Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Radical Roots Farm Plant Sale and Farm Tour
May 22nd 11-4 with the tour at 3:00
Certified Naturally Grown Vegetable Transplants,
Culinary Herbs and Fruiting Shrubs!
We use all organic soil mix and fertilizers to bring you the highest quality edible plants for your organic garden. Over 100 varieties of edible garden plants to choose from.
Directions and more info
www.RadicalRootsFarm.com
2.
WANT TO DO SOMETHING FOR?
Market Central, a non-profit organization dedicated to promote and preserve the Charlottesville City Market, is sponsoring an event at the market on Saturday, June 5, 2010, (9 am to 1 pm) and we're looking for organizations and programs to participate as exhibitors.
The event, "Connecting the Dots in our Local Food System", will be an educational venue for market customers to learn about organizations and services that impact the area's sustainable food system. Although farmers markets play a vital role in the availability of healthy, fresh foods, there are many other ways that consumers can support the local food system. If you have an interest in local foods, we invite you to exhibit at this event. Thousands of dedicated market customers attend the market every Saturday, and this event will be a fantastic opportunity to:
• educate the community about your services/programs
• motivate consumers to learn what they can do to eat locally, sustainably, and well!
• enlist support and/or volunteers for your programs
Tents and tables for "Dots Day" will be available to exhibitors at no charge -- but you must reserve a space. Market Central will have a booth for resource information, and will be conducting an interactive survey of market customers on that date to gather data to use in long range planning for the City Market. For more information, please contact:
marketcentral@bnsi.net, or visit www.marketcentralonline.org
Thank you -- and ENJOY this gorgeous weather!
Kathy Kildea
kmkildea@bnsi.net
3.
GreenWorks Symposium at Piedmont Virginia Community College in Charlottesville
June 28th - EarthCraft Virginia Single Family Builder Training
June 29th - Advanced Energy: Arnie Katz
June 30th - Green Marketing / HVAC / Energy Star changes - 2011
LOCATION: PVCC
501 College Drive
Charlottesville, VA 22902
PRICE:
$225 two day conference
(June 29-30)
$275 includes EarthCraft
pre-conference training
(June 28-30)
Contact Daisy Massey
Phone: (804) 225-9843
daisy.massey@earthcraftvirginia.org
OR…
Contact Steve Reed
Phone: (804) 929-8395
sreed@habitatvirginia.org
SCHEDULE:
EarthCraft Virginia . 1431 W. Main Street . Richmond VA 23220 .
www.earthcraftvirginia.org
4.
Six Week Introduction to Herbal Healing at Sacred Plant Traditions in Charlottesville
Few more spaces remaining!
June 1 - July 6
and September 14 - October 19
This six week series is great for beginners as well as those who want to deepen their knowledge and use of herbal medicine. This course will include history, herbal actions, apothecary practices, recipes, sacred use of plants and more. The weeks fly by as we spend time in the classroom, the kitchen, the lab and best of all, the garden. We will learn how to identify basic back yard medicines as well as those cultivated in the garden. We will learn harvest techniques, how to dry and preserve our medicines.
Fee $200 (Deposit: $50).
Fee includes all materials & text.
Tuesdays Morning Classes, 10am - noon
REGISTER NOW
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
Upcoming Classes
Saturday June 26, 9:30 - 2:30
Designing a Medicine Garden; Intro to Permaculture
Sunday June 27, 9:30 - 2:30
Kitchen Apothecary; Make your Own Medicines
5.
Growing Gardens Workshops in Washington DC
http://www.commongoodcityfarm.org/growinggardens
June 3rd: Cooking Class #1. Th 5:30 - 7pm. ð
June 12th: Container Gardening. 11am -1pm. If you’ve always wanted to grow vegetables in that empty spot in your backyard or on your porch, this workshop is for you. We’ll show you how to fit plants in your space using pots, raised beds or even that old bathtub or tire that’s been laying around the backyard. Teacher: Jennifer Jefferson. (About Jennifer: Jennifer is a native Washingtonian with over 20 years of experience in gardening and container gardening. She has worked at Behnke’s Nursery as a perennial specialist and has a vast library on plants, flowers and herbs. Register Now!
July 10th: Cooking Class #2. 11am -1pm. ð Teacher: Tesia Love, of www.FlavorDiva.com Register Now!
August 14th: Uncommon Uses for Common Herbs. 11am -1pm. Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme -- you grow them in your garden and use them to flavor your cooking, but how else can they benefit you? Learn medicinal uses for the herbs in your spice rack, including fennel, mint, oregano, chamomile, and catnip by making teas and brews in this hands-on workshop.Teacher: Tricia McCauley of http://www.nutriciaconsulting.com/.
August 23rd: Preserving Summer Bounties. M 5pm - 7pm. Have too many summer veggies? Learn to can fruit and pickle veggies.
September 11th: Preserving Summer Bounties. 11am -1pm. Have too many summer veggies? Learn to can fruit and pickle veggies ð
October 9: Winterize your Garden
http://www.commongoodcityfarm.org/growinggardens
6.
Charlottesville Community Design Center lunch
AIA+CCDC Lunch Series: Connecting People with Place
Description: WaterStreet Studio is a multi-disciplinary environmental design firm providing landscape architecture, civil engineering, and conservation planning services to both public and private sectors. They endeavor to connect people to place, balancing a profound land ethic with an understanding and appreciation of built form. 1 AIA learning unit available. RSVP to elizabethrhodes.aiacv@gmail.com.
Date: Friday, May 21, 2010
Time: 12:00pm-1:00pm EDT
Duration: 1 hour
Updated: Tuesday, May 18, 2010 4:28pm GMT
http://www.cvilledesign.org/
7.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion, including a talk this evening at the University of Virginia (see below).
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
"Food Rebels and Smart Cookin' Mamas: Fighting Back in the Age of Industrial Agriculture"
Even while local food systems are careening into mainstream American culture, today's economic climate is also prompting a brand new segment of the American population to utilize food stamps and other measures against increasing hunger. How do we confront the obstacles to realizing a sustainable food system with fairness and sensitivity? Food insecurity expert Mark Winne, author of Closing the Food Gap as well as former Executive Director of the Hartford Food System, will speak on these and other community food system topics including local and regional agriculture, community food assessment, and food policy. Reception to follow.
Where: UVA, School of Architecture, Campbell Hall, Room 158
When: Tuesday, April 6, 5:30-6:30pm
2.
