Wednesday, March 3, 2010

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The great tomato plant giveaway raises funds for COB choir By COB WRITER ~ For The Guardian: When College of The Bahamas President Janyne Hodder isn't leading an academy of over 600 faculty and staff and more than 5,000 students, she channels her efforts into another passion that literally bears fruit. A keen promoter of backyard gardening and an avid cultivator, Hodder is quick to share that growing tomatoes is her obsession. In fact she's grown over 30 varieties over the years — from the flavorful Arkansas Traveller and Beauty specimens to the Greek variety Thessaloniki and the Spanish Heirloom, the Valenciano. Hundreds of these plant varieties were radiantly on display on recently at the "Great Tomato Plant Giveaway" on the front lawn of The College of The Bahamas' Oakes Field campus. Donated by Hodder for a worthy cause, it was a perfect way to combine her passion for growing and giving and raise much-needed funding for the college's choir. Blessed with a green thumb, Hodder prides herself on her home garden where not only tomatoes, but beets, melons and cucumbers have bloomed as well. Those who came out were eager to give and their contributions were well received. They enjoyed a refreshing morning with Hodder who provided expert advice on the kind of tomato plants best suited for their gardens and the conditions under which they thrive. They were also invited to purchase some of the college's own compost made at its Poultry Research Unit off Gladstone Road. All this happened while the College Choir entertained donors by performing various folk songs and classics. "We are thrilled that President Hodder has extended these donations towards the college choir. We are planning a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, in March and these funds will go directly towards covering travel expenses," said choir director Christy Lee. "We have an exciting opportunity to participate in a choral workshop in Atlanta that will expose students to the cultural and historical richness of this part of the United States. We appreciate the support of the college and the community." The "Great Tomato Plant Giveaway" also attracted the participation of friends of the college including Lucayan Tropical which provided fresh produce and self-described 'farmer-preneur' Rionda Godet whose model green house and hydroponics system were also on display. The Bahamas National Trust also supported the event and donated green bags from recycled material to eliminate disposable shopping bags. Tuesday February 2, 2010