April 7, 2008
2008 GreenNet Green and Growing Fair
What: 2008 GreenNet Green and Growing Fair
When: April 26, 2008 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Garfield Park Conservatory – 300 North Central Park
Cost: FREE Admission – Open to All
Come one; come all to this extraordinary spring event! We have an outstanding line-up for GreenNet's 16th Annual Green and Growing Fair, including the launch of ONE SEED CHICAGO.
As One Book; One Chicago is to reading, One Seed Chicago is to urban greening. With this new program GreenNet invites you to Grow Together. This year's seed is the Sunflower. Imagine thousands of these versatile plants linking together community gardens across the City! Pick up your free seed packet at the Fair, at events throughout the summer or by sending your name and address to info@neighbor-space.org.
This year the Fair will feature several performing artists. Enjoy down home local musicians while eating lunch at the Green Cafe. While roaming through the Conservatory, you'll enjoy a sneak preview of Walkabout Theater's forthcoming play, "War Garden: An Experiment in Patriotic Agriculture." The show, which is co-produced by NeighborSpace, and this summer will be performed directly in community gardens throughout the City, is a comedic exploration of Chicago's wildly popular war garden movement of WWI (victory gardens in WWII).
Get first dibs! Buy the season's first spring vegetables and seedlings as well as seeds, worm compost and other gardening materials and supplies from local growers and vendors. Vendors will also be selling local crafts such as painted pots, notepaper & jewelry (just in time for Mother's Day!)
Enjoy these demonstrations, activities and more:
Basics of composting
Rot Pot seed starting
Home-made solar ovens
LOW COST Tool sharpening by the CHICAGO Botanic Garden's Green Youth Farmers
Community Garden Poster Session – Meet Chicago Garden Leaders
$5.00 Classes on Native Landscaping & Basic Composting
OUR Popular silent auction of garden related items
And….. the launch of ONE SEED CHICAGO: 2008 Sunflower - Come to the Fair to pick up your free seed packet
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:47 AM | Permalink |
April 5, 2008
Help Judge Student Hort Projects at Ag School
Master Gardeners,
The Ag. School could use your help. They are in need of judges for the FFA Section Fair. You would be judging student horticulture projects/specimens.
When: Saturday, April 12
Where: Ag. School - 3857 W. 111th Street
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12 noon
Needed: 8 to 10 people if possible
The judges will be orientated from 8:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Thank you for your consideration.
To volunteer contact Nancy at nkreith@gmail.com
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
cell: 708.567.6101
url: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/
Posted by Ron Wolford at 9:07 AM | Permalink |
April 2, 2008
Kate Needs Help With Youth Programs
Kate Weinans, Youth Program Organizer needs some assistance with the following programs:
Wednesday, April 16th–9 a.m.-2 p.m.
One Master Composter or Gardener to assist an already recruited MC (Ella Russell)
Dunne Elementary- 10845 S. Union, Chicago, IL
Assist in 4 classrooms: 2 Worm Compost Projects with 3rd graders and 2 Lettuce in a Bag projects with 1st graders.
Contact Kate at kweinans@uiuc.edu
Friday, April 18th-- 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
2-6 Master Gardeners
Ag School 3807 W. 111th St
Garden Workday with 80 high school students (and their teacher sand chaperones) in the Demonstration garden and perennial garden.
Contact Nancy Kreith at nkreith@gmail.com
Saturday, April 19th-- 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
1-2 Master Gardeners
Ag School 3807 W. 111th St Chicago IL
Garden Workday in the Demonstration Garden to 6-8 youth from Hull House (teenagers???! think)
Contact Kate kweinans@uiuc.edu
Tuesday, April 22nd- 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
1 Master Gardener 9:00 a.m. -12, noon, 1 Master Gardener 12 noon -3:00 p.m.(Jane Tiffen and Ruth Melulis are already in for MC's)
Daley Plaza 50 W. Washington St
Worm Compost Demonstration for Earth Day
Contact Kate kweinans@uiuc.edu
Friday, May 9th-12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.
1 Master Gardener
Christopher Elementary-- 5042 S. Artesian Chicago, IL
Assist 25 girl scouts re-pot flowering plants for Mother's Day. Anyone with inexpensive crafty ideas to spruce up those boring, cheap plastic greenhouse planters is WELCOME!!!! These will be gifts.
Contact Kate kweinans@uiuc.edu
Kate Weinans
UIUC Extension Youth Program Organizer
3807 W. 111th St
Chicago, IL 60655
Phone: 773-233-0476
Fax: 773-233-0910
kweinans@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:05 PM | Permalink |
April 2, 2008
Common Threads Job Openings
Hello Friends,
We are growing here at Common Threads. As of this coming fall, we will have 17 different cooking classes going on in one week! Crazy exciting! Consequently, we have two openings here at Common Threads. Last summer, I emailed you two job descriptions and ended up hiring three individuals, all of who came from the Common Threads network. So again, I thought I would again go through the friends of Common Threads in search of two amazing people that might complete our family (at least for now)!
We are looking for a Client Service Coordinator and a Program Assistant. The Client Service Coordinator position is a job that requires wearing multiple hats (event coordination, grant writing and other admin tasks) and requires a real people person who is detail oriented. The Program Assistant will be working hands-on with our kids in the kitchen and garden on a daily basis, so this person needs to have a true love of children while also being diligent about coordinating class related logistics.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Have a wonderful day and a phenomenal week!
Linda
Linda Novick O'Keefe
Executive Director
Common Threads
312.752.2680 - office
312.277.9517 - fax
linda@ourcommonthreads.org
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:37 PM | Permalink |
April 2, 2008
Volunteer at Green and Growing Fair
We need volunteers to help with set-up, break down, seed planting demos, silent auction and garden book sale, greeting and information tables, and much more...
Volunteer shifts for the Green and Growing Fair are:
Set up: 6:30 a.m -9:30 a.m.
Break down: 2:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
First Shift: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second Shift 12:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
If you would like to help with this fun event please contact me at hpicciuca@garfieldpark.org or by phone 773-638-1766x24 with your preferred shift time.
Highlights of the 2008 Green and Growing Fair
You will be able to buy the season's first spring vegetables and seedlings as well as seeds, worm compost and other gardening materials and supplies from local growers and vendors.
Vendors will also be selling local crafts such as painted pots, notepaper & jewelry (just in time for Mother's day!)
Demonstrations on...
Square foot gardening
Basics of composting
Rot Pot seed starting
Home-made solar ovens
Community Garden Poster Session
Popular silent auction of garden related items and more
Free Tool sharpening by the Botanic Garden's Green Youth Farmers
$5.00 Classes on Native Landscaping & Basic Composting
Lunch in the Green Café Accompanied by down home local musicians!
The lunch of ONE SEED CHICAGO: The Sunflower Seed!
Thanks so much and hope to see you at the event!
