This could be the start of something good...

Hello Everyone!
     My name is Michael (though once people get to know me, I'm a Mikey) ;-)  and I am your new Environmental Educator!  I just started a few weeks ago with the Parks & Rec department of Greensboro, and am loving it so far!  I will be doing all kinds of educational programs for schools, groups, functions, events, gatherings, organizations, associations...(you get the idea). I'm also available for festivals and weddings (as long as there is cake involved). :)
     What you are reading now is the blog for the ECO Bus, a great new tool we're going to use to bring educational programs to everyone we can.  The Greensboro Parks & Rec department has been lucky enough to acquire a large bus (former BookMobile, actually) that we are currently working on modifying and outfitting into some of the best, most impressive, most informative and most fun ways to bring some great environmental information to some even greater people.  That's you guys!

Between working on the bus and getting it chock full of educational exhibits and learning opportunities I'm also writing a boatload of different programs that I hope will keep everyone having a lot of fun, while learning a ton at the same time.  The goal you ask? To present environmental education in a manner that everyone really enjoys learning and will go on to spread that knowledge to others. 
     And just because we're meeting for the first time... here's a a little about me.  I grew up in NY City, and came to NC to get my undergrad degree in Biology/Pre-Vet.  Loved the state and the people so much I decided to stay for a while.  I got a job running a Nature Center out of a wonderful camp that to this day is still my "home".  For about 4 years I was able to do environmental education with lots and lots of kids and it was great.  After that I decided to try my hand in zoo work and moved to Florida where I became a zookeeper/trainer.  It was mainly a crocodile park and yes, I was a crocodilian trainer (they're much smarter than most people think!).

 I loved my animals and training, but really enjoyed my days when I could do the educational programming.  So much so that I eventually left the zoo and worked with the Fl. Sheriff's Association for At-Risk Youth.  Once again, I got to run the Environmental Education area of a camp (had two Nature buildings, some land and oh- also got to be in charge of the horse barn and riding lessons too!).  Lots of fun, but missed NC so after a bit I moved back.  I was lucky enough to work in the Kure Beach Aquarium for a few years in the Education and Husbandry departments before moving to Durham with the Museum of Life and Science (once again I was a keeper and trainer- this time for Bears).   

 Love my bears!  But I decided to pursue a graduate degree, started up with UNCG, moved back to Greensboro and just now have gotten a job with Parks & Rec - one big circle over a decade or so!  The main thing is, I'm home and can once again pursue my quest of bringing the best Environmental Education to anyone and everyone who wants to learn!  :)
   So, not to make this too long, but this blog is going to be regularly updated with news and events all about the ECO Bus and the environmental education program.  Definitely keep checking back for all kinds of fun info, and if you want to get in touch with me, or ask about a program booking or anything like that, just click on the link and you can email me- and I'll get back up with you as soon as I can!  You can also leave a comment on the blog as well.  Thanks very much and really looking forward to everything!  :)