On a dreary, cold and windy morning along the waterfront this week, we may have thought twice about getting volunteers out to help us with a task. But then we remembered: It wasn't raining, and gardeners are a hearty bunch.
More than 50 volunteers joined us this year for the seventh annual "Dig In for the Downtown Waterfront."
From small children and high school students to downtown workers and those who are employed over the hill, to retirees and downtown residents -- they all pitched in to lend a helping hand in planting flowers to beautify the Duluth Downtown Waterfront District.
It's been great over the years to see so many people show a sense of pride in their community and want to give back to the downtown area. Many of these individuals are repeat volunteers who are so well in tune with the project that they start digging in the dirt as soon as they see our line-up of 180 streetscape planters in Bayfront Park.
And this year's crowd may have worked even faster due to the cooler conditions. Who would have known you could plant more than 4,500 plants in 180 streetscape planters in approximately 45 minutes?
ADVERTISEMENT
This beautification effort also shows the importance of partnerships.
Thanks to the generous financial support of property owners in the Duluth Downtown Waterfront District, the cost of purchasing the flowers is covered, as well as the summer-long care and maintenance by our Clean & Safe Team.
The city of Duluth is maintaining various flowers gardens throughout the area, and city crews are using heavy equipment to move all the planters out onto the sidewalks of the Downtown Waterfront.
Now more than ever, partnerships and volunteerism are playing an important role in our community. Whether it's lending time to organizations, recruiting teams to adopt a park or beautifying your neighborhood, all are in true need during these economically challenged times.
If you are looking for a way to make a difference, contact your favorite organization or go to the city of Duluth's Web site at www.duluthmn.gov to find a project.
And thank you.
Kristi Stokes is the president of the Greater Downtown Council in Duluth. Contact her at 727-8549 or by e-mail at kstokes@downtownduluth.com .