Harmony Picciuca
Garden and Volunteer Programs Coordinator
Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance
300 N. Central Park Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60624
773.638.1766 x 24
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:14 PM | Permalink |
March 30, 2008
MSI Smart Home Garden Docent Training
Hello MSI Master Gardeners,
We would like to extend an invitation to all of you who will be docents during the MSI - Smart Home Garden venture. This training will focus on the docent position. You will be given a guideline/script handout and we will have a role play session during this training. Please consider attending in order to get a step ahead as a docent.
When: Wednesday, April 9 from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Chicago High School for Ag. Sciences (CHAS) - 3857 W. 111th St., Chicago 60655
Room: Music Demonstration Room
Contact Person: Nancy Kreith, cell 708-567-6101
Please reply to this email if you plan on attending.
Every docent will receive the handout whether they can attend this training or not. We will also take the time to briefly train you during your first docent shifts in May and June and on initial planting days.
FYI: All of the plants will be labeled for your reference.
Thank you
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
cell: 708.567.6101
url: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:02 PM | Permalink |
March 28, 2008
Grafting Workshop
Midwest Fruit Explorers
Garden Club for Backyard Fruit Growers
www.MidFEx.org
Arpil 13, 2008
1:00-4:00 p.m.
Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe, IL
Grafting Workshop: Make and take home your own dwarf fruit tree.(Apple and pear rootstocks, grafting knives available for sale.)
Visit our web page www.MidFEx.org for further details about our meeting as well as a wealth of information about growing fruit.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 8:53 PM | Permalink |
March 26, 2008
Smart Home Veggie Garden Planting Day
Congratulations! You all responded in time to be a part of the MSI Initial Planting Day on Tuesday, April 22 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please plan on bringing a lunch. We will provide water, gloves and tools. If you have special tools you would like to use please feel free to bring them. We will break a half-hour for lunch. There is a Subway near by and the Museum Food Court as well.
This day will be a media day for the Smart Home exhibit. If possible, please wear any Master Gardener apparel that you may have. The names listed below are the Master Gardeners who will be present that day. If you were scheduled to come to the Museum on a day before April 22, please consider those dates CANCELLED! We will not start the garden until April 22.
Chris Meier
Kitty Giblin
Susan Davenport
Arielle Corbett
Louisea Story
Tom Janik
Denise Smith
Ellen Caffrey-Garza
Margaret Moore
Sue Rancak
Marilyn Klein
Karen McCray
Martha Bresnahan
Dot Kluzek
John Sweeney
Marjorie Simmerling
Sue Gasper
Rebecca Lian
Joan Jones
Thanks again for working this day into your schedule.
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
Posted by Ron Wolford at 5:10 AM | Permalink |
March 26, 2008
2008 Healthy Sprouts Award
Program Web site: http://www.kidsgardening.com/healthysprouts.asp
Sponsor: Gardener's Supply
Deadline: October 15, 2008
Purpose: The National Gardening Association and Gardener's Supply Company have partnered to support schools and community organizations that use gardens to teach about nutrition and explore the issue of hunger in the United States. The selection of winners is based on the demonstrated relationship between the garden and nutrition education and hunger awareness. At least 10% of the food produced from the program should be donated.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the 2008 Healthy Sprouts Awards, your school or organization must plan to garden in 2009 with at least 15 children between the ages of 3 and 18. The selection of winners is based on the demonstrated relationship between the garden program and nutrition and hunger issues in the United States.
Geographic coverage: Nationwide
Amount of funding: This year we will present awards to 20 schools or organizations. Each program will receive gift certificates towards the purchase of gardening materials from our sponsoring company. The top 5 will also receive a certificate valued at $500; 15 more will each receive a $200 gift certificate; 25 packets of seeds; a literature package from NGA; and Eat a Rainbow Kit.
Application process: Applications may be downloaded from the Program website.
For more information contact:
National Gardening Association 1100 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 Phone: 800-538-7476 (800-LETSGRO) Fax: 802-864-6889
Summaries of funding programs are provided by RAC for your convenience. Please contact the funder directly for the most complete and current information.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:56 AM | Permalink |
March 25, 2008
March Monthly Meeting
Master Gardeners:
Remember that "dark and stormy January night" when we had to cancel our monthly meeting and miss meeting Tim Halbach, from the National Weather Service? Well, he's baaack!
Master Gardener Monthly Meeting
When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25
Where: Community Room of Garfield Park Conservatory
The Schedule:
6:30 p.m. - Pot Luck Dinner
6:45 p.m. - Announcements
7:00 p.m. - Our speaker is Tim Halbach from the National Weather Service.
He will be ready to answer your weather related questions and introduce us to Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, CoCoRahs, www.cocorahs.org
(Ron and I have already approved CoCoRahs activity for Master Gardener Volunteer Credit)
What is CoCoRaHS?
CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive Web-site, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications. We currently operate in many states across the country. If we are not in your state please drop us a line and let us know that you have an interest in participating. This helps us know where a desire exists for the network and where to focus our future expansion efforts.
(Remember for each monthly meeting you attend your earn one hour of Volunteer Credit, and, usually, one hour of Continuing Education.)
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
773-233-0476
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:25 AM | Permalink |
March 25, 2008
Using MG Database Hints
Good morning Master Gardeners,
We soon will be through the first quarter of 2008 and now have 794 Volunteer Hours reported on the NE Region database. It will be easier for all of us if you can report your hours on a weekly/monthly basis.
Here are some hints on using the database:
Reporting your hours on the NE Region Database
1. Get into the Web site at http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/mgdb/
2. When you get the first screen, click on to the create a new account.
Put in your code. (You never use that code again)
That will take you back to the original screen.
3. Now----put in a user name. I usually use my whole name so that I won't forget.
4. Then choose a personal password NOT THE ENTRY CODE
I always use my maiden name, something I won't forget. Keep it simple.
If you cannot remember the user name or password that you chose, contact me and we will set up a new entry code. You will have to begin at the beginning, but you won't lose any hours you have already submitted.
Other things you need to know:
5. Monthly meetings need to be reported in two places:
Under Activities, you may report one hour Volunteer time for attending the meeting. Monthly meetings are listed by date.
The speaker for a Monthly meeting is Continuing Education. Look for it listed by month and the speaker. Usually one hour credit.
6. In hopes of making Continuing Education items easier to find, they are always listed by the month in which they occurred.
7. If you have attended a Continuing Education event that is not on the list, click on to Suggested Continuing Education at the left hand side of your screen, and enter it there. When I have improved it, it will come back up on the database for you to report against. I try to send out emails to let you know when an item you have submitted is up on the database.
8. If you have Volunteer events that are not in the database list, send them to me via email.
I need the name of the event, location address, especially the zip code and date. As usual, I'll let you know when it is ready for you to report against.
9. Sometimes when you click into Enter Activities, a long list of all Activities ever entered into the Database comes up. Click onto the term START DATE and the items will appear on a calendar list. Much easier.
Remember, I'm only an email away.
Elizabeth
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:59 AM | Permalink |
March 25, 2008
MG Intern Training Schedule
Good morning Interns,
This is the schedule for the rest of our MG Intern Classes.
