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COLUMBUS – What started out as an attempt at creating a new hobby turned into a charitable campaign as a local man, Keith Michalk, grew a sizable crop of tomatoes at his home and has donated the plentiful yield to several service organizations around the city.
“The appreciation is overwhelming,” Michalk said.
Over a span of 35 days, master gardener Michalk grew nearly 800 pounds of tomatoes and other fresh produce in his own personal garden, with several different types and styles. Overall, he has grown over 1500 pounds of fruits and vegetables in his 4000 square foot garden.
Michalk’s specialty, heirloom tomatoes, is the crop he spends much of his time producing. Gathering methods of growing and even collecting tomatoes from other countries, he has turned himself into an expert of the various tomatoes and their methods of growth.
“They come in different flavors and several different colors,” Michalk said, “Some are smoky, salty and fruity tasting.”
Since having so much yield, Michalk has dedicated his time and energy to making sure the service organizations of Columbus and Colorado County are the ones who benefit the most from his crop. He went on a campaign to donate his signature heirloom tomatoes to several service organizations including the US Postal Service and its employees, the county transit authority, the Sheriff’s Office, the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department and the Columbus Community Hospital employees. He has also donated to impaired and disabled residents and many others as well.
“It really makes them feel appreciated for all they do in Columbus,” Michalk said of his donation campaign, “It’s nice to do something for all these nice people in public service.”
Michalk’s crusade to provide produce to the service members and residents of Columbus is part of his wider belief to support others, especially those who support the community.
“Through their efforts, Columbus is a better place for all walks of life,” Michalk said.
As he continues his campaign to donate hundreds of pounds of produce, Michalk will be preparing himself to get ready for the fall, where he hopes to have another successful yield and more contributions to the service people of Columbus.
