When I started almost 35 years with the University of Illinois Extension there were no computers, no fax machines, no copiers, no cellphones and no internet. This has given me a perspective concerning technology that some of my younger colleagues may not have.

I have always been intrigued by technology. When I was 10 years old I used to listen to flagship radio stations on my tiny transistor radio under my pillow. Amazed that I could connect with distant voices on stations like WBZ in Boston, KMOX in St. Louis, WCCO in Minneapolis and KDKA in Pittsburgh.

As the internet gained more public use, I realized that it would be a great way to provide our research-based information to the public and to tell our story. That is why I jumped at the chance years ago to be a part of the U of I Extension NE Region Web Development team along with Jane Scherer, Greg Stack and Molly Hofer. So I think I have some idea of what makes a website relevant.

Three to four days a week I will post a website on this blog. I will focus on horticulture, but will also post on other educational topics.

Today's Website of the Day is The Great Plant Escape. This was the first website we developed as a web team and is still today our most popular website. Join Detective LePlant and his partners Bud and Sprout as they uncover the mysteries of plant life in this interactive website that focuses on 4th and 5th graders. Each of the lessons in this program is interdisciplinary, designed to introduce students to plant science and increase their understanding of how foods grow. Activities enhance student's math, science, language arts, social studies, music and art.