Students sell shrubs to raise money

Warren County High School senior T.J. Cantrell doesn’t usually begin his morning by selling nursery stock. But he was up bright and early yesterday, and at Bobby Ray Elementary by 6 a.m., to do his part in the annual Project Graduation Nursery Sale.

‘I have to get my Project Graduation points,’ said Cantrell on his reason for arriving so early. ‘Hopefully I can get something nice, something I don’t already have.’

Clay Parker and Ryan Watlington were the other two hard-working seniors who arrived at 6 a.m. to face the early morning crowd. They were helped by many other seniors who strolled in at a more reasonable hour.

The nursery sale is the biggest fundraiser for Project Graduation, the all-night bash that takes place at the Civic Center after the WCHS graduation ceremony. The event features games, food, and tables groaning with prizes, among other things.

‘We’re especially thankful to the nurseries around here for their support because it’s been a tough year for them,’ said parent Debbie Watlington. ‘Even though it’s been tough, they were extremely generous with their donations.’

In keeping with tradition, sales were brisk and customers came from all over the Midstate. Project Graduation volunteers reported customers from Nashville, Winchester, Tullahoma, and even a couple from Georgia that was passing through McMinnville.