Victory Garden at City Hall

Last year I had a chence to interview John Bela, who is part of REBAR, the artist's collective that first conceived of PARK(ing) Day. He was a delight, smart and commited to making the world mor walkable, greener, and this is his new project!

After 10 days of incredible action—sod removal, bed and ground preparation, installation of irrigation lines and fencing, the building of a fantastic soap box—the lawn in front of San Francisco’s City Hall was transformed into the Slow Food Nation Victory Garden. It was a perfect planting day as 150 volunteers helped moved nearly 4,000 plants into their new homes. Teams divided into zones with their leaders and peacefully planted lettuce, tomatoes, beans, herbs, flowers and so much more. Good thoughts and prayers (including those from the next-door religious meeting) were had by all. Together, we built a “garden of communities,” as Victory Garden Manager John Bela calls it.

Written By Naomi Starkman

photos: Scott Chernis