Master Gardeners recognized for community service

CRESTVIEW — The Okaloosa County Master Gardeners held their 17th annual awards program March 28 at the Gerald Edmonson County Extension Building.

The ceremony honored Master Gardeners in several categories, such as service to youth and community outreach. The group also recognized volunteers that reached various service milestones in 2017.

Lannie Corbin, who has served as Niceville’s City Manager for 46 years, received the 2017 Friend of the Master Gardener Award.

Master Gardeners are volunteers that undergo training on gardening and horticulture from extension offices throughout the country. They then can act as trained experts, working with citizens in their communities on a variety of gardening-related topics.

Okaloosa Extension agent Larry Williams presided over the awards luncheon, which also hosted Deputy County Administrator Kay Godwin and County Extension Director Pam Allen.

The following is a full list of awards and recognitions:

2017 Master Gardener of the Year

• Karen-Kirk Williams

• Joe Michetti

• Lee Vanderpool

2017 Friend of the Master Gardener Award

• Lannie Corbin

2017 Outstanding Service to Youth Award

• Lynda Penry

• Jennifer Yelverton

2017 Outstanding Telephone Communicator

• Bill Buckellew