In this inspiring episode, Ginain Grayes welcomes Monica Petrella, a passionate advocate for local food systems and Food System Program Coordinator for Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems. They dive into the importance of community gardening, the benefits of homegrown produce, and how individuals can contribute to a sustainable food system.

Key Topics Discussed

• Monica's Urban Gardening Journey: Transitioning from believing she couldn't garden due to space limitations to thriving in balcony gardening with the help of EarthBox systems.
• Benefits of Urban Gardening: Monica highlights the sustainability, accessibility, and health benefits of growing one's own food, even in limited spaces.
• Introduction to Homegrown Hillsborough: Monica discusses the role and mission of Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems and encouraging community gardening efforts.
• Food Insecurity in Hillsborough County: The discussion delves into the issue of food insecurity, its impact on communities, and how local efforts can make a significant difference.
• Getting Involved with Local Food Systems: Monica offers insights on how individuals can support and engage with their local food systems, emphasizing the importance of community participation and education.
• Recipe Share: Monica shares a simple yet delicious recipe for cherry tomato bruschetta, showcasing how to use homegrown produce to create healthy, flavorful meals.

Resources and Links

• Homegrown Hillsborough: Learn more about their initiatives and how you can get involved in supporting your local food system. Homegrown Hillsborough - Hillsborough County - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS (ufl.edu)
• Take the Residential Food System Survey
• UF/IFAS Extension: Discover classes, workshops, and resources offered by the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension service. UF/IFAS Extension Website
• EarthBox website: Planting Boxes | Container Gardening | EarthBox
• Recipe for Cherry Tomato Bruschetta: Dive into Monica's easy recipe, perfect for making use of your garden's bounty.

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

8 roma tomatoes, diced

⅓ cup chopped fresh basil

1 ounce Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

¼ tsp kosher salt

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Gather all ingredients
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
3. Brush bread slices on both sides lightly with 1 tbsp oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 5 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Toss together tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Mix in balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper.
6. Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread slices.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Links & Contact Info:

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