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Opening Night for a New Community

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-905379.mp3

Macomb, IL – A new community has sprouted in western Illinois. It's centered around a small piece of land roughly one-fifth of an acre in size.

The land is home to Macomb's community garden. About two dozen people gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony and the planting of the first vegetable - a tomato plant.

Margarita Obregon bought one of the plots. She hopes to enjoy nature, make new friends, and hone her gardening skills.

"I think it's going to be a wonderful experience," said Obregon. "I feel great already."

The community garden can be found at the Macomb Park District's new 80-acre park on University Drive. The garden plots measure 10 x 10. One plot costs $20. Additional plots cost $10 each.

Co-organizer Rob Porter says it's not too late for people to get involved. Inquiries can be made by contacting him at macombgardens@gmail.com or (309) 298-1967.

"You can be planting cauliflowers and broccolis and cabbage and lettuce in August that can be harvested into October and maybe into November," said Porter. "We have plenty of space left."

Porter said organizers still hope to receive a "Community Food Initiatives" grant from the USDA.

Porter said the Food Initiatives Group made a donation to help start the project. He also credited the help of volunteers.

In addition, co-organizer Joel Gruver praised the initial group of those who bought plots.

"All of you are going to help create what happens here," Gruver told the opening night gathering. "We have built a bit of a foundation. But what really happens will be because of what you guys do."

There was a lot of laughter and a sense of excitement on opening night. It was clear a feeling of community was already taking root in the garden.