ELLSWORTH — The winner of a greenhouse kit will be announced, fittingly, on May 5 — Maine Greenhouse & Nursery Day — in front of Machias Savings Bank as part of the “Spring into Summer” event at the Mill Mall.

Sponsored by newly established Green Thumb Kits in Otis, the company’s first greenhouse prototype was displayed for several weeks next to the U.S. Post Office in Ellsworth.

Contest participants were asked to write a 1,000-word essay about how they would use a greenhouse and how it would help them or the surrounding community. Participation was limited to nonprofit groups in Hancock, Penobscot or Washington counties.

“We have had a great response from many communities and have heard some pretty amazing needs within each of these organizations,” Green Thumb Kits co-owner Jonathan Barneschi related last week. “Some have brought tears to our eyes and others a big smile.”

Green Thumbs Kit staff will be on hand to answer any questions about their product and take orders from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The essay contest winner will be announced at 1 p.m.

For more information, contact Jonathan Barneschi at 479-4142.

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