Only those who have planted can realize the value of growing things.
There’s a tremendous amount of satisfaction that comes from seeing that first bloom or the taste of that first tomato.
It’s these reasons that the Fergus Horticultural Society meets and celebrates gardening.
At the June meeting, the society also commemorated a huge milestone, a long time member’s 90th birthday.
John Carter has always had a strong interest in horticulture. It is with this interest he still plants and harvests a vegetable garden each year.
“He has always had a tremendous interest in agriculture. Beginning at a young age, he joined Junior Farmers and soon after became president of the Wellington County Association,” said Roberta Vlietstra, president of the Fergus Horticultural Society.
The journey from Junior Farmers to the local horticultural society reinforces his strong commitment to all that is agriculture.
“John has held many positions within our society. He has served as president, director, and a member of the “Diggin’ in the Dirt” group since its inception,” said Vlietstra.
Carter can still be seen early Tuesday mornings, tending many of the society’s 26 gardens. Just look for the society’s purple shirts.
Because of his steadfast commitment to our society, “He has been presented with the society’s Lifetime Achievement Award and life membership,” said Vlietstra.
In her closing remarks, Vlietstra reminisced about Carter’s past illustrious political career. He has held numerous positions in local government throughout his life.
She mused about some of the “interesting” situations of the times and of how Carter took the lead in many debates.
Many members spoke of Carter’s ever welcoming hand, “and is constantly looked up too. He is very inspirational and always shares his knowledge. I have been fortunate to visit his vegetable garden many times. John is such a source of horticultural information,” said Kathy Bouma, a former president of the society.
The celebration was topped off with a seasonal delicacy of strawberry shortcake. The local strawberries were from Fergus Gardens.
Fiercely independent, Carter lives in his own home and drives his own car. He will be spending the summer tending his vegetable garden.
Happy 90th birthday, John.
Ron Stevenson is a member of the Fergus Horticultural Society.
