Woman earns lifetime achievement award from master gardeners

From staff reports

news@joplinglobe.com

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Glenita Browning, of Carthage, has received a 1,000 Hour Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ozark Gateway Master Gardeners.

She took the Master Gardener class offered through the University of Missouri in 1995 and since then has donated more than 1,100 hours of volunteer horticulture service in the area.

The honor was presented during a recognition meeting this month.

Janet LaFon, Master Gardener program coordinator for the university in Jasper County, said Browning is the first person in the local program to provide at least 1,000 hours of volunteer service.

Also receiving awards were Lou Anne Herron, of Joplin, Rookie of the Year; Pat King, of Carl Junction, Community Service Award; Stan Bell, of Wentworth, Coordinator’s Service Award; and Debbie Fedie, of Carl Junction, Betty Holland Volunteer of the Year.

Recognized for completing Master Gardener certification by donating 30 hours of service were Mel Anderson and Debby Pearson, of Carthage; Charlie Bentlage, Lou Anne Herron, Ande Houser-Merrell, Lee Rodriguez and Ted Strote, all of Joplin; Mary Claflin, of Bronaugh; Chuck Evans, of Miller; Gloria Gubser, of Sarcoxie; and Becky and Kirby Plank, of Goodman.

The Master Gardener program starts with 30 hours of classroom instruction. Participants then are asked to donate at least 30 hours of volunteer service in their communities within the following year.

During 2007, local Master Gardeners donated more than 3,000 hours, LaFon said. Details: LaFon at the Jasper County University Extension Center, Carthage, (417) 358-2158.