Title
Proclamation recognizing the Allegheny East Mental Health & Mental Retardation Center's grand opening of Allegheny East Specialty Produce on June 7, 2007.
Body
WHEREAS, on June 7, 2007, Allegheny East Mental Health & Mental Retardation Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides clients with quality, life-enhancing services that promote wellness and the development of human potential, will open Allegheny East Specialty Produce; and
WHEREAS, the project began in 2004 as a social business venture, with a primary goal to create vocational training and employment for Allegheny East consumers. In addition, the project provides alternative financial support for the agency, thus reducing its reliance on government funding; and
WHEREAS, Allegheny East Specialty Produce is situated on 3.5 acres of the Yough River Trail Gardens in Buena Vista, Pennsylvania. The park, which is handicapped accessible, includes a therapeutic flower garden and a 24-foot outdoor pavilion complete with electricity, water, bathrooms and parking; and
WHEREAS, the 3,000 square foot facility is the region's only hydroponic greenhouse. This greenhouse is Pittsburgh's premier high-tech, controlled environment agricultural facility that provides the exact environmental conditions needed for plant growth; and
WHEREAS, the greenhouse produces a wide selection of specialty lettuces. Distribution to grocers and high end restaurants started in January through Paragon Monteverde, and now consumers can purchase produce through the Community Supported Agriculture Program sponsored by Penn's Corner Farm Alliance. Through this program, members can receive high-quality, locally grown produce and dairy products delivered weekly to the East End Food Co-Op;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Allegheny County Council does hereby commend Allegheny East MH/MR, Inc. upon the momentous occasion of the grand opening of Allegheny East Specialty Produce. This Council applauds th...
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