Legendary newsman and former AT&T advertising icon Bill Kurtis has signed on as spokesman for Chicago Gateway Green, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to greening and beautifying the city by planting trees and gardens along its expressways, gateways and neighborhoods. The organization marks its 25th anniversary in 2011 and is working towards a goal of planting 15,000 trees throughout Chicago by 2015.

In addition to ensuring the legacy of trees and gardens throughout Chicago by participating in various fundraising initiatives and special events, Kurtis will support tree plantings with volunteers and key partners ranging from United Airlines to the Chicago Blackhawks. "We are thrilled to welcome Bill on board," said Gerald Roper, chairman of Chicago Gateway Green.