Forrest Green Farm in Louisa, VA will open for spring on April 15th.
Hours are Thursday thru Sunday 9-5 or by appointment on other days.
The family run farm offers culinary and medicinal herb plants, vegetable
plants (including a wide variety of heirloom tomatoes), and flower plants.
We also specialize in pastured poultry eggs and registered Miniature
Hereford cows.
We have expanded our workshops this year. We have workshops for adults and a
children's summer program. New this year is a foundational course in whole
living from the ground up. Great for someone who wants to learn hands on
gardening with herbs, how to use herbs for daily healthy living, and
connecting with the plants, seasons, and nature. For more on our workshops
check our website or call the farm.
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/workshops.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/wholeliving.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/meetherbs.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/childprgm.html
You can contact us at:
Forrest Green Farm LLC
Rob and Krista Rahm
(540) 967-1165
(434) 882-2648 cell
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
3.
Earth Week Eco-Fair
Sunday, April 18, 11am - 7pm at the Charlottesville Pavilion
1:00pm - Trees on Fire Meets the Beatles (Acoustic)
1:50pm - Naughty Dynamic and the Design
2:50pm - Beleza Brasil
3:55pm - William Walter and Co.
4:45pm - Harvey Wasserman speaks
5:00pm - Larry Keel and Natural Bridge
Local food, local beverages (remember the Anheuser-Busch brewery in
Williamsburg!), local government agencies working to preserve and protect the
environment, green businesses, conservationist organizations, and all sorts of
interesting, eco-friendly, and informative stuff.
ACCT's Children's Bicycle Rodeo from 1-3 in the Lexis Nexis parking deck -
bring the bike!
Children's Corner activities include tee-shirt painting, face-painting, hands-on
educational activities, demonstrations, etc.
Raffles include a 2010 Toyota Prius - tickets are only $25 and fund student
environmental education trips.
Other raffles (tickets $3, 2/$5):
-Compost Bin - Blue Ridge Eco Shop
-(3) 1-month memberships in the Outdoor Adventure Social Club
-Garden design and consultation by C'ville Foodscapes
-Gift Basket from Sustain, Inc.
-Gift Certificate from Green Irene
-(3) gift certificates for a 1-hour massage
-Gift certificate - EcoDry Cleaners
Get tickets at Blue Ridge Eco Shop in Preston Plaza, and at EcoDry Cleaners
on Main St.
Check out EarthWeek.org for more info on events, and a link to our forum and
online calendar
Check out earthweekuva.wordpress.com for tons of events by and through
UVA.
Check out the Earth Week forum and calendar, add your own events, post
your own topics, start your own discussions, etc.
QUESTIONS??? info@earthweek.org
4.
Roanoke: Urban Farming Course
URBAN FARMS SPROUTING IN ROANOKE
Farmers are changing the way food is produced.
New farmers are looking to their own backyards to produce food close to their city markets. No longer are barns and tractors de rigueur for a family farm. Small plots of land, managed for intensive production is the key. It boils down to two things: start up costs are low and the food is good.
VT EarthWorks and instructor Kathy O Hara have partnered to offer a 4-week series on urban farming on Tuesday nights beginning on April 6. We d like to spread the word about urban farming, and the management tools one needs to create a space that is both productive and profitable, Kathy O Hara said. Start up costs are pretty minimal for this kind of business, and the idea is to create a network of small intensive plot farmers who can share their experiences, knowledge, and markets.
VT EarthWorks, an entrepreneur acceleration program for agriculture and natural resource businesses, is working with regional food producers to provide business development services, including learning networks and connections to potential retail outlets (e.g., restaurants, institutions, farmers markets, grocers), to help build viable businesses and a vibrant regional food system. VT EarthWorks has partnered with Downtown Roanoke to offer graduates of the urban farming series space at the city market on Tuesdays. We worry about having access to fresh, healthy food and how far our food has travelled. Urban farming is a great way to supply more fresh food for your family and to the community and businesses of Roanoke.
Go to Urban Farming Class for additional information or to register, please go to http://www.cpe.vt.edu/reg/vtew.
5.
Lynchburg Green Spring Expo
Date: 4/10/2010 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: Free Location: Lynchburg City Armory
1219 Main St (upper level)
Lynchburg, Virginia 24504
This event will serve to educate citizens of Lynchburg and the surrounding counties to the wealth of community resources available to those interested in pursuing lifestyles of health and sustainability. Participants will have exposure to the vendors, practitioners and volunteer service providers who comprise this resource and best represent its value.
Its purpose is to acknowledge and promote the people, businesses and organizations who are helping to make our community healthier and stronger by taking the lead in the local green movement.
Contact: Mr. Mike Cundiff 434-528-1100
You can also visit the Lynchburg Farmer's Market which is right next door to the armory.
6.
Permaculture speaker request
We are co chairman of the Nelson County Master Gardener Intern Training Program being held this fall. We were interested in having someone come to our intern training for master gardener class to talk about permaculture and composting. Would you be able to suggest anyone? Tentatively, the date is Tuesday, Nov. 9th from 9 to 12 (or shorter) at the Nelson County Community Center. Please let me know. Thank you for your help.
434-263-8045
Nora & Charlie Harris
7.
Gaia Gathering for Women
April 30 - May 2
Join us again or for the first time as we celebrate Beltane by honoring our Earth Mother and the call of the Divine Feminine. Together we will honor the power of women’s community and help our world shift into the new consciousness of peace, healing and community living.As Alice Walker’s book title states “We are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For”.
The weekend will be about collective ceremony, song and learning skills for gardening, medicine making, stewarding the earth and so much more. The fee includes camping at beautiful Camp Albemarle, four delicious wild and organic meals, and most class materials. There are also rustic cabins available. We will begin Friday evening and end with our traditional web ceremony after lunch on Sunday. Now more than ever is the time for us to know how deeply we are connected.
This event is becoming wonderfully popular and unfortunately we needed to close registration last year towards the end. We are committed to keeping the price the same and as you can imagine, organic food, space rentals and fabulous teachers all add up to a great value. Our intention with this Gathering is not to become large but to create a deep and strong web of women energy for our bioregion and to bless the environs of Charlottesville with peace and security.
Fee for the weekend is $175.00. PLease call or visit website to register or find more information.
.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
8.
