BCG Member Spotlight: Leslie

This is Leslie’s first season at the Benson Community Garden, but you’d never guess it by looking at her plot. With a sturdy cattle panel trellis supporting vigorous vines of butternut and spaghetti squash, she’s already showing off some serious gardening chops. “I’m most excited about the butternut squash that’s setting fruit right now,” she says, beaming with pride.

Leslie brings a practical and hard-working spirit to the garden. During the week, she works in the livestock sales industry, specializing in medications and supplies for pigs. Originally from southwest Oklahoma, she’s lived in Nebraska for a decade, with the last eight years rooted in Omaha—long enough to start calling it home.

When she’s not tending vegetables or checking her charming solar-powered bumblebee lights, Leslie is what she calls a “serial hobbyist.” “I tend to pick up a hobby and go full force into it for a couple of years,” she laughs. Past obsessions include pour painting, crochet, and curating a substantial succulent collection—an impressive list that shows her creativity doesn’t stop at the garden gate.

And if you happen to see a large black, white, and brown dog by her side, that’s Rocky, her sweet (and slightly shy) Bernese Mountain Dog. He may be reserved at first, but like Leslie, he’s always happy to be part of the community.

Welcome to the garden, Leslie—we’re glad you’re here!