In this month’s President’s Circle e-newsletter, Garden President and CEO Sophia Siskel reflects on this time in our history and how the Garden offers a sense of peace during difficult times. Its beauty, commitment to science and education, and remarkable people, she says, “truly provide hope for the future.” Read on as Sophia describes new developments at the Garden for 2009 — including a story about how one member is giving his wife a remarkable 80th birthday present: a makeover of a 14-acre section of Mary Mix McDonald Woods, where his wife has enjoyed watching migrating birds for more than 50 years. Sophia also introduces world-renowned mycologist (fungi expert) Greg Mueller, the Garden’s new vice president of science and academic programs.

Please click here to read Sophia's letter in full.

President's Circle Hard-Hat Tour of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center with Dr. Greg Mueller

On Thursday, January 22, President's Circle members were able to meet Dr. Greg Mueller, the Garden’s new vice president of science and academic programs, and tour the new Rice Science Center, opening in September. This was an exclusive opportunity to tour the new facility, where the Garden will conduct its critical plant conservation research. Guests were among the first to view the building still under construction, interact with the Garden's scientists, and learn more about the important research being accomplished at the Garden.

To view pictures from the tour, please click here. For additional information on the Rice Science Center or to view the virtual tour, click here. The response was so overwhelmingly positive that Dr. Mueller has agreed to conduct future hard-hat tours.

If you were unable to attend but would like to sign up for a future tour, please fill out the RSVP form or contact Paula Clair at
(847) 835-8308.

Antiques & Garden Fair Postponed

The Garden has postponed the 2009 Antiques & Garden Fair and Preview, originally scheduled for April 16 through 19, with the hope of bringing it back in 2010.

For more details click here.