Garden Column for the Salisbury Post

Darrell Blackwelder

December 17, 2004

     Members of the Rowan County Master Gardener Volunteer Association put down their trowels and gathered this week for their annual Christmas Social. The social was a time to relax but also recognizes those that had contributed much to the organization and the community. The association comprises Master Gardener Volunteers that have completed the initial course and continues to contribute by volunteering to educational efforts to North Carolina Cooperative Extension Horticulture program.

     Elaine Hewitt, president of the Rowan County Master Gardener Volunteer Association has guided this group for the past two years.  She was recognized for her leadership with a certificate of appreciation and the 2004 Silver Can Award. In every volunteer organization there are those that are willing to donate extra time and effort for both the organization and the community. Master Gardener Volunteers that fall into these criteria are called “Silver Cans".  Hewitt implemented viable association by laws and was instrumental in designing and developing the Enabling Garden at the West End Horticultural and Demonstration Garden.  Other recipients of the 2004 Silver Can Award are: Steve Hooper-for the heirloom tomato research project and other greenhouse activities, Preston Askew-for his role as treasurer and actively participating at the West End Garden, Sheila Hoffmeister, for creating and maintaining the wetlands study at the West End Horticultural and Demonstration Garden and successfully chairing the annual Master Gardener Plant Swap and Sale.

     Incoming president Sonja Skelton was also recognized for her contributions to the new Junior Master Gardener program. Also receiving accolades for exceptional contributions to the Junior Master Gardener Program were Bill Carangelo and Rebekah Walls.

     Other incoming officers of the organization for 2005 are: Melissa Eller-vice president, Martha Mincey-secretary, Preston Askew, treasurer and Richard Wagner and Bill Carangelo as Co-Historians.

     Mrs. Carole Massey was also recognized for her contributions as the Rowan County Master Gardener Coordinator. The part-time position, funded by the Blanche and Julian Robertson Family Foundation, often becomes over-time job during the busy season.  Rowan County is one of the few counties in the state fortunate enough to have private support for this position and dedicated volunteers such as Massey.  Master Gardener Volunteer contributions are quite evident and much appreciated.  

Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. For archived garden columns or other information, visit the Rowan County Master Gardener web site at www.rowanmastergardener.com , e-mail Darrell_Blackwelder@ncsu.edu