Friday, March 20, 2009

Hooray!!

Great news, everybody! The Obamas are planting a vegetable garden at the White House. I am so happy it actually brings tears to my eyes. Oh and... Need I point out that this, like the whoopie pies, could have happened because of my endorsement? Or that perhaps Michelle and I are clearly trendsetters? The NY Times reports:

While the organic garden will provide food for the first family’s meals and formal dinners, its most important role, Mrs. Obama said, will be to educate children about healthful, locally grown fruit and vegetables at time when obesity has become a national concern.

In an interview in her office, Mrs. Obama said, “My hope is that through children, they will begin to educate their families and that will, in turn, begin to educate our communities.”

Twenty-three students from a nearby middle school will be helping Michelle cultivate and eventually harvest veggies, berries and herbs in a 1,100-square-foot plot that will be visible from E Street. As for the rest of the first family, they will be pulling weeds throughout the growing season. Even Barack. Love this!

The decision to plant a White House garden carries political and environmental symbolism and a message that is not only healthful but, I believe, will encourage local, sustainable choices. Read the details here and here.

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