Plant Walks
and Introductions to Plant Skills
Monthly excursions into the world of plants
May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 9
At Wildcrofthollow Botanical Sanctuary, Amherst, VA
To be able to walk out of your door and find the things that you need to; eat, heal yourself and others, make fabrics, dye those fabrics, make baskets, rope, string, sounds like you live in paradise, doesn't it? You do. We always have. The ability to do these things is something that used to be common knowledge. These one-day introductory classes will give you personal introductions to many of the plant folks. They will also acquaint you with some of the possibilities those plants offer you. Each class is a plant walk for half of the day and an introduction to some of the skills you can learn to work with those plants for the second half of the day.
5/8 Plant walk/Introduction to Understandable Botany
How to become a plant sage
6/12 Plant walk/Introduction to Edibles and Foraging
What you can eat and how to find it
7/10 Plant walk/ Introduction to Medicinals
Local healing herbs
8/14 Plant walk/Introduction to Basketry
You always need someplace to put your stuff
9/11 Plant walk/Introduction to Dyeing
Color your world
10/9 Plant walk/Introduction to Cordage
Strings, ropes, fabrics
Tuition is $75/day or, if you pay ahead of time, $180 for three classes or $300 for all six. Lunch, with the wonderful Miz Lena's cooking, will be provided. $25 non-refundable deposit if you don't pay ahead. Please send to: David Welker, 1083 Sardis Rd., Amherst, VA 24521 Questions: call 434-946-7020
9.
Radical Roots Community Farm in Keezletown, VA, is expanding its Charlottesville Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program!
The farm has 50 shares available, with weekly pickup on Wednesdays from 3-7 pm at the Meade Park Farmers Market. For $450 ($25 per week), you will receive Radical Roots' Certified Naturally Grown produce from June through September. To learn more about Radical Roots and their CSA, visit www.RadicalRootsFarm.com or call (540) 269-2228.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support ecologically-minded agriculture and to eat well!
RadicalRootsFarm.com
3083 Flook Ln.
Keezletown, VA 22832
(540) 269-2228
10.
Charlottesville Community Design Center (CCDC) NEWS & EVENTS
JRGBC Luncheon: Saving Energy with the Local Energy Alliance Program
Tuesday, April 13 beginning at noon
Cynthia Adams, Executive Director of central Virginia's Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP), will give a presentation on energy efficiency and the community-based nonprofit which will be launching in the Charlottesville area. LEAP is a public-private partnership whose mission is to facilitate unprecedented energy savings in buildings through retrofits and occupant behavior. Discussion topics will include national legislation pertaining to energy efficiency, some building science basics, and information about Home Performance with ENERGY STAR – LEAP’s flagship residential program. Free and open to all - pre-register here - www.jrgbc.org/
Architecture Week is April 23-29
Architecture Week brings together design professionals and the public to celebrate the excellence, innovation and leadership within the architectural community. Visit the Architecture Week website for a complete schedule of events: http://aiacv-archweek.org/
More Than Just Bricks: A Social & Design History of Charlottesville's Downtown Mall
Current CCDC exhibit
Created in partnership with Preservation Piedmont and the UVA School of Architecture, More Than Just Bricks explores the historical and contemporary significance of Lawrence Halprin's design for Charlottesville's pedestrian mall.
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21. http://www.jrgbc.org/greenspaces/
www.cvilledesign.org
11.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion, including a talk this evening at the University of Virginia (see below).
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
"Food Rebels and Smart Cookin' Mamas: Fighting Back in the Age of Industrial Agriculture"
Even while local food systems are careening into mainstream American culture, today's economic climate is also prompting a brand new segment of the American population to utilize food stamps and other measures against increasing hunger. How do we confront the obstacles to realizing a sustainable food system with fairness and sensitivity? Food insecurity expert Mark Winne, author of Closing the Food Gap as well as former Executive Director of the Hartford Food System, will speak on these and other community food system topics including local and regional agriculture, community food assessment, and food policy. Reception to follow.
Where: UVA, School of Architecture, Campbell Hall, Room 158
When: Tuesday, April 6, 5:30-6:30pm
2.
Forrest Green Farm in Louisa, VA will open for spring on April 15th.
Hours are Thursday thru Sunday 9-5 or by appointment on other days.
The family run farm offers culinary and medicinal herb plants, vegetable
plants (including a wide variety of heirloom tomatoes), and flower plants.
We also specialize in pastured poultry eggs and registered Miniature
Hereford cows.
We have expanded our workshops this year. We have workshops for adults and a
children's summer program. New this year is a foundational course in whole
living from the ground up. Great for someone who wants to learn hands on
gardening with herbs, how to use herbs for daily healthy living, and
connecting with the plants, seasons, and nature. For more on our workshops
check our website or call the farm.
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/workshops.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/wholeliving.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/meetherbs.html
http://www.forrestgreenfarm.com/childprgm.html
You can contact us at:
Forrest Green Farm LLC
Rob and Krista Rahm
(540) 967-1165
(434) 882-2648 cell
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
3.
Earth Week Eco-Fair
Sunday, April 18, 11am - 7pm at the Charlottesville Pavilion
1:00pm - Trees on Fire Meets the Beatles (Acoustic)
1:50pm - Naughty Dynamic and the Design
2:50pm - Beleza Brasil
3:55pm - William Walter and Co.
4:45pm - Harvey Wasserman speaks
5:00pm - Larry Keel and Natural Bridge
Local food, local beverages (remember the Anheuser-Busch brewery in
Williamsburg!), local government agencies working to preserve and protect the
environment, green businesses, conservationist organizations, and all sorts of
interesting, eco-friendly, and informative stuff.
ACCT's Children's Bicycle Rodeo from 1-3 in the Lexis Nexis parking deck -
bring the bike!
Children's Corner activities include tee-shirt painting, face-painting, hands-on
educational activities, demonstrations, etc.
Raffles include a 2010 Toyota Prius - tickets are only $25 and fund student
environmental education trips.
Other raffles (tickets $3, 2/$5):
-Compost Bin - Blue Ridge Eco Shop
-(3) 1-month memberships in the Outdoor Adventure Social Club
-Garden design and consultation by C'ville Foodscapes
-Gift Basket from Sustain, Inc.
-Gift Certificate from Green Irene
-(3) gift certificates for a 1-hour massage
-Gift certificate - EcoDry Cleaners
Get tickets at Blue Ridge Eco Shop in Preston Plaza, and at EcoDry Cleaners
on Main St.
Check out EarthWeek.org for more info on events, and a link to our forum and
online calendar
Check out earthweekuva.wordpress.com for tons of events by and through
UVA.
Check out the Earth Week forum and calendar, add your own events, post
your own topics, start your own discussions, etc.