Wednesday, March 26 - Organic Day (no quiz) - we meet at Garfield Park Conservatory.
You will receive a copy of your final exam-(open book)
Wednesday, April 2 - Fruits with Dr. Ogutu, Ag High School
Wednesday, April 9 - Final day
Both your final exam and your Fruits quiz are due. YOU MUST HAVE ALL EXAMS FROM ALL CLASSES COMPLETED AND RECORDED TO EARN A COMPLETION CERTIFICATE.
Plans for final day:
Collect all exams - we will probably correct the Final Exam together.
Training on reporting Volunteer Hours on NE Region Database: Elizabeth
Training on Plant Clinic Research: Beth Botts, Jackie Paine, Bill Ratton
POT LUCK LUNCHEON
Awarding of Completion Certificates (we should be done by 1:00 p.m.)
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:56 AM | Permalink |
March 25, 2008
Invitation to MG Organic Day
Master Gardeners,
Wednesday, March 26, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. is our annual ORGANIC DAY training with our current Intern Class. You are invited to come and join us for the day and earn Continuing Education credit. This class meets at Garfield Park Conservatory.
Speakers for the day:
Kirsten Akre - ABC's of Organic Gardening
Ron Wolford - Worm Composting
Beata Welsh and Sue Cubberly - Rain Gardens
See you Wednesday at Garfield Park Conservatory
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:54 AM | Permalink |
March 25, 2008
Polaris Charter Academy Green Day
Polaris Charter Academy, a new public charter school located on the west side of Chicago, is seeking an instructor for their spring fundraiser on April 26th.
This family friendly event will delve into the intricacies of green gardening, as well as make participants aware of the school and it's experiential approach to learning. They are in need of instructors who could speak on any of the following topics:
Flower arranging with native plants/flowers
Designing a butterfly / herb / bird / rain garden
Designing water elements for your garden
Pest resistant gardening
The session would run from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and consist of 10-20 adult participants. A hands-on, interactive workshop is desired (materials for all participants would be provided). A small stipend and lunch would also be included.
Interested parties should contact Tracy Kwock at tkwock@pcachicago.org
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:43 AM | Permalink |
March 22, 2008
Drawing Plants Class
Who: General public, volunteers, lovers of nature
What: Drawing plants, this four session sketching class will help you see nature the way an artist does. Combining drawing skills and plant observation, you will learn how to draw what you see. If you haven't drawn a line, this is a great time to begin. If you love to draw, join us. There is always more to learn. Instructor Bernadine Basile spent many years teaching as a Professor of Art at Towson University, Maryland. She is a University of Illinois Extension Master Garden Intern. Her garden is now her passion, and she loves relaxing in it and drawing what she sees. Pre-register today.
When: Class dates April 7, 14, 28 and May 5. All classes: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where: University of Illinois Extension
5527 Miller Circle Drive, Matteson, IL 60443 Conference Room.
How to sign up: Pre-register by April 3. Class size limited. $20 for the series, check payable to University of Illinois Extension.
Call 708-720-7500, speak to the secretary to sign up or e-mail
Nancy Pollard, Horticulture Educator pollard@uiuc.edu
Materials to bring to the first and each class:
Spiral drawing pad, smooth texture, medium or heavy weight. 9" x 12" or 11" x 14"
Sketching kit composed of:
Drawing pencils: 6B (very soft), 4B, 2B, and HB (hard)
Gum Eraser or White Plastic Eraser either leaves minimal smudging
Kneaded Eraser for erasing and toning
Pencil sharpener or Exacto knife to give points to pencils
Optional: Paper Stomp or Tortillion for blending graphite in drawings
Possible source for sketching kit (no endorsement intended): Michaels (in store only) had a sketch kit for around $5 packaged by Loew Cornell, basic starter set SKU 89241 13318. (Not available on web or we would have ordered them for participants.) Other vendors and brand names can be substituted.
Nancy Pollard
Horticulture Educator
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:58 PM | Permalink |
March 19, 2008
Garfield Park Conservatory Celebration
Master Gardeners,As part of their 100th anniversary celebration Garfield Park Conservatory is holding a special community night on Thursday, April 10, 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at Garfield Park.
Because of our special partnership with the conservatory, we have been invited to host a Master Gardener table with just Master Gardener information. If you are especially proud of being a Master Gardener and our involvement with GPC, this may be the volunteer opportunity for you.
Also, GPC is giving away small fern plants that evening. We will be talking about fern plant care.
Contact me to volunteer. Thank you.
Elizabeth
ebruhns@sbcglobal.net
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:24 PM | Permalink |
March 18, 2008
Macy's Flower Show Volunteers
Thursday, March 20 we begin our second weekend of the Macy Flower Show. The first weekend was very successful and I know this one will be also.
Here is our crew for the three days. On Easter Sunday, the Easter Bunny works, we do not.
Thursday, March 20: Wil Rutt, Don Nekrosis and Gigi Leonard
Friday, March 21: Susan O'Dell, Peggy Coon, Deb Cullen and Marilyn Witney
Saturday, March 22: Joyce Schmitz, Cathy Bereual Sinkers and Terri Masterson
Meet me at the 7th Floor visitors center at 10:00 a.m. You can leave your coats there.
We did not have many people on the tours last week and Master Gardeners did a lot of just being out in the show answering questions. The blue fact sheet that Mayo gave you is very helpful for tour information.
See you this Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Thanks to David Depue and Karen McCray who will fill in vacancies on March 28 and 30.
Elizabeth
ebruhns@sbcglobal.net
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:13 PM | Permalink |
March 18, 2008
Master Naturalist Project Organizer Position
Greetings:
The new Master Naturalist project organizer position will be based in the Matteson office. This will be a new program in Cook County. We will be collaborating with the Forest Preserve of Cook County, the Field Museum and Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens. Other partners may join us in the future.
On the state level, IL Master Naturalist is collaborating with the Illinois Natural History Survey, the Nature Conservatory, various U of I departments and the Illinois Steward Magazine, and others. Cook County is one of several piloting this program over the next few years.
The closing date for applications for this position is April 15.
Here are the links to two county Master Naturalist pilot sites that are already in place:
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/champaign/mn/index.html
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/rockisland/mnaturalist/index.html
Nancy Pollard
Horticulture Educator
Cook County / South Suburban Unit
5527 Miller Circle Drive, Suite A, Matteson, Illinois 60443
phone (708) 720-7500. fax (708) 720-7509
email pollard@uiuc.edu
http://cook.extension.uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:23 AM | Permalink |
March 17, 2008
Independent Projects Sheet
Master Gardeners,
Every year, you, as Master Gardeners, do many independent gardening projects with churches, nursing homes, schools and pocket parks. Of course, you earn Volunteer Hours for your projects. This year we are making a special effort to keep better track of your independent projects. We also want the University of Illinois Extension Cook County/Chicago Master Gardener Program to gain more recognition for what our Master Gardeners accomplish in your neighborhoods and communities.
