Roger Knox’s article, “In Praise of Patrick,” reminded me of my first year in retirement in Vernon (1990).
I had won a garden award — it was just a humble patio and window box garden but Patrick Nicol (founder of the Vernon Beautification Awards) along with Queen Silver Star, princesses and the garden president showed up on a Saturday morning to present it. I went on to win many garden awards and had the opportunity to showcase the Taoist Tai Chi gardens in Better Homes and Gardens, but I never forgot that first warm welcome to Vernon.
Patrick Nicol, of course, carried on over the years with his enthusiasm, energy and hard work in the beautification and usefulness of Vernon city parks.
B. Sharon Free
Vernon
