“Garden Inspired Writing” at Botanical Center May 1

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
County Program Director - Greene County
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Experience nature and be inspired by the beauty of the gardens at Na-thanael Greene and Close Memorial Parks in Springfield as part of the Greene County Exten-sion’s “Garden Inspired Writing” program.

“Garden Inspired Writing,” will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon on May 1. The cost per person, per session, is $10. Members of the Springfield Writer’s Guild can attend the retreat for only $5 which covers the cost of a work book.

Advance registration for the program is required and can be done in person or by mail with a check to the Greene County Extension Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807.

The retreat will be led by University of Missouri Extension specialist David Burton, who is a journalist and published creative writer. Burton will guide participants on a journey into the natural world with creative writing exercises in the gardens.

“This retreat is for anyone who wants to be more creative whether you like journal writing, poetry, fiction, non-fiction or news writing,” said Burton.

Burton adds that no prior writing experience is needed. However, attendees are advised to bring a lawn chair and their own writing tools. Participants will visit at least three different areas of the park and be given writing prompts that will encourage creativity and sharing.

"Regular writing retreats help you stay motivated, inspired and productive. Our brains and bodies need regular rest breaks. Writing retreats like this one to the garden, are to creativity what a good night’s sleep is to physical well-being. You and your writing both will benefit," said Burton.

The program was previously offered during the fall of 2013. This Greene County Extension program is being conducted in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.
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