This is what you will need to do:
1. Complete and return the Independent Project information sheet.
2. Request, and then send us, a short letter from your contact person acknowledging your project as a Master Gardener project.
(When we receive these, we will list your project on the NE Region Database for you to report against)
3. Keep track of your Volunteer Hours so that you can transfer them onto the database once your project is listed.
You, as Master Gardeners, do tremendous work enhancing your community with knowledge and plants. Thank you. And, thank you for making this extra record-keeping effort. We need this information to validate your efforts to our County Director, to our state legislators and to the general public.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
3807 West 111th Street
Chicago, IL 60655
773-233-0476 -Fax 773-233-0910
url http://cook.extension.uiuc.edu
MASTER GARDENER BLOG-
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/blogs/eb6/index.html
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:50 PM | Permalink |
March 10, 2008
Project Exploration Job Announcement
Title: Youth Development Coordinator
Reports to: Director of Programs
Supervises: Students and interns
Project Exploration Background: Cofounded in 1999 by paleontologist Paul Sereno and educator Gabrielle Lyon, Project Exploration is a nonprofit science education organization that works to make science accessible to the public– especially minority youth and girls–through personalized experiences with science and scientists. Project Exploration meets its mission through youth development programs, services for schools and teachers, and public programs such as exhibits and online initiatives.
Summary of the Position: By utilizing personalized experiences and support, the youth development coordinator is responsible for recruiting and retaining students to Project Exploration's core youth programs, developing and implementing youth programs, and encouraging and supporting students to participate in science leadership opportunities within and outside of the organization.
Core Programs Management:
Junior Paleontologists Program
- Develop, plan, coordinate, and implement all aspects of a three-week classroom and field program for high school students on the topics of geology, anatomy, and paleontology.
- Recruit, interview, and select students and train team leaders for the program.
- Revise and create documents for recruitment, curriculum, evaluation, and wrap-up as necessary.
- Provide various year-round supportive services for participants
Dinosaur Giants Program
- Coordinate and implement an interpretive training program for high school students to earn community service learning hours as volunteer docents at a local museum/exhibit.
- Assist in the coordination, development, and facilitation of training sessions for the Dinosaur Giants program, including recruitment and scheduling of students.
- Identify, recruit, and train part-time staff to serve as on-site coordinators that will implement the program at a local museum/exhibit.
Youth Development Programs and Science Leadership Opportunities:
- Plan, coordinate, and implement a minimum of four annual youth development events and programs for all students to participate in.
Coordinate and implement a summer internship program for two to three students at theUniversity of Chicago Fossil Lab.
Identify, develop, and coordinate science leadership opportunities for students to participate in throughout the year.
Provide on-going support regarding college/career pipeline.
Program Administration:
- Update and maintain student database and student contact information.
- Work with teachers and administrators from partner schools to recruit and retain students to all core youth programs.
- Track students' participation in annual programs and create attendance reports
- Develop, implement and analyze evaluation of student's participation
- Research and implement best youth development practices in all programs.
Minimum Qualifications:
- BA/BS degree in education, social services, or science.
- At least three years experience working with youth in an urban setting.
- Excellent verbal and written communication and organization skills.
- Strong facilitation skills and the ability to communicate information to youth and adults effectively and efficiently.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
- Able to plan, prioritize, and coordinate divergent areas of work and juggle several tasks simultaneously.
- Certification in youth development practices preferred.
- Knowledge of the Chicago Public School system preferred.
- Experience in coordinating and facilitating overnight/in-the-field events for youth.
- Ability and desire to work in a team environment as well as work independently.
- A valid IL driver's license and access to a car is required
- Working occasional weekends and evenings and a willingness to travel out of town, overnight should be expected.
Salary: Competitive; excellent benefits and professional growth opportunities
Position begins: June 1, 2008.
Send cover letter, resume, references, and salary history to:
Director of Operations
Project Exploration
950 East 61st Street
Chicago, IL 60637
773-834-7625 fax
No phone calls, please.
For more information about Project Exploration, visit www.projectexploration.org
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:48 PM | Permalink |
March 10, 2008
School Projects Coordinator Job
Consortium to Lower Obesity in Chicago Children is looking to hire a School Projects Coordinator. This person will work to strengthen CLOCC's relationships with schools and Chicago Public Schools, staff the school systems working group and coordinate future efforts for CLOCC's role in the area of school-community connections. I think ideally they want someone who knows quite a bit about working the in's and outs of Chicago Public Schools. If you know anyone that might be interested, please send them our way.
http://www.childrensmemorial
Anna Barnes
Youth Coordinator
Consortium to Lower Obesity in Chicago Children
2300 Children's Plaza #157
Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: 312-573-7766
Fax: 312-573-7825
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:30 PM | Permalink |
March 6, 2008
Smart Home Volunteer Sessions at MSI
Dear Master Gardeners,
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Smart Home: Green and Wired exhibition. Due to the amazing number of applicants I have decided to hold three new volunteer orientations. These orientations will be designed specifically for Master Gardeners. The March 8th session is no longer available. You will need to attend an orientation before beginning your volunteer service. The three new session dates include:
Thursday, March 13 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 22 from 10:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Monday, March 24 from 10:00 – 2:30 p.m.
At orientation you will learn about the volunteer program, the mission of the Museum and take a tour of the facility. We will also cover the specific logistics of the Master Gardener position and address any questions or concerns. Refreshments will be served.
Space to each orientation is limited (approximately 32 people) so please RSVP to one of the above dates as soon as possible. You may RSVP by sending an email (preferred) to matt.porth@msichicago.org or by calling 773.753.1382. Please specify the date of the session you would like to attend. I will notify you if that session is already full. Registration for each session will close at noon two days prior with priority given to those signed up to assist with the initial plantings in April. I cannot accommodate volunteers that do not RSVP.
Please park in the Museum's east parking lot (outside of the Henry Crown Space Center), which has a turnoff on Lake Shore and Science Drive. Please enter the building through the Henry Crown Space Center and let the security officer know you are attending The Smart Home orientation session. I will arrive at 10:00 a.m. to begin the session. If you walk to the Museum or take public transportation (www.transitchicago.com) please walk to the east lot and enter through the Henry Crown Space Center.
All volunteers must submit a completed volunteer application before they can officially start the program. If you have not yet mailed or faxed in yours, please download the attached version and bring it to the orientation you attend.
Cordially,
Matt Porth, Volunteer Programs Manager
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:13 AM | Permalink |
March 6, 2008
Volunteer at Doolittle School
Kate Weinans, our Academic Hourly, will be doing "Lettuce in a Bag" projects with youth and daycare students on:
Tuesday, March 11
2:30 p.m. -5:30 p.m.
Doolittle Elementary School
Kate needs two volunteers as assistants. She will bring all the materials. You can meet her at the site.
Contact her directly to volunteer: civicparty@gmail.com
or call the office and leave a message with Julie at 773-2330476.
JoinKate for the fun!
