"Patriotism on the Farm," by Raquel Bowley

Today, our thoughts turn to soldiers, so it is the right time to report on a project to recruit veterans to be farmers - an occupation that can use their youth, strength and discipline.

Organic Gardening magazine writes that the nonprofit Farmer-Veteran Coalition has been contacted by more than 130 veterans and active duty service men about becoming farmers, and 30 already have farms or are in the process of starting one.

It is a California organization that homes to take this effort nationwide.

It is a win-win situation, the magazine writes. Soldiers return to uncertain employment, the farming population is aging and can use the strength of those under the age of 30. And the country is demanding more and more locally grown or organic food.

In addition, those who return from war with wounded hearts can find peace and solace working the soil.

Posted by Susan Reimer at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Garden good works
        

Photo credit: Baltimore Sun/ Barbara Haddock Taylor

In today's Baltimore Sun, I am writing about the Garden Club of Glen Arm, whose members visit the Morningside House assisted living center every other month to make flower arrangements with the aging and fragile residents.

This month, the residents made artificial Christmas arrangements for their dining room tables, and a natural arrangement for their own rooms.

Everyone was astonished at the talent in the room!

Posted by Susan Reimer at 8:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Garden good works