QUESTIONS??? info@earthweek.org
4.
Roanoke: Urban Farming Course
URBAN FARMS SPROUTING IN ROANOKE
Farmers are changing the way food is produced.
New farmers are looking to their own backyards to produce food close to their city markets. No longer are barns and tractors de rigueur for a family farm. Small plots of land, managed for intensive production is the key. It boils down to two things: start up costs are low and the food is good.
VT EarthWorks and instructor Kathy O Hara have partnered to offer a 4-week series on urban farming on Tuesday nights beginning on April 6. We d like to spread the word about urban farming, and the management tools one needs to create a space that is both productive and profitable, Kathy O Hara said. Start up costs are pretty minimal for this kind of business, and the idea is to create a network of small intensive plot farmers who can share their experiences, knowledge, and markets.
VT EarthWorks, an entrepreneur acceleration program for agriculture and natural resource businesses, is working with regional food producers to provide business development services, including learning networks and connections to potential retail outlets (e.g., restaurants, institutions, farmers markets, grocers), to help build viable businesses and a vibrant regional food system. VT EarthWorks has partnered with Downtown Roanoke to offer graduates of the urban farming series space at the city market on Tuesdays. We worry about having access to fresh, healthy food and how far our food has travelled. Urban farming is a great way to supply more fresh food for your family and to the community and businesses of Roanoke.
Go to Urban Farming Class for additional information or to register, please go to http://www.cpe.vt.edu/reg/vtew.
5.
Lynchburg Green Spring Expo
Date: 4/10/2010 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: Free Location: Lynchburg City Armory
1219 Main St (upper level)
Lynchburg, Virginia 24504
This event will serve to educate citizens of Lynchburg and the surrounding counties to the wealth of community resources available to those interested in pursuing lifestyles of health and sustainability. Participants will have exposure to the vendors, practitioners and volunteer service providers who comprise this resource and best represent its value.
Its purpose is to acknowledge and promote the people, businesses and organizations who are helping to make our community healthier and stronger by taking the lead in the local green movement.
Contact: Mr. Mike Cundiff 434-528-1100
You can also visit the Lynchburg Farmer's Market which is right next door to the armory.
6.
Permaculture speaker request
We are co chairman of the Nelson County Master Gardener Intern Training Program being held this fall. We were interested in having someone come to our intern training for master gardener class to talk about permaculture and composting. Would you be able to suggest anyone? Tentatively, the date is Tuesday, Nov. 9th from 9 to 12 (or shorter) at the Nelson County Community Center. Please let me know. Thank you for your help.
434-263-8045
Nora & Charlie Harris
7.
Gaia Gathering for Women
April 30 - May 2
Join us again or for the first time as we celebrate Beltane by honoring our Earth Mother and the call of the Divine Feminine. Together we will honor the power of women’s community and help our world shift into the new consciousness of peace, healing and community living.As Alice Walker’s book title states “We are the Ones We Have Been Waiting For”.
The weekend will be about collective ceremony, song and learning skills for gardening, medicine making, stewarding the earth and so much more. The fee includes camping at beautiful Camp Albemarle, four delicious wild and organic meals, and most class materials. There are also rustic cabins available. We will begin Friday evening and end with our traditional web ceremony after lunch on Sunday. Now more than ever is the time for us to know how deeply we are connected.
This event is becoming wonderfully popular and unfortunately we needed to close registration last year towards the end. We are committed to keeping the price the same and as you can imagine, organic food, space rentals and fabulous teachers all add up to a great value. Our intention with this Gathering is not to become large but to create a deep and strong web of women energy for our bioregion and to bless the environs of Charlottesville with peace and security.
Fee for the weekend is $175.00. PLease call or visit website to register or find more information.
.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
8.
Plant Walks
and Introductions to Plant Skills
Monthly excursions into the world of plants
May 8, June 12, July 10, Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 9
At Wildcrofthollow Botanical Sanctuary, Amherst, VA
To be able to walk out of your door and find the things that you need to; eat, heal yourself and others, make fabrics, dye those fabrics, make baskets, rope, string, sounds like you live in paradise, doesn't it? You do. We always have. The ability to do these things is something that used to be common knowledge. These one-day introductory classes will give you personal introductions to many of the plant folks. They will also acquaint you with some of the possibilities those plants offer you. Each class is a plant walk for half of the day and an introduction to some of the skills you can learn to work with those plants for the second half of the day.
5/8 Plant walk/Introduction to Understandable Botany
How to become a plant sage
6/12 Plant walk/Introduction to Edibles and Foraging
What you can eat and how to find it
7/10 Plant walk/ Introduction to Medicinals
Local healing herbs
8/14 Plant walk/Introduction to Basketry
You always need someplace to put your stuff
9/11 Plant walk/Introduction to Dyeing
Color your world
10/9 Plant walk/Introduction to Cordage
Strings, ropes, fabrics
Tuition is $75/day or, if you pay ahead of time, $180 for three classes or $300 for all six. Lunch, with the wonderful Miz Lena's cooking, will be provided. $25 non-refundable deposit if you don't pay ahead. Please send to: David Welker, 1083 Sardis Rd., Amherst, VA 24521 Questions: call 434-946-7020
9.
Radical Roots Community Farm in Keezletown, VA, is expanding its Charlottesville Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program!
The farm has 50 shares available, with weekly pickup on Wednesdays from 3-7 pm at the Meade Park Farmers Market. For $450 ($25 per week), you will receive Radical Roots' Certified Naturally Grown produce from June through September. To learn more about Radical Roots and their CSA, visit www.RadicalRootsFarm.com or call (540) 269-2228.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support ecologically-minded agriculture and to eat well!
RadicalRootsFarm.com
3083 Flook Ln.
Keezletown, VA 22832
(540) 269-2228
10.
Charlottesville Community Design Center (CCDC) NEWS & EVENTS
JRGBC Luncheon: Saving Energy with the Local Energy Alliance Program
Tuesday, April 13 beginning at noon
Cynthia Adams, Executive Director of central Virginia's Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP), will give a presentation on energy efficiency and the community-based nonprofit which will be launching in the Charlottesville area. LEAP is a public-private partnership whose mission is to facilitate unprecedented energy savings in buildings through retrofits and occupant behavior. Discussion topics will include national legislation pertaining to energy efficiency, some building science basics, and information about Home Performance with ENERGY STAR – LEAP’s flagship residential program. Free and open to all - pre-register here - www.jrgbc.org/
Architecture Week is April 23-29
Architecture Week brings together design professionals and the public to celebrate the excellence, innovation and leadership within the architectural community. Visit the Architecture Week website for a complete schedule of events: http://aiacv-archweek.org/
More Than Just Bricks: A Social & Design History of Charlottesville's Downtown Mall
Current CCDC exhibit
Created in partnership with Preservation Piedmont and the UVA School of Architecture, More Than Just Bricks explores the historical and contemporary significance of Lawrence Halprin's design for Charlottesville's pedestrian mall.