Details about parking, best school entrance, etc, will be available by this Friday.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:57 AM | Permalink |
March 6, 2008
Museum of Science and Industry Volunteer Applications
This is a reminder that your Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) volunteer application has to be turned in to Matt Porth ASAP. If the Museum does not receive your volunteer application by next week you will be dropped from the Smart Home volunteer list. Matt needs to get these forms processed ASAP.
We will be in touch regarding the Master Gardener volunteer orientation dates at the Museum.
If you misplaced you volunteer form please contact me ASAP.
Volunteer forms can be mailed to :
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60637-9976
(PUT MG VOLUNTEER ON THE ENVELOPE)
or Fax to: 773-753-1357
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
Office: 773.233.0476
Fax: 773.233.0910
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:39 AM | Permalink |
March 6, 2008
Become a TreeKeeper
TreeKeepers are volunteers who have become certified by Openlands to give trees the care and maintenance they need to thrive in the urban forest. Classes are taught by professionals from the Morton Arboretum, Chicago's Bureau of Forestry, the Chicago Park District, Chicago's Department of Environment and private arboriculture experts. Discover some things that may surprise you: tree roots grow outward from the trunk near the surface, not down deep into the soil; one of the worst enemies of city trees is the lawn mower; trees can drown and suffocate. Receive hands-on training in pruning, planting and mulching. Learn what makes trees sick and what keeps them healthy. Acquire techniques to tell one species from another–even without their leaves!
This seven-week course for adults is offered twice a year–in spring and fall–at various locations throughout the City of Chicago. Class topics include: Benefits of Urban Trees, Tree Folktales and Myths, Tree Physiology, Learning to Know Trees by their Latin Names, Tree Species Identification, Common Tree Diseases and Insect Damage, Hands-On Pruning, Right Tree in the Right Place, Planting and Mulching. Students who attend all seven classes, pass a final exam and hands-on skills tests for pruning, mulching and planting become certified TreeKeepers. They then become part of an informed volunteer corps that convenes regular workdays to care for city trees in public parks, on city streets and at other public sites.
Tuition of $80 includes materials, guest speakers, and certification upon completion of course requirements. Two graduate credits are available for teachers. For more information and to find out when and where the next classes will be given, contact TreeKeeper Jim at (312) 863-6259 or click here for the brochure. See Events Calendar for a listing of TreeKeeper workdays.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:52 AM | Permalink |
March 6, 2008
New Schools Online Web Sites
The University of Illinois Extension has just released two new Web sites for students.
The first, Fresh From the World...Where Your Food Comes From, is for third-fifth graders. It discusses 15 different popular foods and explores their histories and origins. Students can gain a new understanding about the food they find in the grocery store and the fact that it sometimes comes from other parts of the world.
You can visit this site at http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/food/
The second new site -- Riding the Winds with Kalani -- is designed for 5-8 year olds to gain knowledge about weather. The site provides information on basic earth movements, seasons, clouds, precipitation and temperature. Animations have been added to enhance the learning of the weather processes. It also includes color pages, games and activities that reinforce the concepts.
You can visit the site at http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/kalani/
It is the first of a three part series on weather. The next site in development for 9-12 year olds is "The Tree House Weather Scientists." We hope to release it later this year.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:32 AM | Permalink |
March 2, 2008
Angelic Organics Job Opening
Dear Friends:
We are very excited to announce that the Learning Center is now accepting applications for an Urban Initiative Program Coordinator! The position will be based in the Chicago office.
We are seeking a responsible, highly organized individual to join our urban initiative team to assist with community food system projects and urban agriculture training. At least three years of related experience is required. This position starts at 20 hours a week in April 2008 with the possibility of a full-time position with benefits by July 2008.
Applications must be received by 3/15/08. Visit www.learngrowconnect.org click on "Now Hiring" for the full job description and application info.
Rasha Abdulhadi
Program Coordinator- Urban Initiative
Angelic Organics Learning Center
Chicago Office
6400 S Kimbark Ave
Chicago, IL 60637
Office: 773-288-5462
Fax: 425-969-0317
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:57 PM | Permalink |
February 27, 2008
Slots Open for Smart Garden
Hello Master Gardeners,
These are the slots we still have available for April, May and June at the Museum of Science and Industry. We are scheduling 2 Docents for each shift, 2 Groomers daily, and one historian on Saturdays and Thursdays. We are more concerned with filling these earlier dates, but there are many openings in July - Oct. General information and all job descriptions can be viewed in the forms and downloads section of the Chicago Master Gardener Web site.
Each MG must sign up for at least four shifts. Please send me your top six picks/dates and I will do my best to get you scheduled (first come-first served basis). Please let me know if you have questions.
Saturday, April 5 10am-4pm Planter
Saturday, May 10 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 13 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 13 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 13 9:15am-12:15 Groomer
Thursday, May 15 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Saturday, May 17 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Saturday, May 17 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Saturday, May 17 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 20 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 20 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Thursday, May 22 Time Flex Historian
Saturday, May 24 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday, May 27 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Tuesday, May 27 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Thursday May 29 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Saturday May 31 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday June 3 9:30-12:30 Docent 1
Thursday, June 5 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Saturday, June 7 9:45am-12:45 Groomer
Saturday, June 7 Time Flex Historian
Tuesday, June 10 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Tuesday, June 10 12pm-3pmDocent 2
Saturday, June 14 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Saturday, June 14 9:45am-12:45 Groomer
Tuesday, June 17 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Tuesday, June 17 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Tuesday, June 17 12pm-3pmDocent 2
Tuesday, June 17 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Thursday June 19 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Tuesday June 24 9:30am-12:30 Docent 1
Tuesday, June 24 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Thursday, June 26 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Saturday, June 28 12pm-3pm Docent 2
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
Posted by Ron Wolford at 9:11 PM | Permalink |
February 25, 2008
February Monthly Meeting: William Moss
William Moss, Master Gardener Class of 1996, and now a radio, TV, and Web site "Gardening Guy" will be our speaker at our February 26, Master Gardener Monthly Meeting.
We often tell Master Gardener interns that becoming a Master Gardener can change one's life. This is certainly true for William Moss. Come and hear his story, and get some practical gardening information too. His topic will be Using Bulbs in Your Landscape.
Check out these web sites for more information on William Moss:
http://www.garden.org/urbangardening/
Master Gardener Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Community Room, Garfield Park Conservatory
6:30 p.m. - Pot Luck Dinner
6:50 p.m. - Announcements
7:05 p.m. - Speaker - William Moss
Using Bulbs in Your Landscape
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:34 AM | Permalink |
February 24, 2008
Macy Flower Show Events and Duties
Good morning, Macy Flower Show Volunteers,
The time for Macy's Spring Flower Show is fast approaching, so thanks to all of you for volunteering to be part of this special event. Here is a summary of events and duties. Please read it carefully.
Dates:
Thursday, March 6
9:00 a.m. Installation of the 'hardscape' for the show with designer John Jones. All volunteers invited.
