Biography

Ed “Eddie” Kugler

A trailblazer in the organic movement

Ed, known to his friends as Eddie, is a passionate organic grower, market manager, and entrepreneur dedicated to promoting sustainable lifestyles and supporting local communities through his work at the Ravinia Farmers Market and Organic Teaching Garden in Highland Park, IL. He has devoted his life to spreading the message about the benefits of organic farming and is a long-time advocate for its widespread adoption.

A beloved resident of Highland Park, Ed has made a significant impact and played a vital role in his community for multiple generations. His family moved to Highland Park in 1959, where he lived a very conventional life with a standard diet. Growing up in Highland Park, he cherished the close-knit community and found joy in the everyday experiences the town offered. However, it was during his college years in the early 1970s that Ed's path took a transformative turn, leading him to a lifelong commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices.

Ed's journey from his conventional upbringing to his pursuit of sustainable agriculture began at Michigan State University, where he wholeheartedly embraced the study of Hotel/Restaurant Management, Food Preparation, and Bartending. While his on-campus classes emphasized the importance of taste and appearance in food preparation, it was his off-campus experiences that shaped his career trajectory. Exploring the world of organic and natural foods, shopping at food co-ops, and embracing vegetarian cuisine for the first time sparked his passion for a healthier lifestyle.

In the years that followed, Ed embarked on a diverse path, guided by his father's wisdom that "you learn through osmosis." He joined his family's window cleaning business, City Cleaning Company, established in 1914, which later evolved into the Chicago Window Cleaning Company and Millard Maintenance Service & Millard Group. While periodically working with the company, Ed found himself yearning for a deeper connection with his newfound passion.

In 1975, Ed took a sabbatical from the family business and ventured into the world of organic pastry baking at King Richard's Faire in Bristol, WI. It was during this time that he also honed his skills in growing sprouts, wheatgrass, buckwheat, and sunflower greens, learning from a fellow vendor. Inspired by his experiences and armed with knowledge, Ed fully immersed himself in the organic and natural food movement.

The pivotal year of 1976 marked a turning point for Ed as he embarked on a transformative journey across the country. From coast to coast, he visited organic farms, natural food stores, vegetarian restaurants, distributors, and co-ops, fueled by his boundless passion for healthy foods. Attending the National Nutritional Food Association's trade show in Las Vegas further fueled his commitment to promoting sustainable and wholesome living. Today, Ed is renowned as the king of samples, skillfully gathering and sharing these promotional delights at trade shows, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter him.

Building upon his newfound expertise, Ed established the Sprouting Bin in a century-old house in Highwood, IL, in 1977. With a focus on cultivating various sprout varieties, he quickly became a prominent sprout farmer in the area. His sprouts, along with pre-made salads and baked goods, made their mark in the South Water Street Produce District and were featured in his booths at the inaugural Daley Center Market, as well as the renowned Ravinia and Evanston farmers markets.

In 1978, propelled by his firm commitment to organic and natural foods, Ed took a significant leap in his entrepreneurial journey. Renting a storefront in Highwood, he brought his vision to life by opening The Sprout Shop Buying Club. This innovative establishment offered both club and retail pricing, providing access to a wide range of organic and natural food products, fresh produce, sprouts, as well as enticing onsite-made prepared meals, sandwiches, and baked goods. Ed's goal was to make healthy, sustainable options more accessible to the community while fostering a sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.

By 1981, Ed faced a pivotal moment when his father's health took a turn for the worse. Understanding the importance of family and responsibility, he made the difficult decision to close The Sprout Shop Buying Club and return to the family business. Despite this shift, Ed's passion for organic farming and his commitment to promoting sustainable living remained constant.

Undeterred by the challenges, Ed's creative spirit found new avenues to advocate for natural and organic foods. In 1987, he embarked on an ambitious endeavor, creating the first-ever Natural Food Dance Fest series in Evanston, IL. This groundbreaking event brought together a community of food enthusiasts, dancers, and wellness enthusiasts, celebrating the harmonious connection between healthy eating and joyful movement. Notably, it introduced a revolutionary concept by establishing the first smoke-free atmosphere, setting a new standard for future gatherings.

Ed's ability to merge his passion for healthy foods with community events did not stop there. In 1988, he added a remarkable twist to Chicago's renowned Halsted Street Market Days, the city's largest block party. Introducing the Taste of Health section, Ed curated ten booths dedicated to showcasing natural and organic food options. This initiative provided festival- goers with a delightful culinary experience, exposing them to the delicious possibilities of nutritious, conscious eating.

The year 1988 also saw Ed embark on an exciting international adventure. He joined Brother Ron Pickarski's Natural Food Culinary Team and traveled to Germany to participate in the prestigious Culinary Olympics. Armed with his camera, Ed documented the team's journey, capturing the essence of their culinary artistry and commitment to healthy, plant-based cuisine. His involvement in this esteemed competition further cemented his position as a leading advocate for vegetarian and vegan culinary excellence.