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21. http://www.jrgbc.org/greenspaces/
www.cvilledesign.org
11.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
Thursday, March 4, 2010
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Radical Roots Community Farm in Keezletown, VA, is expanding its Charlottesville Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program!
The farm has 50 shares available, with weekly pickup on Wednesdays from 3-7 pm at the Meade Park Farmers Market. For $450 ($25 per week), you will receive Radical Roots' Certified Naturally Grown produce from June through September. To learn more about Radical Roots and their CSA, visit www.RadicalRootsFarm.com or call (540) 269-2228.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support ecologically-minded agriculture and to eat well!
RadicalRootsFarm.com
3083 Flook Ln.
Keezletown, VA 22832
(540) 269-2228
2.
Common Good City Farm in Washington DC
RiverSmart Training Program, still has a three spots for volunteers at these schools:
John Tyler 1001 G Street, SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Emery Elementary 1712 First Street, N.E, Washington, D.C. 20003
Anne Beers 3600 Alabama Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20020
More Info at http://commongoodcityfarm.org/riversmart
Common Good City Farm will open for the season in April. We will send an update with the exact schedule and post it on our web site. Stay tuned to our web site to register for Farm workdays on March 13, 20, and 27th.
http://commongoodcityfarm.org/riversmart
3.
C'villeFoodscapes (formerly Patchwork Farms) is excited to invite you to our Launch Party, Sunday March 7th 2-5pm at Random Row Books (on Main Street across from the Greyhound Station) in Charlottesville.
We are preparing for an awesome season of designing, installing and maintaining home veggie gardens for folks all over Charlottesville.
Bring your friends and family to find out more about this new venture and start anticipating the gardening season!
Join us for a seed swap (bring seeds to share), fun garden crafts for kids and adults, live music, puppet show, yummy food, raffle (win your own small garden design!) and more.
For more information:
www.cvillefoodscapes.com
cvillefoodscapes.blogspot.com
You can contact us:
info@cvillefoodscapes.com
(434) 806-6255.
4.
Charlottesville Community Design Center Events
http://www.cvilledesign.org/
Our Water Our Future Opening Reception
Friday, March 5 from 5:30-7:30 pm
Presentation at 6 pm
In the CCDC gallery in March Charlottesville Tomorrow shares its independent analysis and history of the community's long-term water supply plans in a multimedia interactive exhibit. The public will get factual and objective information about our water supply goals, details of the 50-year water plan, the costs, the environmental advantages and disadvantages, potential alternatives, and an outline of the next steps that will move our community forward. The exhibit will be on display through March 31. Please visit CCDC's website for a complete listing of events on water-related topics to be hosted in association with the exhibit.
James River Green Building Council Luncheon: Creating Your Sustainable Company
Tuesday, March 9 at 12 pm
Seth Stallings, LEED Project Manager at Martin Horn and Hakon Mattson, co-founder of Blue Ridge Eco Shop and Consultant with ABM Industries Inc., will each give presentations focused on making your company or business more sustainable. Hear two case studies, one discussing the successes and challenges of going for LEED certification on an existing building, and one discussing the business case for sustainable practices in your company. The presentations will be followed by Q&A from the audience. JRGBC lunches are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Register online.
Public Hearing on the Dredging Feasibility Study
Tuesday, March 9 at 6 pm in CitySpace
This is the first in a series of events hosted in conjunction with the Our Water Our Future exhibit. Consultants for the Rivanna Sewer & Water Authority will present findings from the first phase of the dredging feasibility study for the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir and provide opportunity for public comment. Click here for more information.
OTHER EVENTS
Virginia Design Forum IX: An Architecture of Necessity
March 19-20 in Richmond, VA
What is the task of architecture? To transform one city, one neighborhood or one shelter? To create last solutions? To appeal to the human spirit? Join a world class array of speakers for an engaging and provocative discussion about the relationship between design, social agency and the task of architecture. Panelists include David Adjaye, Julie Eizenburg, Teddy Cruz, Andrew Freear and Ned Cramer. $20 for students, $145 for AIA members, $195 for full rate registration. Register online.
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21. More information
5.
Gentle Gardener Green Design online
www.gentlegardener.com
www.gentlegardener.typepad.com
web.me.com/gentlegardener - photo portfolio
6.
Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest
As spring slowly but surely emerges, and we all start thinking about warm days and the return of seasonal produce, I hope you'll check out a new venture I'm launching. Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest. Whatever your time, budget, or space constraints, we can offer you expertise to make your garden more productive than ever.
Matt Bierce, Mike Parisi and I started BRBH to help people connect to the rewarding and delicious experience of growing their own fruits and vegetables. In addition to backyard gardening, we also offer expertise in home poultry, small scale orcharding, garden coaching, food preservation and agri-ecological education for kids.
You can find us online at www.blueridgebackyard.com, and reach us at info@blueridgebackyard.com or 806-6157. We're also on Facebook, and we'd love it if you'd become a fan and help spread the word.
Thanks everyone, and happy (almost!) spring!
Guinevere
7.
Hello folks,
after a bit of a break to accommodate our mad winter storms, the
sustainability classes are re-starting. The fourth class will be:
Sunday, March 7, 2 PM, Woodfolk House and
Tuesday, March 9, 6 PM (potluck 5:30), Woodfolk House
The content will be:
Course IV
A) Democracy and Slavery
We will look how agricultural societies became centralized states, and
how these centralized states then evolved into either slave states,
empires, or democracies. We will look at the real roots of democracy and
slavery, and understand how they fit into the ecological context of
human societies. Far from being the inventions of great wise men, we
will examine how modern civil liberty evolved in Ancient Greece, Ancient
Rome, early industrial Europe, and the U.S. We will look at where things
are headed in our future.
B) Shelter
How to build a warm and cozy shelter out of junk. We will discuss the
trade-offs of simple versus more complex "alternative" technologies, and
work with simple shelter construction techniques. We will work with
strawbales and talk about other organic infill construction methods.
