Chicago : High Five: Vincent Iturralde
High Five: Vincent Iturralde

My Cousin Vinny

05.15.2009

Submitted by dsimmons on Thu, 05/14/2009 - 11:00pm.
The Bite:
If you see science-teacher-turned-principal Vincent Iturralde teaching recycling to a coupla youths, give him a high five. As founder of the Tarkington school, Vince helped make the K-8 digs Chicago's first LEED-certified public school - with a green roof, recycled building materials, and no nose-pinching (aka low-VOC) paints or carpeting. Tomorrow, the USGBC will honor Vince for his eco efforts at the Emerald Gala. Here, he presents his case.
Can you tell us about the school's new garden?
VI: Recently we worked with Greencorps to set up three herb and vegetable gardens, as well as some composting bins. Student volunteers are joining in to help plant and cultivate, and they'll be able to chart progress and sample what they've grown in the classroom.

What do you tell students who want to get involved?
VI: The first thing is to join our Green Club, a student group that polices recycling efforts and conducts energy audits every few months. But overall, I encourage them to open their eyes and be a voice for our world and our Earth.

What's the one eco thing you can't live without?
VI: My reusable water bottle. I recently gave a stainless steel bottle to each of the faculty for Teacher Appreciation Day.
Wanna Try: 
When Vincent's not serving on the board for the Healthy Schools Campaign, you can find him at Whole Foods, 1101 S. Canal St., #107 (312-435-4600).

Map It

Cocktail Fact

After Marisa Tomei won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for My Cousin Vinny, rumors flew that she won by mistake because Jack Palance read the wrong name; but since two officials standby offstage in case presenters call out the wrong winner, it's unlikely.

Small Changes Add Up

If 10,000 Chicago Biters drink water from a reusable bottle instead of a disposable plastic one, in a year we'll save enough oil to fill 79 kitchen sinks.

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