Dick Andrus was a founder of VINES and it is safe to say that this organization would not be what it is today without him. Beyond clearing trees and taming the slope of Corbett Avenue to build a community garden across from his house, Dick shared his years of knowledge to help others learn to grow food and helped start the grassroots movement that became VINES. He inspired many people in our area to get involved in the food movement, including a number of VINES' staff, interns, and volunteers who took his Environmental Studies classes at BU and found their calling in sustainable agriculture. Dick was passionate, intense but playful, loved a good joke, and had more knowledge than anyone else in the world about Sphagnum Moss. VINES is honored to host a portion of his Remembrance Day.
Please read more about Dick's legacy at Binghamton University and in our community here.
Event Schedule
- 11 a.m.: A remembrance service in the Pollinator Garden, located behind the Harpur College monolith. In case of rain, the event will be held indoors. Please bring your stories to share.
- 11:45 a.m.: A short memorial hike in the Nature Preserve led by Dylan Horvath, the University's steward of natural areas.
- 1 p.m.: A gathering at the VINES Urban Farm, 16 Tudor Street in Binghamton. We will hear more stories of Dick Andrus, his work at VINES and in the community. Light food and beverages will be provided; feel free to bring a dish to pass.
Donate
Those who wish to may honor Dick Andrus' legacy with a gift to either project below:
The Dick Andrus Community Orchard is being established on a Corbett Avenue property donated by Dick and his family to VINES. This spot was home to Dick’s own garden for decades and has a number of already established fruit trees. This space will ultimately grow food for the community and serve as a nursery to fruit trees and bushes that will be planted at community gardens and other spaces around Broome County. Donations may be made through this link.
The Andrus Field Research Program supports upper level students working in the field to gather data for a research project, especially an honors thesis. You can donate by going to this link or mailing a check to Binghamton University Foundation, PO Box 6005, Binghamton, NY 13902. In both cases "Andrus Field Research Program" should be indicated in the comments section of the web form or the memo space on a check.
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