The clink of jars and the scent of simmering tomatoes filled the Ray County Library as neighbors gathered to learn a skill once considered second nature during the latest of the Community Connection series. At the center of the room, Special Needs Services Executive Director Suzan Breen guided participants through the process of turning fresh harvests into meals and preserves meant to nourish more than just the body. “Some of these folks also volunteer to help us in our community garden, where we give back the produce to the community,” said Breen. “The idea is to get healthy food, nutritionally dense food, back in the hands of folks, and also to teach people who don’t know that have some interest.” The community garden, tucked on Southpoint Drive past the water tower, was donated space from a landowner who originally offered up acres. Breen explained the project only needed a modest plot, though the harvest has been anything but small. “It’s 65 feet by 65 feet, which is still…