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WW A Christmas pageant... Hours of practice paid off many times over when the children of Montini Primary and Mid­ dle School performed a successful Christmas pageant last weekend. A cast of 232 presented the musical fantasy "Three Wee Kings" to a packed house. Besides the traditional characters of Mary, Joseph, the Wise Men and the shepherds, the production included lions, goats, lambs and camels. PUIndutor Herald photo* by Donnt Santi 4 Poinsettias 'misunderstood' plant The Christmas season would not be complete without the traditional poinsettia. This popular gift plant is a common sight in offices, public places, and homes during the holidays. But the poinsettia is a misun­ derstood plant, and often deteriorates rapidly due to poor care. Poinsettias are showy tropical shurbs native to Mexico and (EXTENSION) People AMml both Central and South America, arriving in the United States from Mexico in 1825. The bright red, white.-or pink "flowers" are actually modified leaves called bracts. True flowers of the poinsettia are located within these colored bracts, and look like small, yellowish beads. Despite popular beliefs, the poinsettia is not poisonous. The idea of poinsettias being poisonous began around 1919, but there is no medical literature to support this. Ex­ tensive tests conducted by researchers at Ohio State University in the early 70's found no symptoms of toxicity of animals due to poinsettias. The bright-colored bracts visible now were induced several weeks ago by giving plants several hours of unin­ terrupted darkness each night. Without this treatment, the plants would not produce colored bracts because this process is triggered by complete darkness (long nights) for several weeks. If this schedule is interrupted, even if only briefly, the process of change will stop. This is why many plants carried over from the previous year fail to change colour With proper care, the poin­ settia purchased or received as a gift this holiday season can stay in good shape for several weeks. Place the plant near a sunny window, where it can receive plenty of bright indirect sunlight. The ideal temperature range is above 60 degrees but below 75 degrees. Poinsettias are quite sensitive to drafts and fluctuating temperatures. Thus, avoid areas near entrances subject to cold drafts and keep the plants away from radiators, heat ducts, or fireplaces. If possible, place the plant in an area with relatively high humidity, as excessively dry air is harmful. Poinsettias will also suffer when placed in poor light. Proper watering is also essential in caring for poin­ settias. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid letting the soil get bone-dry, but never leave the pot in standing water for any length of time. If the plant came wrapped in foil, make sure drainage is adequate by pun­ ching a few holes so water isn't trapped inside. Dropping of leaves or bracts and wilting are signs that the plant is not being cared for properly. Make necessary changes to help meet the plants' needs. After several weeks of being in bloom, however, the plant will naturally begin to show these symptoms. For additional information, contact the McHenry County Extension Office at 789 McHenry Ave., P.O. Box 431, Woodstock, 60098. Phones: (815) 338-3737 and 338-4747. REWARD! UNCLAIMED SCHOOL SEWING MACHINES • l [Domestic's Education Department placed orders in anticipation of large school sales. Due to budget cuts these sates were unclaimed. These machines must be sold! All machines offered are the most modern machines in the Do­ mestic's line. These machines are MADE OF METAL and sew on all fabrics: Levi's, canvas, upholstery, nylon, stretch, vinyl, silk, EVEN SEW ON LEATHER! These machines are new with a 25 year warranty. With the new 1984 Domestic you just set the color-coded dial and see magic happen. Straighht sewing, zigzag, button-holes (any size), invisible blindhem, monogram, satin stitch, embroidery, applique, sew on buttons and snaps, topstitch, elastic stitch, professional serging stitch, straight stretch stitch...all of this and more. Without the need of old fashioned cams or programmers. Your price wi th thej ad $198, without this ad $529. Cash or check. PUCE: Timbers Restaurant • Woodstock, IL (US 14 & RTE 47) 1790 S. Eastwood Dr. DAY: Thursday, Dec. 13th Mb}\M+ Sponsored by DOMESTIC MARKETING SECTION3-PAGE 3- iDNESDAY.DECFJ