Bonham -- Few things are as comforting as watching a garden spring to life; just ask anyone in the crowd at Catron Park in southeast Bonham for the unveiling of the city's first community garden.
Bonham Mayor Roy Floyd, Bonham City Manager Corby Alexander, along with Bonham City Council members Ruth Ann Thomas and Wayne Moore joined supporters of the community garden, including representatives of CORE (Citizens Organizing for Resources & Environment) at the event.
This garden is as much the result of an idea that came in contact with the right people as it was seed coming in contact with soil. Monday morning was an opportunity to thank some of the people who helped this idea sprout roots.
Chris Voss, president of CORE, approached Bonham City Manager Corby Alexander about the possibility of a community garden and it was Mr. Alexander who suggested Catron Park as the location and presented the concept to Bonham City Council.
Bonham City Council approved the use of the park, Joe Howdeshell tilled the garden spot, Rachel Van Citters created an eye-catching sign, Irene Grady worked to get donations of equipment and supplies, Scott Lipsett installed the sign at the garden, and Randy Moore, District Conservationist/USDA-NRCS, lent his expertise by having the soil tested and offering layout suggestions. Local businesses who donated to the garden include Wal-Mart, Bonham Hardware, Tractor Supply, and Whitlock Pawn.
"In this age of inner-city food deserts and cheap fast food, it is vitally important to give people who don't have the opportunity to garden a place to grow healthy, local food," remarked Chris Voss, president of CORE. "The Bonham Community Garden is that place for many families in Bonham and there is room to grow! There is no better feeling than picking that first ripe tomato or squash of the season, and there is no better place to do it than at a garden with your friends and fellow community members, working together to make a park into a food oasis."
Chris Voss
Cucumbers!
Special thanks to Irene Grady for PR and organization
Local artist Rachel Van Citters stands beside her creation
Corby Alexander picks a tomato for lunch.
An okra blossom
