Best Petal Pusher

Flower-power is key in the makeover of a neglected Kansas City street.

From Reader's Digest

Change Text Size

Change Text Size
|
Bookmark

Bookmark

Del.icio.us
Digg
Reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
|
Print
|
E-Mail

More on:

When decoupage artist Durwin Rice moved back home to Kansas City, Missouri, six years ago, he discovered that Troost Avenue -- famous as the place where Walt Disney launched his career -- had grown dingy after years of neglect. Rice's brainstorm: Plant thousands of tulips in honor of the street's namesake, Benoist Troost, a 19th-century Dutch immigrant and physician, entrepreneur, and city councilman.

With private donations and local business support, Rice and hundreds of volunteers rolled up their sleeves and started planting. Today the tulip trail on Troost boasts over 150,000 flowers of 80 varieties -- with many more to come. "By 2010 we want to have planted a million tulips," says Rice. "We're sort of rebranding the street. Who can't love tulips?"

Back to the Best of America Homepage

From Reader's Digest - May 2008

Should Everyone Read This?

Yes! I vote for this story

Your Comments

See all

...

Post your comment Cancel

How Your Dentist Can Save Your Life
The dentist may be the most important doctor you see this year.
12 Tips to Create a Sleep Haven
Don't just fall into bed. Use these guidelines to make your bedroom a place of utter respite.
Granite Tile Kitchen Countertops
Granite tile gives you the appearance of a solid-stone slab at one-third the cost. We'll show you the techniques for a first-rate job.
Mind Over Money
In tough times, psyching yourself up to save is even more important. Here's how.
Classic Pergola
Get more shade with this low-maintenance retreat.

Fresh content for this Thursday, May 15, 2008

1. Smart Eating

Chocolate's Secret Benefits

rd.com

2. Critical Cause

How to Help
China's Earthquake
Victims

redcross.org

3. Enlightening Podcast

The Mortgage
Crisis Explained --
Really!

thisamericanlife.org

4. Culinary Slideshow

Playing With Food

nytimes.com

5. Cute Video

Otters Holding Hands

youtube.com

More "Daily 5s": Yesterday | This Week

Best of America Home >

Browse by Year
2008 2007200620052004

Best Rare Books
An international hiking trip turns into an act of good will.
Best Change Agent
Putting your change in these parking meters may help change someone's life.
Best Headlines
These outrageous headlines made us look twice.
Best Win for Democracy
Americans are experiencing a newfound enthusiasm for politics.
Best Light Touch
These teens had a bright idea to save electricity.
Best Caregiver
When serious illness strikes the children of single parents, this foundation eases some of the pain.
Best Deal on Wheels
These low income job seekers find out that transportation can make or break their chances at employment.
Best Curves
Arizona is home to this miraculous jewel of nature.
Best Guided Tour
A father and son take a special trip to visit rare wildlife.