It seems that the topic of conversation as of late is the increase in the price of gas. It's hard enough just to make ends meet with regular bills, then you tack on the unexpected gas hike and, wow! Before you know it, you have no money left.

It seems that the price of gas is starting to have a ripple effect on the prices of everything around us, as well. I heard on the radio that the prices of pork and chicken are expected to rise in the next few months due to the increased costs of feeding the animals. Beef prices are already higher, and I have also noticed an increase in the price of bread.

BUDGET FOOD PREP

Eat Smart NY is a free program that helps families stretch their food dollar and, among other things, teaches families how to prepare healthy foods on a budget. One of the problems that we see very frequently here in Plattsburgh is the price of fresh fruit and vegetables. Our growing season up here is very short and can be very limiting, especially now, with the price of gas. We all know that we should try our best to support local farmers and the local markets, but what can you do if you can't afford the gas to get to these places?

Sometimes it seems that the folks living in the rural areas are "stuck" when it comes to being able to have fresh fruits and vegetables available to them. As Eat Smart NY, we travel to people's homes and work with them in their environment where they feel most comfortable. One of the hot topics during this time of year is gardening. People want to know how to grow their own vegetables and fruit. Cornell Cooperative Extension has a variety of resources available for gardeners of all experience levels.

SAVE MONEY

Container gardening has become very popular among folks living in apartments with little or no land and also for folks who may not have the means to be able to till their land. With container gardening, you can save money at the grocery store not only by having a smaller shopping list but also by making fewer trips to the store, which means using less gas. Container gardening is a very easy and cost-effective way to grow the vegetables you like in the convenience of your own home.

Container gardening means just what it says -- you grow things in a container, which is practical for everyone, young and old. All you need is a container, soil, seeds water and sunlight. You can place the containers anywhere you like, and most of the time you can move them to the best location in your yard. Many vegetables and herbs can be grown in containers.

Ideal vegetables are tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, green onions, beans and lettuce. Herbs that do well in containers include rosemary, thyme, dill, parsley and cilantro.

If you're interested in learning more about container gardening, a workshop will be taught by Anne Lenox Barlow at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Plattsburgh Cooperative Extension Office. The fee is $15, which includes all printed materials. Call 561-7450 for more information or to enroll. You can also go to www.cce.cornell.edu/clinton and download fact sheets on container gardening.