Columbia Celebrates New Community Garden Opening!
In a heartwarming event, the city of Columbia officially opened the doors to the newly established Joseph S. Azar Community Garden at T.S. Martin Neighborhood Park. This vibrant garden symbolizes the unity and collaboration of the community, bringing together both young and elderly residents to plant the seeds of hope and sustainability!
A Garden with a Purpose
As Councilman Ed McDowell expressed during the opening ceremony, “This garden represents not only the concerted efforts of seniors and children, but it also represents who we are as a community.” With this community garden, city leaders aim to cultivate fresh vegetables, benefiting local families in need and creating educational opportunities for students at nearby schools, including W.A. Perry Middle School and C.A. Johnson High School. The garden promotes a wonderful mantra: “You can only harvest what you plant.”
Honoring a Local Legend
Dedicated to the late Joseph S. Azar, a cherished community advocate and businessman, this garden serves as a living tribute to his legacy. Azar was known for his boundless energy and passion for volunteering, having touched the lives of many through his initiatives. Azar’s daughter, Tommye Martin McMillan, shared her heartfelt sentiments, saying, “Oh they would just be overjoyed, overjoyed because they were both people-persons.” She fondly recalls how her father started a reading program and devoted his life to enhancing the lives of children in the community.
The Spirit of Giving Lives On
The garden is not just a patch of land; it’s a canvas painted with Azar’s spirit of giving. His cousin, William Akel, shared some insightful perspectives on Azar’s character. “I think one of the things about Joseph, you know they always say you don’t get involved in too many things, unfortunately he did.” It’s true, Azar had a hard time saying no because his love for his community overflowed. Every project he took on came from the heart as he strived to give back more than he could often manage.
What’s Next for the Garden?
The garden is expected to be a hub of activity, bringing students and community members together to learn about gardening, cooking, and the importance of local produce. It will not only aid in providing fresh vegetables but will also be a space to share stories, build friendships, and appreciate the beauty of nature together.
So, grab your gardening gloves and get ready! This unique initiative, located at 2700 Edison Street, invites the whole area to participate in sowing and harvesting. Anyone interested in getting involved or learning more about what the community garden has to offer can stop by and explore the possibilities.
Join in the Fun!
The opening of the Joseph S. Azar Community Garden isn’t just a new attraction in Columbia; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together, to learn, and to celebrate the values that make our city special. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, there’s something for everyone in this blooming garden.
Come witness how your community can grow and flourish—together. With its sweet aroma of fresh vegetables and delightful chatter, the garden beckons you to be part of this newest chapter in Columbia’s vibrant story. So, prepare to dig into some hands-on fun and experience firsthand what it truly means to plant seeds of hope and community spirit!