Wednesday, March 12
8:00 p.m. - Pre-show - "Tasting Party" - Walnut Room
9:00 p.m. - Pre-show - walk through with show designer, Steve Podesta
Thursday, March 13 - Show opens.
Duties:
During the eleven day run of the show, Master Gardeners will provide three guided tours each day. Each tour will last approximately 20 minutes, with tours beginning at 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Master Gardeners will host an information booth from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, through Sunday. There will be appropriate Extension horticulture brochures. Master Gardeners will answer gardening questions.
Perks:
Lunch in the Walnut Room
Thank you reception
Pre-show tour and orientation
Free parking-because of congestion, we are asked to take public transportation if possible
Logistics:
1. Enter the store at the Randolph Street entrance, nearest to State State. You will be checked in by security.
2. Extension personnel will be there each day with lunch and parking vouchers. (As soon as I know which parking facility to use, I'll let you know)
3. Plant list to follow.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:26 PM | Permalink |
February 24, 2008
Listen to Garden Teleconferences
The American Community Gardening Association offers a series of excellent recorded teleconferences on their Web site. These are 90 minute conferences that have 1 to 3 speakers. Topics covered include garden fundraising, garden leadership, school gardens, fundraising and immigrants and community gardening.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 8:07 PM | Permalink |
February 24, 2008
Master Gardener Database Tips
Good morning Master Gardeners,
It is a new year and you are already hard a work making Chicago a more beautiful place!
Many of your have made a New Year's resolution to enter your Volunteer hours weekly or monthly. Thank you. We already have over 350 hours reported for the year 2008.
If you still are not up on to the database, please contact me and we will set up an instruction time.
Here are important hints for using the database:
Monthly meetings need to be reported in two places:
Under Activities, you may report one hour Volunteer time for attending the meeting. Monthly meetings are listed by date.
The speaker for a Monthly meeting is Continuing Education. Look for it listed by month and the speaker. Usually one hour credit.
In hopes of making Continuing Education items easier to find, they are always listed by the month in which they occurred.
If you have attended a Continuing Education event that is not on the list, click on to Suggested Continuing Education at the left hand side of your screen, and enter it there.
When I have approved it, it will come back up on the database for you to report against. I try to send out emails to let you know when an item you have submitted is up on the database.
If you have Volunteer events that are not in the database list, send them to me via email.
I need the name of the event, location address, especially the zip code and date. As usual, I'll let you know when it is ready for you to report against.
Remember, I'm only an email away.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:27 PM | Permalink |
February 24, 2008
Organic Curriculum Instructor Wanted
The Chicago Christian Industrial League, in partnership with Windy City Harvest, an exciting new urban agriculture jobs training program on Chicago's west side, is seeking an experienced instructor to work with its first class of 15 adult trainees starting in September. This program is based on a custom curriculum covering organic, four-season production of high end produce, bedding and ornamental plant production for landscaping and other uses, and outdoor seasonal growing. Hands-on activities in both greenhouse and outdoor settings are an integral part of the 50-week classroom and on-the-job training program, which enrolls trainees as continuing education students of the City Colleges of Chicago. Most trainees will come from work-challenged backgrounds and have overcome a history of substance abuse or incarceration.
Windy City Harvest is a partnership between the Chicago Christian Industrial League, the North Lawndale Employment Network, the Chicago Botanic Garden and key funding agencies. Program goals are based on the implementation of a successful, sustainable production operation and associated green industry training and employment activities.
Job Duties:
Adapt written curriculum as needed for delivery in classroom and hands-on production setting
Develop extension activities that enhance curriculum training and content knowledge
Teach and supervise trainees daily between 9-3 p.m. and coordinate personnel issues with Windy City Harvest case management staff
Coordinate transition from city college training site to new pilot greenhouse with program production manager in December 2007/January 2008
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree from accredited institution
Minimum two years of experience teaching adults
Experience in the horticulture industry and/or organic agriculture production
Experience in working with and teaching alternative learners
Salary and Benefits:
Competitive compensation package
The Chicago Christian Industrial League is seeking to fill this position as soon as possible. Please send resume and cover letter to employment@chicagobotanic.org.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:28 PM | Permalink |
February 18, 2008
Welcome Julie Perteet
The Urban Gardening staff would like to welcome our new secretary, Julie Perteet to the University of Illinois Extension. Julie will be splitting her time between our Chicago High School for Agriculture Sciences office and our Greenwood offices. Please welcome Julie to Extension when you call.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:09 PM | Permalink |
February 17, 2008
Thank You: MaryAnne and Chris
I would just like to thank Electronic Plant Clinic Master Gardeners MaryAnne Spinner and Chris Kelsy for taking time last Sunday to appear on Mike Nowak's WGN Radio's, Let's Talk Gardening Show. MaryAnne and Chis did a great job answering gardening questions with the always funny Mike Nowak.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 5:27 PM | Permalink |
February 17, 2008
Macy Flower Show Crew Questions
Macy Flower Show Crew:
Thank you for your quick replies, but I see that I was not nearly specific enough on the information that I need to make up the security lists for Macy's. Please email this specific information.
Will you volunteer on the date assigned to you? __________
Will you attend the Hardscape installation at 9:00 a.m. on March 6? ____________
Will you attend the "tasting" reception and walk through, 8:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. on
Wednesday, March12? (This is a very important event) _______________
Sorry for the confusion. Please answer ASAP.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:36 AM | Permalink |
February 14, 2008
Have Fun With Bugs
Master Gardeners,
Please consider volunteering for the following event:
Date & Time
February 21, 2008 (9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.)
North Kenwood Oakland Charter School
Chicago, Illinois
Description
Join Extension staff and Master Gardeners to learn about the wonderful world of insects in the Traveling Bug Bash. Students will be able to touch and hold live bugs. Bugs include: millipedes, Madagascar hissing cockroaches and a tarantula (spider).
If you have any questions about this program, feel free to contact Nancy Kreith at 773-233-0476.
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
cell: 708.567.6101
url: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:13 PM | Permalink |
February 9, 2008
Master Gardeners on WGN Radio
Master Gardeners,
Two of our own Master Gardeners, MaryAnne Spinner and Chris Kelsey, will be guests on the Mike Nowak (also a Master Gardener) Show, Let's Talk Gardening, this Sunday, February 10, 12 noon - 2:00 p.m. on WGN 720 AM radio. MaryAnne and Chris are members of our Electronic Plant Clinic.
Treat yourself, tune in.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:30 AM | Permalink |
February 9, 2008
Attend MG Intern Class for Continuing Ed.
Hello Master Gardeners,
Need to brush up on a training topic? You are invited to attend any of the current Master Gardener Intern classes for Continuing Education credit. The Class schedule is attached. Please note that we are meeting at two locations, Garfield Park Conservatory and Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences.
