COLUMBIA, SC – A New Green Space Blooms in the Community!
Exciting news for nature lovers and community enthusiasts alike! The Joseph S. Azar Community Garden at T.S. Martin Neighborhood Park is officially open! This vibrant garden is not just a beautiful sight; it embodies the hard work and dedication of both seniors and children in the local community. It’s a testament to what can happen when people come together for a common goal.
Rooted in Community Values
City of Columbia Councilman Ed McDowell expressed his heartfelt sentiments during the opening ceremony, sharing, “This garden represents not only the concerted efforts of seniors and children, but it also represents who we are as a community, and as a city. As we continue to grow and bloom and blossom in ways that are necessary for fruitful living.” Isn’t that just lovely? It truly captures the essence of what this garden means to everyone involved!
The garden’s purpose goes beyond just adding a splash of greenery to the neighborhood. It’s an active space where vegetables will be cultivated, providing fresh produce for local community members. What’s even more special is that students from nearby schools, like W.A. Perry Middle School and C.A. Johnson High School, will have opportunities to learn about gardening through this hands-on experience. The motto, “You can only harvest what you plant,” serves as a guiding principle for everyone participating.
A Tribute to a Remarkable Individual
Why is this garden so meaningful? It’s named in honor of Joseph S. Azar, a local advocate and businessman who left a lasting impact on the community. His daughter, Tommye Martin McMillan, fondly recalls her father and the joy this garden would have brought him. “Oh, they would just be overjoyed, overjoyed because they were both people-persons. Mr. Azar started a reading program, and my daddy always committed his life to serving kids. He developed a grant to help children,” she reminisced.
Azar was a man of action, having run for city council and even mayor during his lifetime. Those who knew him remember his passion for volunteering and his commitment to uplifting others. His cousin, William Akel, shared, “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! But that’s where he was coming from. It came from the heart.”
Location and Opportunities
The gardening project is located at 2700 Edison Street in Columbia, creating a lovely environment for locals to enjoy and engage with nature. With classes and workshops on the horizon, community members can enrich their knowledge about gardening and healthy eating.
The overwhelming excitement from everyone involved is palpable. Residents are looking forward to the continued growth of this community space, where not only vegetables will grow, but also invaluable connections among neighbors. It’s a space for learning, sharing, and nurturing both plants and relationships.
Join the Green Movement!
If you’re in the Columbia area, why not take a trip down to the Joseph S. Azar Community Garden? Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting out, there’s room for everyone to get involved. If you’re searching for a way to give back while enjoying Mother Nature, this is the perfect opportunity!
As the garden flourishes, it’s expected to become a symbol of hope and cooperation—a true reflection of the community spirit in Columbia. Let’s embrace this thriving garden and continue working together to nurture not just plants, but a healthier, happier community!
