Bette Midler and 50 Cent have indeed joined forces. Before you get your hopes up on a “Divine Miss M in Da’ Club” album, take a breather.

Midler and the rapper have combined non-musical efforts to help restore parts of New York. The two worked on a garden in Queens. 50 grew up in the neighborhood and Bette got him involved in the project and they opened “The Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson Community Garden.” Curtis Jackson, 50’s real name, gave over $200,000.

“I love 50! I called and nagged him,” Midler said, describing how she got 50 Cent involved with the garden. “His G-Unity Foundation gives a million dollars away every year in grants to non profits all over the city … They’re just brilliant.”

He was actually happy to help out. Of course he understands the power that Midler holds.

“I wish I had this to come to when I was growing up around here,” he said. “The opportunity to create this garden for the youth and the community is a great one. [Besides] When Bette calls you don’t say ‘no.’ Not if you want your reputation to stay the way it is.”

I adore Bette Midler. “Hocus Pocus” should have one an Oscar.

[People]