woman have such remarkable somersaults been seen as those performed by this capable young lady, who received her training at the School of Hort., Ambler, Pa. SOCIAL WORLD HUSHED BY KNUDSEN CONCERT Atlantic City, N. J.—The usual gay prattle and chatter of Atlantic City society was completely hushed' for two minutes today at the social concert given by Miss Hortence Knud-sen on the Steeplechase Pier. Musical critics commend Miss Knudsen for her remarkably extensive repertoire. Her career is worthy of note. She is the first great vocal artiste for many, many years who has not spent a good part of a lifetime preparing for her career. Her early years were spent in training for horticulture, but she sang continually while at work, thus cultivating her voice at the same time as the earth. The program of today’s concert is given below: 1. “Sow the seed only with thine eye and ask not for a line.” 2. “Oh, what is so rare as a row of onions.” 3- “Oh where, oh where has my ‘little man’ gone?” 4 '“Ambler Mater, Alma Dear.” The second number was rendered with such exquisite pathos that it brought tears to the eyes of the audience. Page 3 THE CURRANT NEWS, PHILADELPHIA, PA., JULY 26, 1923 THE QUESTION BOX When dining out, if dessert is not passed for the fourth time -and the person next to one has not eaten his, should one ask him for it, or take it when he isn't looking. I am a nice girl with good intentions, but have been living at a country school, where there has been little opportunity for learning the proper course in 'such circumstances. L. B. L. B.—Neither course would be proper. It would be better to do without more altogether, but if you must have it, wait till every one has left the table and slip back and eat it. A lost handkerchief is a convenient excuse. H. M. S. (member of the D. U. A.) Can you recommen d a mild, but effective scented soap, easily obtained in the country? H. K. H. K.—1 would advise the use of whale oil soap. I have had many years of experience with it and have always found it most satisfactory and can guarantee that it will not lose its scent. F. S. What is the correct use of the word “rot.” and is it ever permissible for a lady to use? B. G. B.G.—- s to the use of the word rot, it is certainly not a pretty word for a lady, but forceful when correctly applied. For correct use consult a dictionary. J. L. D. How would one or would one not measure a cord of wood that has knots or has not knots in it? R. A. G. R. A. G.—If it were not my own cord I would not measure it of my own accord if it had not knots. Editor. I am living in one room and doing light housekeeping ihere. But I can not decide how to balance my cooking and heating appliances, for though )I may cook: over a small stove at one end of the room, I find it very cold in bed with the said heating appliances so far away. W hat advice can- you give? B. W. B. W.—Have the stove under your bed and so economize on the use of winter woolens. P. B. I may be a little selfish, but every week I save a little money for a personal treat. Often I find myself with just five cents in my pocketbook and I have always great trouble to decide how to spend it. I feel that I cannot live without the Saturday Evening Post and its enchanting stories, yet I cannot purchase it and a plate of ice cream with one nickel. Can vou advise me how to spend my nickel. M. M. M. M.—A magazine may be borrowed, while it is awkward to borrow anyone's ice cream. Pansy (member of B. F.) I find it hard to decide which colored dress to wear when going out with a young man. It is awkward to find out which colored suit he will wear and it is so hard to know which colored frock will harmonize with his apparel. Can you tell me what to do? H. B. H. B.—Never walk so close to the gentleman that the colors get a chance to clash. Editor. J. M. KIRK SANITARY PLUMBING GAS AND STEAM FITTING Pumping machinery of all kinds Windmills, Gas Engines, etc. OFFICE, 304 BUTLER AVENUE BOTH PHONES AMBLER, PA. Page 4 THE CURRANT NEWS, PHILADELPHIA, PA., JULY 26, 1923 ANNUAL REUNION OF L. B. A. LARGEST EVER Rumors That Association Is to Disorganize Ambler, Pa.—The annual reunion of the Louise Brooks Association of Disappointed Suitors is being held here this week. It is the most brilliant convention in the history of the association. Miss Brooks herself has consented to be present, bringing with her a larger train than ever of new candidates for admission. Miss Brooks will conduct the initiation. It is likely that this will be the last meeting of the association, for it is rumored that Miss Brooks is to end the convention by at last choosing one of the many members of the association. It has been unofficially stated that she will decide in favor of the one who can most successfully imitate her most charming and characteristic squeal. It has been the fascination-. of this squeal and the little poke which so often accompanies it that has won for Miss Brooks so many devoted admirers. There is a spirit of great rivalry and competition. Change in Brown-Meredith Truck Farm (Continued from first page) We shall watch with interest the development of the “Meribrown Farms” from this point. Miss Brown and Miss Meredith attribute their marvelous success largely to their unique methods of management and their readiness to experiment. To the humble outsider be it said that both cultivation and overhead irrigation are recommended by this remarkable firm. We'quote a recent interview which we had the pleasure and honor of having with Miss Meredith. “You all want to know the secret of our success?” She said in her characteristic southern drawl. “Well, I think cultivation is the only