Opinion : To the Editor: Thanks to our quiet gardening contributors

By Frank Van Steenhuyse

There is a quiet, behind the scenes, hard-working group of people in town who contribute so much to our community but yet go mostly unnoticed. Some work alone.

Some work in groups. Some belong to clubs. They spend a lot of time on their knees. They get dirty and sweaty. They often have sore backs. They have trouble getting their hands clean. They usually work before and/or after normal working hours. They make Vinton prettier. They add color and a welcoming feel to the downtown, the courthouse and the Welcome to Vinton signs. They contribute to economic development by making Vinton a nice place to visit by beautifying assorted city parks and the Ray House.

They help educate our school children with the outdoor classroom at Tilford. They work with the FFA and the Vo-Ag classes at the high school. They raise money to put right back into beautifying our community.

They are the Vinton Garden Club, the Cottage Garden Society and the many individuals who enjoy working with flowers and plants who do so much to brighten and add color to our town. Thank you for all your hard work. Vinton does look better because of what you do and it is a better place to live, shop and raise a family because of you. 

In appreciation, 

Frank Van Steenhuyse, Vintno