On Monday, November 16, 2009, Fayette County Master Gardener Volunteers celebrated a successful year by taking off their gardening hats and gathering together for a recognition banquet.  It was an honor to host State Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator Pamela Bennett as the keynote speaker. She thanked volunteers for their valuable contributions and inspired them to continue learning.  She revealed that an hour of volunteer time in 2008 has a value of $20.25.  This year Fayette County MGVs volunteered over 1042 hours with 39 active members.  According to Bennett this is a $21,100 value to the community.

A delicious feast was prepared by 3 Moms catering and served in the Little Red School House on Fayette County Fairgrounds. Marlene Rankin shared a moving invocation. A committee, headed by newly elected president Michele McMurray, prepared wonderful appetizers and decorated to make the occasion festive and fun. 

After the meal was devoured, awards were presented proudly to hard working Master Gardeners by coordinator Kim Stover as follows:

1.  5 year Service broaches: Brenda Caudill, Carolyn Essman, Jim Essman, Sandra Gruber, Judy Kehl, and Jeanne Smith.

2.  Interns who have finished 50 hours of training and service: Joy Bishop, Lena Perry, and Debbie Roby.

3.  2009 Officers: President- Pat McGilly, Vice President- Vincent Chrisman, Treasurer- George Shoemaker, Secretary- Carolyn Essman, and Historian- Carolyn Shoemaker.

4.  Intern of the Year: Debbie Roby (lawn bag)

5.  Golden Trowel Award: Exceptional worker- Michele McMurray.

6.  Green Thumb Award: Best represented our organization as a gardener and horticulturist- Jeanne Smith (garden knife).

7.  Educator of the Year Award: Sandra Gruber (laser pointer)

8.  Fayette County Master Gardener Volunteer of the Year/ Carol Sowers Award: Excellent example of Master Gardener Volunteer- Jim Essman.

If you would like more information on the Fayette County Master Gardener Program please visit www.fayette.osu.edu or call OSU Extension Office at 740-335-1150.