This is the drill:
1. Sign in when you arrive. We begin at 9:00 am, sharp.
2. Take a chair on the side of the classroom; tables are filled with interns.
3. For continuity of instruction and Continuing Education credit, plan to stay for the entire session.
4. Pick up a test for the class for your own instruction. (We will even correct it for you if you like)
5. Bring you own lunch.
This is a wonderful new group of interns, and I know you will enjoy meeting them.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:15 AM | Permalink |
February 6, 2008
Smart Home Garden Volunteer Meeting
Dear Master Gardener,
Thank you for expressing your interest, to your Master Gardener Coordinator, in volunteering with this year's Smart Home: Green and Wired exhibition. We are very excited about partnering with the Museum of Science and Industry and gaining your skills and expertise in areas such as planting, garden grooming and information sharing. Smart Home is scheduled to open on May 8, 2008 and run through January of 2009.
We know that volunteering is all about finding the perfect match and the Museum staff has invited us to the institution for a meet-and-greet and preview of the Smart Home location. The first meet-and-greet is scheduled for Thursday, February 7 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and will be repeated on Saturday, February 9 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. These sessions are a great chance to ask questions, network and tour the Museum and its grounds. Extension staff will share details of the project, including the volunteer positions needed and the April-October volunteer schedule. Please bring your daily planner as we plan to ask you for the dates you will be available to volunteer. Refreshments will also be served.
We do ask that on the day of the event you arrive at 9:45 a.m. to allow time for parking, entering the building and viewing the Smart Home location; park in the Museum's east parking lot (outside of the Henry Crown Space Center), which has a turnoff on Lake Shore and Science Drive. There is no charge for parking at this lot. Please enter the building through the Henry Crown Space Center entrance and inform the security officer you are attending the Smart Home volunteer program. There is no entrance fee for Master Gardeners. I and other members of our Team will be there to greet you with the Museum Staff. If you plan on taking public transportation to the Museum, please log on to http://www.transitchicago.com/maps/tripplanner.html to plan the most efficient route.
I look forward to meeting you and sharing details of this exciting opportunity. On behalf of the other Educators involved, thank you for your interest and support.
Sincerely,
Susan M. Grupp
Extension Educator, Environmental Science
University of Illinois Extension
Countryside Extension Center
6438 Joliet Road
Countryside, IL 60525
(708) 352-0109
grupps@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:29 AM | Permalink |
February 5, 2008
Continuing Ed: Proksa Park Garden Club
The Proksa Park Garden Club will meet on Monday, February 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Proksa Park Community Room at 3001 South Wisconsin Avenue in Berwyn, Illinois.
The featured speaker will be Diana Dunlap, Horticulture Director, Brookfield Zoo
Will Rutt
Posted by Ron Wolford at 10:32 AM | Permalink |
February 4, 2008
Chicagoland Flower and Garden Show
The Chicagoland Flower & Garden Show now celebrating its 14th year-- will return in 2008 on Saturday, March 8, through Sunday, March 16, with two new features: a Home Lifestyle Expo that will run all nine show days, and an opening weekend (March 8-9) juried art show with 100-plus artists.The new Home Lifestyle Expo, included in the price of admission, will be held in an adjacent hall and feature the wares of furniture, lighting, window/door, DIY (do-it-yourself) and other home improvement vendors. With the addition of the Home Lifestyle Expo, the show will feature more than 300,000 square-feet of exhibit space.
The Chicagoland Flower & Garden Show will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill. It is sponsored by Belgard, a nationwide network of facilities that manufacture paving stones and garden wall products. Returning show highlights include:
" Theme Gardens showcasing top landscapers and designers as well as the latest in horticulture.
" Garden Marketplace where 200-plus garden-related exhibitors will display their products and services.
" Gardening Seminars where professionals will offer insights on growing techniques and landscaping options to give gardens a fresh new look.
" Garden Gourmet featuring culinary demonstrations by top Chicagoland chefs including recipes that use ingredients grown in home gardens.
" The "Teaching Garden" designed for the novice gardener. This educational area features beginner gardens and experts offering advice for budding Green Thumbs.
" Floral Tablescapes featuring innovative floral creations that entertain guests at home, parties, weddings and elsewhere.
" A popular Photography Garden, featuring flower/landscape photographs from local amateur photographers, and Hands-on Workshops including daily "Potting Parties," where show visitors can plant and take home their own foliage. There will also be new flower arranging workshops.
The Stephens Convention Center is located at 5555 North River Road in Rosemont near O'Hare Airport. The convention facility features plenty of parking as well as mass-transit and major expressway access.
Show hours are: Saturday-Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., and Thursday/Friday from 9:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Weekday admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-12 Weekend admission is $14 for adults but will remain $5 for children. Group discounts are also available. For more information, visit www.chicagoflower.com or call 773.435.1250.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:02 PM | Permalink |
February 3, 2008
Continuing Ed: Attracting Birds and Butterflies
Marian Thill, a Master Gardener with the Chicago Botanic Garden, says you don't need a lot of space to attract birds and butterflies to your garden. Her small Morton Grove backyard has documented 21 butterfly species and 75 different kinds of birds over the last 15 years. She'll be the Thursday, February 7 speaker for the Wild Flower Preservation Society in the auditorium of the Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 North Lincoln Park West at 1 p.m. The meeting is free and open to the public.
Marian is also a certified naturalist through the Morton Arboretum, she'll be joining the group for a dutch-treat lunch across the street at the Original Pancake House, 2020 North Lincoln Park West at 11:30 a.m. The Wild Flower Preservation Society is 95 years old this year. Annual dues are $10 to cover the cost of meetings and life membership is $50. Meetings are spring and fall with an occasional field trip. More information from Jeanne Zasadil at jeannezasadil@hotmail.com.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:33 PM | Permalink |
February 2, 2008
Help Needed at Garfield Plant Clinic
Jackie Paine needs Master Gardeners to staff the Plant Clinic at Garfield Park Conservatory. Please sign up now.
We are working on ways to make this a more enjoyable experience for you. Give us your ideas. Why not ask you best Master Gardener friend to join you? You will be providing a service and have a chance to get "caught up" at the same time.
It is our tradition that Active Master Gardeners are required to staff one session at the Plant Clinic every year. Interns must do two. (2007 Interns, you have until April 1, 2008 to complete your 60 hours) Have you done your Plant Clinic requirement?
Please contact Jackie at msjlpaine@aol.com if you can work on any of the dates below. When you respond, please give Jackie your name and phonenumber and let her know if you are an MG or Intern.
Name:
Telephone #:
MG or Intern:
Date:
Available dates are:
February: 9, 20, 16, 17, 23, 24
March: 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29
April: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
Thanks for volunteering!
Jackie Paine
msjlpaine@aol.com
Posted by Ron Wolford at 12:22 PM | Permalink |
February 2, 2008
Urgent! Master Gardeners Needed for Chocolate Festival
Jackie Paine needs Master Gardeners for the Garfield Park Plant Clinic for Saturday, February 9 for the Chocolate Fest. Please contact Jackie at msjlpaine@aol.com if you can work on February 9. When you respond, please give Jackie your name and phone number and let her know if you are a Master Gardener or an Intern.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:52 AM | Permalink |
February 2, 2008
2007 Master Gardener Graduation
Your graduation is set for May 27, 2008. You have until April 1 to get your volunteer hours entered into the NE Region database. Let me know if you need assistance.
