So I have this story in today's Miami Herald about a very cool gardening project in Overtown, a gritty Miami neighborhood.
Ironically, even if you don't live in South Florida, if you've ever watched an episode of A&E Network's murder documentary series, The First 48, or a Rick Ross music video, you might still be familiar with Overtown.
Anywho, the story is about an organic garden in the middle of Overtown. And I don't know about you, but I admit that in the past when I've heard people in the so-called "concrete jungle," boasting about their organic garden, I've usually found one of two things: Either the "garden" turns out to be a half-dried 6x6-foot patch of dirt with Charlie Brown's Christmas tree growing out of it, or the garden turns out to be the product of obnoxious yuppies who planted it only as a conversation starter, for when they have well-heeled "green" friends over to visit.
So when I first heard about the Overtown organic garden, I was skeptical. I was thinking "This neighborhood has issues. Who gives a crap about a garden?"
But then I went and saw it. It's not a dry patch. It's nearly an entire city block and is in the process of expanding to two more full city blocks.
It employs people in the neighborhood. And is thriving so much, that at least one major grocery store chain is considering doing business with this garden. It is a beautiful space that is spreading the vibe.
So if you have a minute, follow the link at the beginning of this post and check out the story.
BTW, don't forget to follow me at: http://twitter.com/jamesburnett.
a great (GREAT) idea coming to fruition.
Posted by: Pamela | October 21, 2009 at 03:26 PM
20+ years ago when i was at university there was a park that had an extensive vegetable garden but it was all for show. you weren't allowed to pick anything. what a waste it was
Posted by: insomniac | October 22, 2009 at 09:33 PM