If you have a chance to RSVP via email, that would be helpful.
Alexis
alexis@conev.org
8.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Radical Roots Community Farm in Keezletown, VA, is expanding its Charlottesville Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program!
The farm has 50 shares available, with weekly pickup on Wednesdays from 3-7 pm at the Meade Park Farmers Market. For $450 ($25 per week), you will receive Radical Roots' Certified Naturally Grown produce from June through September. To learn more about Radical Roots and their CSA, visit www.RadicalRootsFarm.com or call (540) 269-2228.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support ecologically-minded agriculture and to eat well!
RadicalRootsFarm.com
3083 Flook Ln.
Keezletown, VA 22832
(540) 269-2228
2.
Common Good City Farm in Washington DC
RiverSmart Training Program, still has a three spots for volunteers at these schools:
John Tyler 1001 G Street, SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Emery Elementary 1712 First Street, N.E, Washington, D.C. 20003
Anne Beers 3600 Alabama Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20020
More Info at http://commongoodcityfarm.org/riversmart
Common Good City Farm will open for the season in April. We will send an update with the exact schedule and post it on our web site. Stay tuned to our web site to register for Farm workdays on March 13, 20, and 27th.
http://commongoodcityfarm.org/riversmart
3.
C'villeFoodscapes (formerly Patchwork Farms) is excited to invite you to our Launch Party, Sunday March 7th 2-5pm at Random Row Books (on Main Street across from the Greyhound Station) in Charlottesville.
We are preparing for an awesome season of designing, installing and maintaining home veggie gardens for folks all over Charlottesville.
Bring your friends and family to find out more about this new venture and start anticipating the gardening season!
Join us for a seed swap (bring seeds to share), fun garden crafts for kids and adults, live music, puppet show, yummy food, raffle (win your own small garden design!) and more.
For more information:
www.cvillefoodscapes.com
cvillefoodscapes.blogspot.com
You can contact us:
info@cvillefoodscapes.com
(434) 806-6255.
4.
Charlottesville Community Design Center Events
http://www.cvilledesign.org/
Our Water Our Future Opening Reception
Friday, March 5 from 5:30-7:30 pm
Presentation at 6 pm
In the CCDC gallery in March Charlottesville Tomorrow shares its independent analysis and history of the community's long-term water supply plans in a multimedia interactive exhibit. The public will get factual and objective information about our water supply goals, details of the 50-year water plan, the costs, the environmental advantages and disadvantages, potential alternatives, and an outline of the next steps that will move our community forward. The exhibit will be on display through March 31. Please visit CCDC's website for a complete listing of events on water-related topics to be hosted in association with the exhibit.
James River Green Building Council Luncheon: Creating Your Sustainable Company
Tuesday, March 9 at 12 pm
Seth Stallings, LEED Project Manager at Martin Horn and Hakon Mattson, co-founder of Blue Ridge Eco Shop and Consultant with ABM Industries Inc., will each give presentations focused on making your company or business more sustainable. Hear two case studies, one discussing the successes and challenges of going for LEED certification on an existing building, and one discussing the business case for sustainable practices in your company. The presentations will be followed by Q&A from the audience. JRGBC lunches are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Register online.
Public Hearing on the Dredging Feasibility Study
Tuesday, March 9 at 6 pm in CitySpace
This is the first in a series of events hosted in conjunction with the Our Water Our Future exhibit. Consultants for the Rivanna Sewer & Water Authority will present findings from the first phase of the dredging feasibility study for the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir and provide opportunity for public comment. Click here for more information.
OTHER EVENTS
Virginia Design Forum IX: An Architecture of Necessity
March 19-20 in Richmond, VA
What is the task of architecture? To transform one city, one neighborhood or one shelter? To create last solutions? To appeal to the human spirit? Join a world class array of speakers for an engaging and provocative discussion about the relationship between design, social agency and the task of architecture. Panelists include David Adjaye, Julie Eizenburg, Teddy Cruz, Andrew Freear and Ned Cramer. $20 for students, $145 for AIA members, $195 for full rate registration. Register online.
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21. More information
5.
Gentle Gardener Green Design online
www.gentlegardener.com
www.gentlegardener.typepad.com
web.me.com/gentlegardener - photo portfolio
6.
Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest
As spring slowly but surely emerges, and we all start thinking about warm days and the return of seasonal produce, I hope you'll check out a new venture I'm launching. Blue Ridge Backyard Harvest. Whatever your time, budget, or space constraints, we can offer you expertise to make your garden more productive than ever.
Matt Bierce, Mike Parisi and I started BRBH to help people connect to the rewarding and delicious experience of growing their own fruits and vegetables. In addition to backyard gardening, we also offer expertise in home poultry, small scale orcharding, garden coaching, food preservation and agri-ecological education for kids.
You can find us online at www.blueridgebackyard.com, and reach us at info@blueridgebackyard.com or 806-6157. We're also on Facebook, and we'd love it if you'd become a fan and help spread the word.
Thanks everyone, and happy (almost!) spring!
Guinevere
7.
Hello folks,
after a bit of a break to accommodate our mad winter storms, the
sustainability classes are re-starting. The fourth class will be:
Sunday, March 7, 2 PM, Woodfolk House and
Tuesday, March 9, 6 PM (potluck 5:30), Woodfolk House
The content will be:
Course IV
A) Democracy and Slavery
We will look how agricultural societies became centralized states, and
how these centralized states then evolved into either slave states,
empires, or democracies. We will look at the real roots of democracy and
slavery, and understand how they fit into the ecological context of
human societies. Far from being the inventions of great wise men, we
will examine how modern civil liberty evolved in Ancient Greece, Ancient
Rome, early industrial Europe, and the U.S. We will look at where things
are headed in our future.
B) Shelter
How to build a warm and cozy shelter out of junk. We will discuss the
trade-offs of simple versus more complex "alternative" technologies, and
work with simple shelter construction techniques. We will work with
strawbales and talk about other organic infill construction methods.
If you have a chance to RSVP via email, that would be helpful.
Alexis
alexis@conev.org
8.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
Monday, February 8, 2010
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion – lots of exciting happenings coming up including a permaculture potluck and community talk with Dave Jacke, author of Edible Forest Gardens, this Sat. Feb. 13, and Toby Hemenway, author of Gaia’s Garden, on Thurs. Feb. 11 in Harrisonburg! We hope to see you there!
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
PERMACULTURE COMMUNITY PRESENTATION and POTLUCK in Harrisonburg, VA
Come One, Come All!
