Meet Tony Bender

Tony was born and raised in Huntington, Long Island. He went to school at Huntington High School and then the University of Buffalo where he graduated with a degree in Geology.

Tony moved to Norfolk for his work. Although Tony is not working at the moment, he is waiting for the right opportunity. He has been working in Direct Marketing such as supporting infomercials and the related distribution of products in retail channels.

Tony’s sister is a Master Gardener in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. His father was a Master Gardener and Curator of the New Hanover County, Virginia Arboretum.  Since they seemed to enjoy their experiences, he applied and was accepted into the Class of 2024. Tony enjoyed the classes, especially the way the presentations and the related field trips were organized.

In order to attain his required fifty hours, Tony volunteered at the Weyanoke Bird and Wildflower Sanctuary, with the Significant Tree program, at the Butterfly House at Norfolk Botanical Garden, and for the plant sale. He is training in the Norfolk Botanical Garden greenhouse, and is hoping to get involved with the Norfolk Master Gardener greenhouse. He is also interested and hopes to volunteer in the resilience programs.

When he is not participating in NMG activities, Tony likes to work in his yard and to walk the dog. He also enjoys maintaining his North American Native Pitcher Plant (and other carnivorous plants) collection.

Tony shares his home with his Olde English Bulldogge named Kranepool!



When you see Tony, be sure to introduce yourself and welcome him to the Norfolk Extension Master Gardeners.