By David Fleet
Editor
Goodrich- Village resident Nancy Steele’s notoriety has now grown to a new level.
Steele, who has cared for the village gardens and flowers since 2002, was selected to receive the 2009 Community Hero Award. The award will be presented at the 2010 Community Beautification Leadership Conference at noon March 6 at the University Center at the University of Michigan-Flint.
Founded in 2004, the Keep Genesee County Beautiful is the first affiliate of Keep America Beautiful in the State of Michigan. The program is funded by the Ruth Mott Foundation in partnership with the United Way of Genesee County and University Outreach at the University of Michigan-Flint.
Steele was nominated for the award by Village Administrator Jakki Sidge and Atlas Township Supervisor Shirley Kautman-Jones
‘Nancy has created a beautiful floral landscape in the village,? said Jakki Sidge, village administrator. ‘She plans the flower beds and planters with care so they bloom all year-round. We receive many compliments from citizens. We are all very proud of Nancy for her achievement in winning this award. She loves what she does and it shows. She is creating her legacy.?
A master gardener, Steele said it’s a big job but the community has been very supportive.
‘Thanks for the award,? said Steele, a village resident for 32 years. ‘Over the years there’s been some vandalism and people drive vehicles over the flowers, but most of people are pretty good’very positive comments regarding the flowers in the area, ?
During 2009, Steele said about 50 flats of annuals were planted in areas along M-15, in pots downtown and in hanging baskets on the Hegel Road Bridge. In addition more than 300 tulip bulbs were planted which should start popping up in the spring.
Nancy and husband Jack have three children Al, Amy, and Katy, all attended Goodrich High School.
‘God is the master gardener,? she said. ‘I just help.?