By Jamye Durrance

For Hometown News

DAYTONA BEACH - A few months ago, when Holly Hill resident Ravi Kaur and her husband Richard Bennington decided they wanted to start an organic garden, they didn't think it would be a difficult task to complete.

That changed when the couple found out there were no stores in the area that sold organic products.

"To us, it sounded like a big opening," Ms. Kaur said.

Two months ago, they opened Access to Organics on Mason Avenue in Daytona Beach. The store offers not only organic produce, but also organic gardening products and cleaning supplies.

"I'm really happy with the store," Ms. Kaur, a vegetarian for 40 years, said. "I don't think organic is a trend. I think it's going to become mainstream."

All of the produce is grown by local farmers, Mr. Bennington said.

The couple also teaches classes on how to start organic gardens and sells kits to help growers from every spectrum start eating healthy.

"An awful lot of folks realize that going after commercial food is not going to work," Mr. Bennington said. "If you grow your own, it's quite a nice hobby."

Mr. Bennington said in his own life, he noticed an immediate change when he switched to a healthier, more organic-based diet.

"I feel great, seems to be working," he said. "It tastes better. It's much more flavorful and has a good nutrient value."

Both Ms. Kaur and Mr. Bennington said there is a common misconception that eating healthier is more expensive.

"I couldn't afford not to eat organic," Mr. Bennington, a retired electrician, said.

Ms. Kaur, a nurse, said if there was a larger demand, costs would lower even more.

"You are nurturing your body and you body is going to thank you," she said.

Eating organic and living an organic lifestyle helps everyone, Ms. Kaur said.

"You're not adding harmful toxins to your home or soil," she said. "You help restore the land and water quality."

Since opening two months ago, Mr. Bennington said they've seen a steady demand for everything they sell.

"We're excited people want to do these things," he said. "We've had a great response all across the spectrum."

Ms. Kaur said her long-term vision includes building a green shopping center where several green businesses can be located together.

"We hope that we grow," she said. "We want to provide more services and serve the community in a positive way."

Access to Organics will hold a grand opening celebration this Saturday, Nov. 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be tastings, door prizes, special give-aways and one-day discounts.

The store is located at 347 Mason Avenue, just west of Ridgewood Avenue. For more information, call (386) 236-9447 or visit accesstoorganics.com.