With special guest Dave Jacke, for a talk on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Sat. Feb. 13th, 2010
Potluck 6:30 -7:30 (bring a dish and utensils)
Talk from 7:30 – 9:00 pm
Location: Martin Chapel, located in the Seminary building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA
Click on the Map link from the website:
http://www.emu.edu/map/sem.html
For additional information, see the website:
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
RSVP and Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, by emailing Terry Lilley at:
tygerlilley@gmail.com
2.
Biomimicry: Our Plant Mentors,
Learning from the World’s Flora
with Toby Hemenway
Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:00
James Madison University Arboretum in Harrisonburg, VA
Biomimicry is a new discipline that imitates nature’s best designs and processes to solve human problems in sustainable ways. Plants, in particular, are marvelous and ingenious teachers, showing us non-toxic ways to add color to industrial products, create waterproof, breathable fabrics, design biodegradable yet sturdy packaging, and inspiring our designs and goods in countless other ways. Using stunning images and clear lively explanations, Toby Hemenway will take us to the frontiers of ecological designs.
Mr. Hemenway is the author of the first major North American book on permaculture, Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home Scale Permaculture, an adjunct professor at Portland State University and a Scholar in Residence at Pacific University. His current project is developing urban sustainability resources in Portland, Oregon teaching and lecturing on ecological design.
This lecture is open free to the public. Visit the arboretum website at www.jmu.edu/arboretum to learn more information about the annual Frances Litten Lecture, or to learn about any of the many public events and programs offered seasonally, or call (540) 568-3194 weekdays from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm.
3.
Forrest Green Farm
Rob and Krista Rahm
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
2010 Full Time Apprentice
This position is for someone who is dedicated to working full-time on the farm May- September. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is serious about learning to become self-reliant and learn herb and vegetable farming. The apprentice will have the opportunity to work on all areas of the farm. Learning all aspects of herbal growing from seed to harvest, preserving, medicine making, culinary herbal cooking, vegetable growing, producing for and selling at farmer’s markets, helping with and attending group workshops (if desired), canning and preserving of vegetable & fruit crops.
The successful applicant should be independent, resourceful, hard working, passionately interested in herbs (culinary and medicinal) and vegetable growing. They should also be comfortable living in a family farm setting (children & animals…dogs, cats, horses, cows, and chickens) and dealing with the public. Serious folks only that are willing to make a season commitment. No drug users!
Tent camping or house space available, basic foods, access to on farm vegetable garden, and at least one cooked meal a day provided. Also included are the herbs for your medicine making to create your own herbal medicines.
2010 Part-Time Apprentice
This position is for someone wanting to work 1-2 days a week on the farm. We ask for a commitment of at least 6 weeks any time from March-October. This position is flexible and for the person who desires to gain some working knowledge in any aspect gardening at Forrest Green Farm. Focus can be concentrated on herbal knowledge or vegetable growing or any combination of the two.
A meal is included for the days you work on the farm, vegetables from our garden, and herbs for medicine making are included for this position. If desired, tent camping is available for the part-time position.
Please contact us to find out more about the apprenticeship positions and/or schedule an interview. 540-967-1165 or 434-882-2648
4.
February 15 Monday
7:30 P.M. "Regenerative Commerce: Healing the Planet and Her Peoples with Trade and Investment" by Greg Landua
Martin Science Building 315
Greg Landau is an eco-social entrepreneur whose interests lie in permaculture design, ecovillage design, teaching, and regenerative commerce. Learn about his project, Booyacacao, a "beyond fair-trade" chocolate business, and find out how sustainably farmed chocolate can help heal the world.
http://web.randolphcollege.edu/newsevents/calendar.asp
-scroll down to Feb 15th
5.
Sharondale Farm Mushroom Workshops:
www.sharondalefarm.com
March 20th or April 3rd - Growing Mushrooms at Home: an introduction to cultivating gourmet and medicinal mushrooms- Sharondale Farm, Cismont (http://shop.sharondalefarm.com/) $55.
March 27th- Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- Tricycle Gardens, Richmond (http://tricyclegardens.org/programs/). $50
April 10th –Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- Alexander House Cooperative, Charlottesville. $50.
April 17th - Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- New Community Project/ Muddy Bike Garden, Harrisonburg. $50.
Events and Classes:
February 20th- Specialty Mushroom Production- Virginia Association for Biological Farming Conference, Danville (http://vabf.org/)
Spring 2010- Introduction to Mushroom Culture – J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College- Goochland (http://www.jsr.cc.va.us/_schedules/2010_Spring/HRT.htm
www.sharondalefarm.com
6.
Common Good City Farm events (in Washington DC)
EVENT: Saturday February 20, all day long
ROOTING DC: A FREE forum for urban gardening and all people who eat food
You are invited to attend this forum designed to bring DC gardeners together to reconnect. Join us to share resources and foster partnerships between those who are working towards common goals of a greener, healthier DC! The day is filled with talks, workshops and lectures on almost every food and garden related topic. Lots of snack and free seeds provided.
More information at www.rootingdc.org
7.
Charlottesville Community Design Center
James River Green Building Council Luncheon: Transforming the Making of Things
Tuesday, February 9 at 12 pm
Tish Tablan and Emily McDermott of McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry will share their firm's perspective on a broad range of critical environmental health issues as they relate to material specification and environmentally preferable purchasing. The presentation will also feature a behind-the-scenes perspective on MBDC's innovative Cradle to Cradle Design paradigm. JRGBC lunches are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Register http://www.jrgbc.org/
6th edition Olio
Friday, February 26 at 8 pm
Olio is an open forum for the presentation of creative pursuits that seeks to spark new collaborations, conceptions, and relationships in the Charlottesville art and design community. Each speaker has 20 slides and 20 seconds per slide to present their work. There are still three spots open for presenters, email Lowell at: contact@olionight.org if you are interested.
http://olionight.org/
UPCOMING EXHIBITION
Our Water Our Future | March 1 - 31
In March Charlottesville Tomorrow will share its independent analysis and history of Charlottesville-Albemarle's long-term water supply plans in an engaging and interactive exhibit. The public will get factual and objective information about our water supply goals, details of the 50-year water plan, the costs, the environmental advantages and disadvantages, potential alternatives, and an outline of the next steps that will move our community forward. Please join us for the First Friday opening reception on March 5.
http://www.cvilledesign.org/
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21.
http://www.jrgbc.org/green-spaces-competition-gallery-display/
8.
