When Rev. Sylvia offered a plot of land behind St. Paul’s for a Fresh Start garden, our first thoughts were of the fabulous Landscaping Program for the inmates at the West County Jail.   We contacted Sheriff Rupf to find out if there was any possibility of a partnership with St. Paul’s, the Sheriff’s Department and Fresh Start. It seemed like a natural because we often serve the same people.  I have written resumes for people who have learned their job skills while doing time in the Contra Costa County Jails.  Our proposal was for a group of raised beds to grow herbs, which can be sold at the local Farmer’s Markets and to local restaurants.  Since the Sheriff’s Department and Fresh Start often serve the same people, some of those who use Fresh Start are familiar with the landscape program. The enthusiasm for this program is great and we are all excited about our new partnership.  Our thanks to Rev. Sylvia, St. Paul’s, Sheriff Rupf and the Sheriff's Department, the Sheriff's Posse, Commander Joe Caruso, M.J. Robb & The Gallo’s, and always, Alice.    May 2009 update Our gratitude to the following individuals; Peggy and Horace Crawford, Jackie and Rudy Ceragioli, Tom Byrom, Bob Baker, Larry Pasquale, George Clark, Jim Dahl, Tom Porter and The San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church Mens Breakfast Group who donated their hard work, plants, seeds, drip irrigation installation, and tool shed to Alice's Garden. And of course, Todd Cambra, for his dedication in overseeing Alice's garden.     We will be posting more pictures as the garden grows and blooms.                       Our Wish List for Alice's Garden: Ground Cover – Redwood or Chips Seeds Vegetable & Herb Plants & Seeds:  Heirloom Tomato, Parsley, Italian parsley, Cilantro, Chives, Tarragon, Rosemary, Savory, Ginseng, Aloe,    Sage: all kinds, Thyme: all kinds and Spearmint, Mint - all kinds                                                                                                                                                 Garden Tools and Other Items:     Ph Testing Kit Bird Bath Bird Feeders & Seed Compost Bin Gloves Gift cards for: Any garden store or store that carries garden items, tools, plants, seeds, dirt, etc. Monetary contributions can be sent to: Fresh Start: Alice’s Garden 1924 Trinity Ave. Walnut Creek, CA  94596          To make a donation to Alice's Garden PLEASE CLICK HERE!