I've been walking my dog past Hayes Valley Farm these last few months, watching the formerly abandoned lot (once the site of the freeway onramp) undergo a miraculous transformation. What's that you smell on the breeze? Compost, my friends. The farm won't be completed until later this summer, but the group spearheading the work has decided it's a fine time to launch the Farm Night Film Series, beginning next Tuesday, May 18. Bring your blanket (or reserve a seat) and prepare for an al fresco evening of films, beginning with shorts from How to Homestead, followed by the feature presentation, Dirt! The movie. Throughout the evening, homemade popcorn and drinks will be available, and one lucky attendee will win an apple tree. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the farm's wheelbarrow fund.

Stop in to see the progress, meet your neighbors and support urban renewal, popcorn in hand.