MOUNT VERNON — Citing a shortage of traditional funds for traditional summer programs for juvenile offenders, Knox County Probate/Juvenile Judge James M. Ronk proposed a different idea to the county commissioners on Thursday. Ronk drew a sketch of the parking lot behind the Juvenile Probation office building to show that there were two out-of-the-way spots where two raised beds could be built for gardening projects.

Ronk said the project was brainchild of Jeannette Hammond, who is also involved with the Knox County Master Gardeners program. Hammond recommended establishing two raised beds, three feet by ten feet, allowing for easy access and weeding from either side. Ronk said that the gardening would be a good experience for the youths, and what they raise could be donated to the food bank for charitable distribution.