The Van Buren County Master Gardeners enjoyed their annual Holiday Luncheon at the Fairfield Bay Town Hall Center and recognized many deserving individuals Monday, December 8, 2014. This was the first time in our 16 year history to present some long overdue awards. 49 total active members contributed 3,305 volunteer hours to projects in Van Buren County in 2014. Nine members worked 100 hours or more.
7 members were recognized for serving as president: Beverly Stancil, Bob and Sharon Berdine, Marolyn Reck, Steve Smith, Eleanor Hilsenrath, and Verna Hicks, 7 members for keeping their longtime Spirit active, and 25 for leadership. The crowning awards were presented to Steve Smith , Master Gardener of the Year, contributing 175.5 hours and Karen Mulder , Rookie Master Gardener of the Year, working 110 hours. The members of the Class of 2013 were praised for their 687 volunteer hours.
The 2014 Master Gardener Class was welcomed: Willard Tripp, Nancy Tripp, Julie Magadanz, Dena Gray, Mary Michaels, John Hiegel, Kathi Owens, and Marc Liberty.
Pictured is Steve Smith, Karen Mulder