As Anthony Semenovich plays guitar, Murielle DiBiasi, center, and Ann Sears, right, kick up their heels during the Aug. 3rd Community Barbecue Cookout in Palermo. Submitted photo

PALERMO — The Community barbecue cookout held Aug. 3 at the Palermo Community Garden.

Anthony Semenovich, on violin and guitar, inspiring some to dance as people finished their desserts and relaxed under the canopies and in the grape arbor.

Many local businesses contributed to the success of the cookout, including Hussey’s, Lakeview Lumber, Bass Pro Shop, and B & B Septic. Ann Sears collected many personal donations of gift cards, handmade items, and tools. There were a couple of anonymous donors as well, whose support is appreciated.

The community garden helps to supply the food pantry with freshly picked, organic produce. The back garden not only features the grape arbor, but also showcases interplanted herbs and vegetables in 15 raised beds. Master Gardener Connie Bellet likes to introduce colorful and unusual plants to expand the Maine diet.

The Giant Kossack kohlrabi is a good example of a sweet and versatile vegetable not found in grocery stores. Another example is Mountain Red Orach, a burgundy spinach-like plant that grows to 8 feet in height and is rich in anthocyanins. Both of these vegetables are offered at the food pantry, and visitors are welcome to take a tour of the garden. To scheduled a tour call Bellet at 207-993-2294.

The $1,970 raised will help the foundation resume programs and add others.

Suggestions are welcome; for more information call or email Bellet at pwhitehawk@fairpoint.net.

Check out upcoming area events!