Friday evening, July 16, the Auburn Community Garden Club summer potluck was at the home of Neil and Yolanda Kerr.  Each year at this time the Garden Club awards two special awards to devoted and dedicated members who have spent time during the year in promoting  gardening.

The Turquoise Butterfly Award is given to a member who has given not only to the Garden Club but has also spread their love and knowledge of gardening to the community through volunteer efforts. This year’s recipient of the Turquoise Butterfly Award was awarded to Paul Fish.  Paul, a graduate of the Master Gardener Program and columnist for the Nemaha County Herald, has spread his love for heirloom tomatoes by giving many programs throughout the area. Paul assists each year as clerk for the annual Flower, Garden and Art Show sponsored by the Garden Club and assists with the Master Gardner Booth at the Fair. Paul’s volunteer work has also taken him to the Auburn Memorial Library and historical gardens in Brownville, where he and his wife Kay reside.
And speaking of Kay Fish, besides being the secretary-treasurer of the club for the past three years she is this year’s recipient of the Galvanized Watering Can Award. The winner of this award is a person who has given a lot of time and talent to the club over the years. Kay is also a Master Gardener. She volunteers at the Auburn City Library and historical gardens in Brownville where she puts in many hours of work despite the threat of poison ivy. Kay continues to play a leadership role in the club and will be presenting a program on herbs at the next club meeting Monday, August 9. She has been chairperson for the Nemaha County Outstanding Garden Awards and has put in many hours and advice towards the annual plant sales and Nemaha County Flower Shows.
The club expresses its appreciation to Paul and Kay Fish for their extraordinary service to the Auburn Community Garden Club and the community.