In the early 1990s, Ed's commitment to promoting organic and sustainable living led him to open a groundbreaking establishment in Highland Park, IL. In 1990, he launched The Sprout Shop Food Market, which quickly gained recognition as the first all-organic food and deli in the state. With its wide selection of organic products and delectable deli offerings, the market became a haven for health-conscious individuals seeking nourishing, sustainable options. Ed's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to organic living shone through as he cultivated a space that not only provided nourishment but also fostered a sense of community.

Simultaneously, Ed's passion for raising awareness about organic farming and sustainable practices extended beyond the walls of his market. From 1990 to 2004, through his company Natural Needs, Ed orchestrated the Earth Day Taste-A-Thon in Chicago, a remarkable event that celebrated both the environment and the pleasures of vegetarian cuisine. Collaborating with food booth vendors, he ensured that the city's annual Earth Day celebration offered a diverse array of all-vegetarian fare. This culinary initiative showcased the delicious possibilities of plant-based eating and sparked conversations about the positive impact of food choices on our planet. Significantly, Ed organized the 20th and 25th anniversary gala dinners, featuring guest speakers Dennis Hayes and Senator Gaylord Nelson, the founders of Earth Day, along with renowned chef Ron Pickarski leading the culinary team.

In 1990, Ed embarked on another noteworthy endeavor that would leave a lasting imprint on the organic food landscape. He pioneered the "Organic Farmers Market & Food Pavilion" at the James Thompson Center, the esteemed governor's building in downtown Chicago, Illinois. For 14 consecutive years, this vibrant market provided a platform for promoting organic products, informing the public, and offering sampling and purchasing opportunities to over 100,000 visitors. Ed's dedication to connecting consumers with organic producers and fostering education around sustainable choices was truly unparalleled.

Ed's passion and expertise were sought after even on a grander scale. In 1997, when the Farm Aid concert made a last-minute move to Chicago, Ed was approached by Paul Sturgis of Goodness Greenness to help procure donated ingredients for the event's caterer. Ed promptly enlisted the support of Reed and Prem Glidden, respected brokers and owners of Choice Marketing, as well as his trusted comrades at Presence Marketing, to join him on-site and orchestrate this remarkable feat. Through an extraordinary display of collaborative community efforts, Ed, his partners, and their dedicated team successfully secured an astounding contribution of over $10,000 worth of organic food products.

Building upon this momentum, Ed went on to create a backstage Organic Food Pavilion. Together with his friends and former partner Sonya Dagavitz, they played an instrumental role in fulfilling ingredient needs for the caterer, as well as in preparing and serving meals, providing nourishment to over 1,000 musicians, VIPs, staff, and guests throughout the duration of the four-day event. Ed's outstanding efforts did not go unnoticed, as his contributions were acknowledged by none other than Neil Young himself. In a memorable moment, Neil Young took to the stage and recognized the Organic Food Pavilion available backstage, highlighting the dedication to organic cuisine in front of an appreciative audience.

In the late 1990s, Ed helped revive the Chicago Vegetarian Society and took on the organization of its annual Thanksgiving gala, once again led by the renowned Ron Pickarski. This endeavor gave rise to a cherished tradition that united individuals in commemorating the wonders of plant-based cuisine. Concurrently, Ed made a significant mark at the Chicago Blues Festival in 1999 by launching the first organic food booth. This pioneering initiative offered hundreds of thousands of festival-goers a delectable array of organic culinary delights to try.

From 2001 to 2011, Ed harnessed his passion for educating the younger generation about healthy food choices by introducing the school Taste-A-Thon and the "Try Before You Buy" concept. This innovative program brought organic and natural food samples to nine schools in Highland Park, empowering an entire generation of students with the knowledge and firsthand experience of making informed decisions about their dietary preferences and purchases. By immersing themselves in the flavors and benefits of nourishing foods, these students gained a profound understanding of the transformative power of wholesome nutrition.

Ed's creative spirit and commitment to community engagement extended beyond the school environment. In 2002, he launched the Halloween Trick or Treat Taste-A-Thons in various locations across Highland Park, captivating children and adults alike with an interactive tasting experience that combined fun and healthy treats. Remarkably, this beloved tradition continues to thrive to this day.

In 2005, Ed took his consumer direct marketing booth experience to new heights by hosting the first Organic & Natural Food Taste-A-Thon at the Harmony Festival in Santa Rosa, CA. This expansion allowed him to share his passion for organic food and sustainable living with a broader audience, making a lasting impression on festival attendees.

Ed's dedication to promoting organic and natural products continued to take him across the country. From 2006 to 2014, he attended Green Festivals in multiple cities, serving as a proud ambassador for organic and natural food manufacturers. Through these appearances, Ed passionately championed the advantages of sustainable living, leaving a lasting impact on the countless individuals he inspired to make conscious choices about the products they consume. Additionally, he wholeheartedly supported and represented Farm Aid and the Organic Farming Research Foundation, diligently collecting donations through the distribution of collection cans. Over the course of those years, his tremendous efforts resulted in the collection of thousands of dollars, which he selflessly donated to these invaluable organizations.