thing, but Har-riettc kept talking about over-head irrigation until I finally just let her do it.” We shall watch interestedly to see whether the irrigation system is retained. W. N. HEISS ----DEALER IN-- Dry Goods, Notions, Millinery, Men's Furnishings 303-305 Butler Ave. AMBLER, PA. J. Watson Craft Ambler, Pa. Manufacturer of and Dealer in “Enterprise” Brand of Scratch S Mash Feed Dairy Feed constantly in stock. Complete line of BUILDING MATERIAL LEHIGH COAL Pittsburg Electric Fence and other Fencing Materials JUuitmae Jfoies Miss Emily Exly, ’15, tells us she is in charge of twenty-seven acres of war gardens. She must he a brigadier general or something like that. Miss Emily David, of T6, is working with Miss Exley. The Class of 1916 has two supervisors of city gardens to her credit. Miss Ruth La Ganke continues to work in connection with a progressive newspaper in Akron, Ohio, and Miss Margaret Mac-Creight has been appointed city supervisor of gardens in Morristown, Tennessee. We hear so often of “The Clouds.” Could horticulturists be better named? Beagle Williams is taking their place in charge of a private estate in Radnor during the month of August. Miss Louise Carter, T6, is a traveling person and, though we believe she is in Rhode Island now, she’ll be somewhere else soon. We are glad that she occasionally includes the school in her itinerary. Miss Jane Righter, T7, and Miss Katharine Cohen, T7, are superintendents of a large private estate in White Plains, New York. In the spring Miss Parke Taylor, T7, received the appointment as urban garden agent in the State of Virginia. Miss Lucy Lee Richardson, Class of 1915, is now Mrs. Lewis B. Willis, of Orange, Va. We congratulate Mr. Willis on his good fortune. 26 Associate JMumnae j ioies Positions now held by students having completed the Captain's Course: Miss Louisa Gibbons Davis, Supervisor of the Garden Club Unit, Media, Pa. Miss Margaret L. Law, Assistant Supervisor of the Land Army Unit, Berwyn, Pa. Miss Greta Mylecraine, Worker on a Dairy Farm, Malvern, Pennsylvania. 1 Miss Jenny Miehle, Gardener on a Large Estate, having a resident unit at Peterboro, N. II. Miss Margaret Robertson, student in Horticultural Class which forms a War Unit at Villanova, Pa. EXCHANGES We acknowledge the following exchanges: The Pennsylvania State Farmer. The Holcad (Michigan Agricultural College). The Massachusetts Collegian. The Temple University Magazine. The Simmons Quarterly. The Country Magazine (from University of Wisconsin). The Wellesley College Magazine. Laselle Leaves. The Review (Washington Central High School). The Signal (New Jersey State Schools). The Irwinian. The New Hampshire. 27 ) 402 8c 404 N. SECOND STREET. WHOLESALE AAA PROVISIONS AND POULTRY Bell Phone 42-A VICTOR MAYER LADIES’ and GENT’S TAILOR Steam Dyeing and Scouring Altering, Cleaning and Pressing. Repairing Neatly Done H. R. NIBLOCK Oysters in all Styles. Meals at all Hours WE MANUFACTURE ICE CREAM 7 Butler Avenue Both Phones ALL THE TIME BODDINGTONS SEEDS RELIABLE always 1918 GARDEN GUIDE 1918 NOW READY, SEND FOR YOUR COPY Artljitr jgn iitttgtiM (En. 128 CHAMBERS ST., NEW YORK. REES C. ROBERTS Apothecary No. I Main St., AMBLER, PA. Diamonds, Watches, Clocks, Silverware, Cut Glass, etc. —at— Lamphere’s Jewelry Store AMBLER, PA. THIS BOOKLET FROM THE PRESS OF F. W. RIESS 11 SOUTH MAIN ST. PtLL phone AMBLER. PA. CITY GARAGE L. D. MYERS Proprietor Agent for the Maxwell, Cole, Dodge and Olds mobile Cars TAXI SERVICE Demonstrations on request Full Line of Accessories UPHOLSTERER Cabinet Maker and Finisher Furniture repaired and recovered or made to order, to fit any place in your home; made right, and we beat Philadelphia houses on prices. Let ns show samples of carpets, linoleums, awnings and shades; estimates furnished. A. LAPETINA 405 BUTLER AVE„ AMBLER, PA. Keystone Phone 34x Bell Phone 26 m Cars to hire at all hours for all purposes at reasonable rates by hour or trip. Both Phones. DREER’S SEEDS-PLANTS-BULBS AND HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES For eighty years we have been furnishing our goods to most critical buyers, and are in a position to fill your orders for anything pertaining to the Garden, Greenhouse, Lawn and Farm, including Vegetable and Flower Seeds, Lawn Grass Seeds, Farm Seeds, Garden Implements, Fertilizers, Insecticides, Lawn Mowers, Lawn Rollers, etc. Also Plants of all kinds, including the choicest varieties of Roses, Dahlias, Hardy Perennials, etc. DREER’S GARDEN BOOK FOR 1918 WILL TELL YOU HOW TO OBTAIN THE BEST RESULTS FROM YOUR WAR GARDEN Call or Write for a copy — FREE HENRY'A.DREER 714 16 OkcstnutSt..PhikdcJpliia. —: THE :— First National Bank OK AMULER, PA. Capital $1(0.000. Surplus $100,000. Jos. M. Haywood E. H. Faust President Vice-President Wm. H. Faust, Cashier H. J. DAGER, Inc. SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE. INSURANCE AND MORTGAGES FARMS A SPECIALTY AMBLER, PA School of Horticulture for Women AMBLER, PENNSYLVANIA. THOROUGH, practical and theoretical training' given in all branches of Horticulture, including fruit, floweis and vegetables. under glass and in ti-eopen. Instruction given in marketing, packing, carpentry, garden designing, bee keeping, poultry. Regular course two years, diploma granted. Special courses can be arranged. The following products are offered for sale. GREENHOUSE- -Carnations, snapdragons, ferns, begonias, primulas etc. NURSERY—A 1 imited supply of rare, well grown Nursry Stock. PERENNIALS —Seedlings and clumps. POULTRY —Broilers, capons, roasting and stewing chickens. JAM KITCHEN—Jams, jellies, preserves, canned fruits. HONEY —Pure extracted honey. • �