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Learn New Skills At The National Tropical Botanical Garden


*Garden Connections Classes Begin July 13*

Kalāheo, Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i (June 15, 2007) – Summer at the National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) means a continuing education opportunity for members to attend special Garden Connections classes. The new classes are designed to increase knowledge of the gardens, the environment and the community.

Making this program even more unique and distinctive amongst botanical gardens is that the “fee” for attendance “costs” members a few hours of volunteer work at the gardens. The volunteer portion provides members an opportunity to make an even greater difference, while meeting new friends and sharing skills.

“We really focused on making this program a unique garden experience that you won’t find anywhere else but Kaua‘i,” said NTBG education staff member Brianna Wilkerson. “The classes, which fall under the four themes of horticulture, art, health and culture, are designed for those people who would like to enhance their lifestyles or skill sets.”

The Garden Connections series will launch on July 13 at the NTBG Visitors Center, with “Herbology 101.” Based on the popular Harry Potter series, this class will be especially appealing to children and their families. The class starts the same day as the new film opens and participating children are invited to dress as their favorite Harry Potter characters (wands are optional).

“In the Harry Potter books, young wizards learn how plants are magic,” said class coordinator Stefani Gee (playing the role of Professor Sprout). “There may not be Devil’s Snare, Mandrakes or Bubotubers in the garden, but we’ll share how Hawaii‘s native plants are fun and fascinating to study.”

Classes currently scheduled are:

  • Herbology 101 July 13 10 a.m. – 2 p.,m. McBryde Garden (register by 7/1)
  • The Craft of Hawaiian Lau Hala Weaving July 19 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Limahuli Garden (register by 7/6)
  • Fitness Walk in the Garden (register by 7/1) July 21 8:15 -10:30 a.m. McBryde Garden
  • Garden Landscapes Through a Photographer’s Eye (register by 7/1) July 25 2 – 6 p.m. McBryde Garden
  • Landscaping with Native Plants (register by 8/1) Aug. 3 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. McBryde Garden
  • Cacao to Chocolate: A Workshop in Chocolate Making (register by 8/1) Aug. 17 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. McBryde Garden
  • Budding Writers Aug. 29 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. McBryde Garden (register by 8/1)
  • Grafting Sept. 11 4 – 8 p.m. McBryde Garden (register by 9/1)

To participate in the Garden Connections classes, individuals must be NTBG members and complete a volunteer project that same day. NTBG is now offering membership rates for as little as $20, which can be purchased in person at garden locations or online at www.OurGardenOurWorld.com. Advance registration is needed and course registration forms can be downloaded from the NTBG website at news.ntbg.org (select Garden Connections announcement).

A non-profit organization, NTBG is dedicated to saving tropical plants through conservation, scientific research, and education. Its network of gardens and preserves include McBryde Garden, Allerton Garden, and Limahuli Garden and Preserve on the island of Kaua‘i; Kahanu Garden on Maui; The Kampong in Florida; and two preserves on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. With nearly 1,800 acres encompassing various tropical ecosystems, extensive living collections of endangered or at-risk species, and precious cultural and historical features, NTBG plays an important role in the complex web of life. For membership or more information, call (808) 332-7324 x246 or visit www.ntbg.org.

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