Thursday, June 29, 2017

Summer Update: Projects and Events

We've been watching things bloom this summer -- and not just in our backyards!

DGOG took a field trip to The Plant Chicago, a former meatpacking plant that is now an eco-friendly business demonstration project. We learned that The Plant will soon be using an anaerobic digester to break down all types of waste and convert it to energy. The Plant houses a bakery, a brewery, a coffee roaster, and a hydroponic demonstration area, as well as a Farmer's Market.



Hannah's Garden at Puffer School is thriving. It's hard to imagine that Girl Scout Troop 51266 just installed the raised beds last month. A fence, a shed, and an irrigation system using two rain barrels is also in place.


Join us for a members only garden walk at the home of Pat McGrath, 6000 Chase Avenue, from 5-7 PM on Wednesday, August 9.

Watch for information about our Harvest Festival at our September meeting.

Monday, June 12, 2017

Brunch at Ball Gardens Returns Saturday, July 15


Once again, the DuPage Friends of Extension have the honor of extending you an invitation to our annual summer fundraiser – Brunch at Ball Gardens.  Join us on Saturday, July 15, 2017 for an afternoon of delicious food, good people, and an enjoyable time.  

Relax in the beautiful gardens of Ball Horticulture at 622 Town Rd., West Chicago, IL.  Master Gardeners from the Extension are available to guide you through the gardens.  Or, if you prefer a self-guided tour, please feel free to roam.  Meet new friends and share with existing ones. Just a wonderful way to enjoy and relax with Mother Nature and a wonderful way to support your community educational programs provided by the University of Illinois Extension.

The Extension needs your help to continue its successful outreach to the community, including the 4-H Youth Development Program and the Master Gardeners work with the DuPage Convalescent Home, young adults with disabilities at We Grow Dreams, Veterans at Cantigny, and patients and families at Ronald McDonald House, along with schools and groups like DGOG. 

Our communities in and around DuPage County need these programs.  They are critical to positive thinking and positive living.  With no State funding, and reduction in funding from other agencies, lay-offs and program reduction stands by the Extension door.  You can make a difference!

(Thanks to our friend Marilyn Joyner for this invitation!)