In 2009, deeply inspired by Farm Aid's powerful message, Ed embarked on a profound and transformative journey, setting out to create his own edible garden right in his backyard. The result was the Organic Teaching Garden, a remarkable expression of his unyielding dedication to promoting organic and natural products. Collaborating with friends Jim Mauck, Suzi (Abrudeanu) Rainbolt, Oriana Kruszewski, and Ed’s gardening partner, landscape architect Robert Boyce, Ed and his team meticulously transformed his Highland Park property into a vibrant oasis. The garden boasted an impressive array of 57 raised beds, complemented by fruit trees, berry bushes, and an array of other organic elements. This personal endeavor not only provided Ed with a source of fresh, organic produce but also served as a testament to his resolute commitment to sustainable practices. Ed's intention was to set an inspiring example, showcasing an edible garden that prioritized functionality over mere aesthetics in his landscape design.

Currently, the Organic Teaching Garden is accessible to the public through the Organic Food Club, a membership-based program that offers seasonal access and daily shopping at two locations. The first location is in Highland Park, where you can explore the generous offerings and reserve your preferred shopping times. The second location, spanning 2 acres and featuring three greenhouses, is situated in Lake Zurich under the management of Robert Boyce's company, Natural Environments. The Organic Food Club operates as a private club, allowing individuals to join as members and enjoy the convenience of daily shopping. This unique model surpasses the traditional CSA box by providing availability throughout the week, with produce freshly cut to order. You have the freedom to purchase only what you need, and as a concierge member, you even have the opportunity to influence the selection of crops we grow.

Ed's involvement in local farmers markets further solidified his role as a respected figure in the organic food community. He played an instrumental role in the establishment of the Port Clinton Farmers Market in 2009, which later evolved into the Highland Park Farmers Market. In 2012, Ed became a produce vendor at the Ravinia Farmers Market, where he introduced the Halloween Trick or Treat Taste-A-Thon booth, delighting market-goers with a unique and interactive tasting experience.

As his reputation grew, Ed took on the role of Branding Ambassador, representing various manufacturers' products at Women's Expos, Vegetarian and Vegan events, and other local gatherings from 2010 to 2017. His direct marketing Taste-A-Thon presentations became a powerful tool for spreading awareness and fostering appreciation for organic and natural products.

In 2017, Ed's remarkable journey led him to assume the position of Market Manager for the Ravinia Farmers Market. Guided by his visionary leadership, he introduced captivating enhancements that continue to garner anticipation from attendees. These include the Taste-A-Thons held at the information tent, where giveaway free samples delight visitors. Additionally, the exciting Spin-to-Win Taste-A-Thon and the Ravinia Festival Free Drawing Experience have become highlights of the market. To further enhance the experience, Ed also facilitates the distribution of natural/organic food goody bags sponsored by Presence Marketing. These additions have elevated the market's appeal and solidified its reputation as a hub for organic and sustainable living.

Ever the innovator, Ed embarked on a new challenge in 2021 by spearheading the reboot of the Glencoe Farmers Market as Market Manager. Although the venture lasted for two seasons, Ed's steadfast dedication to promoting local agriculture and organic produce shone through in every aspect of his work.

In the same year, Ed began fundraising campaigns for the Ravinia Farmers Market, leveraging sponsorships, Friends of the Market, and the Spin-to-Win Taste-A-Thon initiative. These initiatives allowed him to secure support from the community and ensure the market's continued success.

Now in its 45th anniversary year, the Ravinia Farmers Market continues to thrive as a vibrant gathering place for the Highland Park community. This beloved market proudly showcases locally grown and sourced produce, embodying a commitment to quality, sustainability, and earth-friendly practices. Visitors are treated to an array of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, artisanal goods, and delectable treats.

Since 1977, Ed has been actively promoting and prioritizing organic practices, ensuring that it remains the central component of everything he sells or offers as a complimentary sample. His firm belief is that organic equals clean air, water, and soil, and he has made it his mission to advocate for this cause.

In addition to his organic farming endeavors, Ed established Taste Marketing, Inc., a consumer direct marketing service committed to serving as another ambassador for organic and natural food products. Through this company, he provides free samples, further spreading awareness and appreciation for these wholesome products.

With over 50 years of personal experience, Ed imparts words of wisdom: "You are what you eat." He encourages everyone to consider how their choices can contribute to keeping our air, water, and soil chemically free. The way we spend our money directly impacts the preservation of our planet. Each day, our actions matter, and Ed's unwavering commitment to this cause has been steadfast since 1972.

For Ed, organic farming is not just a practice; it's a cause to believe in. As Neil Young passionately proclaimed at Farm Aid '97, Ed finds inspiration in these words, further solidifying his dedication to the organic movement.

Ed's deep care for the planet Earth extends to every aspect of his life. He recognizes the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment, driving him to continually seek ways to promote sustainability and advocate for a healthier planet.

Ed often likes to say, as he reflects upon these years, "Contemplating the significance of our dietary choices and their impact on the planet, as well as conscientiously investing in sustainable practices, are crucial considerations. I sincerely aspire to see the cultivation of food and the embrace of organic principles integrated into the educational curriculum of future generations.”