By ANDRE LUD

Bette Midler continues to be known as a diva – but now she’s busy serving as the “Diva of Dirt.” Forlorn and neglected public parks in New York City are now verdant– thanks to Bette’s environmental initiatives.

EXCERPT

AS THE ELECTRIFYING PERFORMER who wowed crowds at the Continental Baths, the singer who made “The Wind Beneath My Wings” a number one hit, the film actress who brought fans to tears as “The Rose” and to laughter in “The First Wives Club, “Bette Midler achieved unquestioned cult status early in her career. She’s now extending her considerable influence to help cultivate the public park experience. As the founder and moving force of the New York Restoration Project, the Divine Miss M has become the Big Apple’s philanthropic Diva of Dirt.

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