We will no longer accept any more Continuing Education Hours for 2007. That deadline has passed. I removed all of the 2007 Continuing Education items from the database this morning.
Let me know how I can help you.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:28 AM | Permalink |
January 30, 2008
Volunteer Opportunity: Smart Home: Green and Wired
Master Gardeners,
In spite of the wind chill factor today, Spring is coming, and you are invited to participate in one of the most exciting joint projects ever: The Smart Home: Green and Wired Exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. It will open on May 8, but we need to begin preparations now.
This project will require participation from all of us, so choose an orientation date and sign up now.
Master Gardeners at the MSI Smart Home: Green and Wired Exhibit
Donate Your Time and Talents to this joint project of University of Illinois Extension and Museum of Science and Industry, a World Famous Institution
What?
Plant and maintain the sustainable vegetable garden and share your garden knowledge at the Smart Home: Green and Wired exhibit that opens on May 8, 2008 at the Museum of Science and Industry & runs through January 4, 2009.
Volunteer opportunities include: Planting Team, Garden Groomers, Garden Docents, Garden Photographers, Garden Historians and Ask the Experts.
Who?
Master Gardeners who are friendly, approachable and possess a professional attitude and appearance.
How?
Contact your local MG Coordinator. Both Elizabeth Bruhns, ebruhns@uiuc.edu and Nancy Kreith, nkreith@gmail.com will take your reservation for the Kick-off dates.
Attend one Kick-off training session with University of Illinois Extension staff on either February 7th or 9th, 10 a.m. – Noon to be held at the Museum of Science and Industry.
Complete a MSI volunteer application.
Attend one MSI Volunteer Orientation in either March or April.
Volunteers will be scheduled on Tuesday's, Thursday's and Saturday's.
Volunteers will be required to complete both Extension and MSI background checks.
Why?
Hone your sustainable vegetable gardening skills.
Gain knowledge of the Museum, its history and numerous exhibits.
Be involved with this exciting new exhibit and learn about all the green features of the Smart Home: Green and Wired.
Volunteers receive many perks, including: MSI food and shopping discounts, free entry to the Museum, family vouchers and FREE parking.
Meet new people and have a great time.
Elizabeth Bruhns
Master Gardener Program Organizer
Cook County/Chicago
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
cell # 773-469-8037
3807 West 111th Street
Chicago, IL 60655
773-233-0476 -Fax 773-233-0910
url http://cook.extension.uiuc.edu
MASTER GARDENER BLOG-
http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/blogs/eb6/index.html
Posted by Ron Wolford at 4:32 AM | Permalink |
January 23, 2008
Volunteer at Macy's 2008 Flower Show
We are looking for experienced Master Gardeners to take on a high-profile volunteer opportunity. We have been invited to be ambassadors for Macy's Flower Show from March 13-March 30 at their Loop location.
This is a great opportunity to provide information to the public, and raise the profile of the Cook County/Chicago Master Gardener Program.
The Flower Show display will be open to the public March 13-March 30. We will have ambassadors there on 12 of those days. Volunteer hours will be from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. with lunch break included.
Our Volunteer days are:
Thursday, March 13
Friday, March 14
Saturday, March 15
Sunday, March 16
Thursday, March 20
Friday, March 21
Saturday, March 22
Sunday, March 23
Thursday, March 27
Friday, March 28
Saturday, March 29
Sunday, March 30
We will work in teams of five or six Master Gardeners to provide tours of the show and to host a Plant Information Booth.
Master Gardeners will lead three guided tours on each day, Thursday through Sunday. Each tour will last approximately 30 minutes, with tours starting at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Master Gardeners will host the information booth from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday, on the main floor with flower show and appropriate Extension horticulture brochures. Master Gardeners will be ready to answer gardening questions and provide general information. The booth will remain set up display for the entire length of the flower show, but will only be staffed for12 of the days (see dates above) the show is open to the public.
Here are the perks that Macy's will provide for each MG Volunteer:
Lunch in the Walnut room
Free parking
Thank you reception
Pre-night tour
Orientation session
They will also provide:
1. Plant list, one month ahead of time. (We will set up study session on the Plant List. You will receive Continuing Education credit for that session.
We will also award double credit hours for Volunteering on the Easter holiday.)
2. Map of flower displays
3. Map of 1st floor
You will have an opportunity to meet with the Show's designer at the pre-night tour.
Is this the volunteer opportunity for you? Do you have any tour guide experience? Are you comfortable answering gardening questions and interacting with the public? Would you like to know a high profile flower show from the inside-out, and share that knowledge with the public?
To volunteer, contact me with your choice of dates. You may volunteer for more than one date.
Macy's is making a generous donation to University of Illinois Extension to support the Chicago Master Gardener program
University of Illinois Extension will be listed as a partner on flower show brochures, press releases and Macy's Flower Show web site.
What a great way to start the season!
Elizabeth
ebruhns@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 5:52 PM | Permalink |
January 23, 2008
Help with Insect Petting Zoo
Hello Master Gardeners,
Please consider volunteering for the following activity:
What: Insect Petting Zoo - Showing off millipedes, Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches and a tarantula.
When: Thursday, February 21, 2008
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: North Kenwood Oakland Elementary Charter School (NKO) - 1119 E. 46th St.
This is a wonderful school that we have been working with on a regular basis. Please join us in teaching four classrooms the wonderful world of insects. Grade levels: K-1st. If interested please contact Nancy Kreith: nkreith@gmail.com
Thank you for your consideration.
Nancy Kreith
Extension Program Coordinator
University of Illinois Extension
3807 W. 111th Street
Chicago, IL. 60655
office: 773.233.0476
fax: 773.233.0910
cell: 708.567.6101
url: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/
Posted by Ron Wolford at 5:15 PM | Permalink |
January 19, 2008
Cook County Extension Science Volunteer
Cook County Master Gardeners:
Would you like to branch out into another area of science?
The Cook County Extension science team is recruiting volunteers, and Dr. Oliver, our NE Region Director, and Dean of Urban Affairs suggested they look among the talented Master Gardeners for additional help. I know that will be of interest to a few special people. It is a great team of Educators, and I think you would enjoy the program.The application is on the Cook County Science and Tech team website at http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/cook/scitech1793.html. If you have questions, give me a call or one of the Educators listed on the website.
Extension Science Volunteers
COOK COUNTY SCIENCE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Studies have shown that U.S. students are falling behind the rest of the world in science and math. One of the most significant reasons for this declining performance is that students lack exposure to scientific fields. The most affected individuals are from underserved communities who are typically not encouraged to explore the sciences and as a result are not prepared to pursue scientific careers.
To bridge this gap the University of Illinois Extension has developed a Science Vo