FIGHT TO KEEP OUR MOUNTAINS AND STREAMS
For the first time ever, the Virginia General Assembly has the opportunity to vote on a bill that would protect these treasures from mountaintop removal coal mining! The Stream Saver Bill - SB 564 - would end the burial of our headwater streams with strip mining spoil and curtail the destruction of our mountains in southwest Virginia.
Follow your heart and join us Thursday February 11th at 3:00 PM at the bell tower on the General Assembly grounds in Richmond for a RALLY FOR THE MOUNTAINS and a special Senate Committee hearing on the issue at 4:00 PM.
This is a rare opportunity to proclaim your love for the mountains and the clear mountain streams that flow from them. It is your opportunity to speak up for one of the Commonwealth's greatest treasures.
https://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5020/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=18300
9.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
10.
FREE SOLAR WEBINAR
The Solar Living Institute Presents:
Opportunities in Solar: Business, Investment, Jobs
With Charles Liu, President of Everbright Solar
Join us for a Free Webinar on February 18
This Webinar is FREE!
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/533398536
The Solar Living Institute is proud to announce the launch of our new webinar series! Join us each month as we bring you high-value current information and insightful perspectives to advance your solar knowledge. Check our course calendar and newsletter as we add future topics.
http://www.solarliving.org/workshops/?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_campaign=5b997c3c47-Solar_Business_Training_Series_Sept_20098_12_2009&utm_medium=email
11.
Shelter for Haiti Tent Drive through Blue Ridge Mountain Sports stores with assistance from Convoy of Hope.
Beginning January 27th, all Blue Ridge Mountain Sports locations began serving as drop-off points for the Shelter for Haiti tent drive. In an effort to provide critically needed shelter for victims of the January 12th earthquake that struck Haiti, Blue Ridge staff will be collecting tents in good working condition with all parts accounted for and any new tarps people are willing to donate.
All tents & tarps will be inspected and shipped to Convoy of Hope in Missouri, a 501(c)3 non-profit aid relief agency with staff working directly out of the Convoy of Hope warehouse outside of Haiti's capital city, Port-au-Prince. Since the earthquake, Convoy of Hope has shipped 12 shipping containers of badly needed food & supplies in addition to their staff providing medical aid to injured Haitians.
Following President Rene Preval's request for 200,000 tents, Blue Ridge
Mountain Sports contacted Convoy of Hope among other aid agencies
searching for an outlet to ship donated tents.
"Competition for the canvas homes has boiled into arguments and machete
fights, a sign of the desperation felt by the hundreds of thousands of people without homes struggling for shelter in this wrecked city. Haiti's president has asked the world for 200,000 tents and says he will sleep in one himself."
Next to food and medical supplies, shelter is the next primary concern as Haiti begins to see increased temperatures & rain moving into the spring months.
"Outside of the food area, the two prime worries are: one, medical services or medical equipment, and, two, shelter," said Lewis Lucke, U.S. special coordinator for relief and reconstruction."
As an additional incentive, Blue Ridge Mountain Sports is offering 20% off all tents & tarps with the donation of an old tent or new tarp for Haitian aid relief. Thanks go to Mountain Hardwear & MSR for their additional assistance.
To find the nearest Blue Ridge Mountain Sports location, visit
www.brms.com/insideBRMS.
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion – lots of exciting happenings coming up including a permaculture potluck and community talk with Dave Jacke, author of Edible Forest Gardens, this Sat. Feb. 13, and Toby Hemenway, author of Gaia’s Garden, on Thurs. Feb. 11 in Harrisonburg! We hope to see you there!
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
PERMACULTURE COMMUNITY PRESENTATION and POTLUCK in Harrisonburg, VA
Come One, Come All!
With special guest Dave Jacke, for a talk on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Sat. Feb. 13th, 2010
Potluck 6:30 -7:30 (bring a dish and utensils)
Talk from 7:30 – 9:00 pm
Location: Martin Chapel, located in the Seminary building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA
Click on the Map link from the website:
http://www.emu.edu/map/sem.html
For additional information, see the website:
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
RSVP and Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, by emailing Terry Lilley at:
tygerlilley@gmail.com
2.
Biomimicry: Our Plant Mentors,
Learning from the World’s Flora
with Toby Hemenway
Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:00
James Madison University Arboretum in Harrisonburg, VA
Biomimicry is a new discipline that imitates nature’s best designs and processes to solve human problems in sustainable ways. Plants, in particular, are marvelous and ingenious teachers, showing us non-toxic ways to add color to industrial products, create waterproof, breathable fabrics, design biodegradable yet sturdy packaging, and inspiring our designs and goods in countless other ways. Using stunning images and clear lively explanations, Toby Hemenway will take us to the frontiers of ecological designs.
Mr. Hemenway is the author of the first major North American book on permaculture, Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home Scale Permaculture, an adjunct professor at Portland State University and a Scholar in Residence at Pacific University. His current project is developing urban sustainability resources in Portland, Oregon teaching and lecturing on ecological design.
This lecture is open free to the public. Visit the arboretum website at www.jmu.edu/arboretum to learn more information about the annual Frances Litten Lecture, or to learn about any of the many public events and programs offered seasonally, or call (540) 568-3194 weekdays from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm.
3.
Forrest Green Farm
Rob and Krista Rahm
www.forrestgreenfarm.com
2010 Full Time Apprentice
This position is for someone who is dedicated to working full-time on the farm May- September. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is serious about learning to become self-reliant and learn herb and vegetable farming. The apprentice will have the opportunity to work on all areas of the farm. Learning all aspects of herbal growing from seed to harvest, preserving, medicine making, culinary herbal cooking, vegetable growing, producing for and selling at farmer’s markets, helping with and attending group workshops (if desired), canning and preserving of vegetable & fruit crops.
The successful applicant should be independent, resourceful, hard working, passionately interested in herbs (culinary and medicinal) and vegetable growing. They should also be comfortable living in a family farm setting (children & animals…dogs, cats, horses, cows, and chickens) and dealing with the public. Serious folks only that are willing to make a season commitment. No drug users!
Tent camping or house space available, basic foods, access to on farm vegetable garden, and at least one cooked meal a day provided. Also included are the herbs for your medicine making to create your own herbal medicines.
2010 Part-Time Apprentice
This position is for someone wanting to work 1-2 days a week on the farm. We ask for a commitment of at least 6 weeks any time from March-October. This position is flexible and for the person who desires to gain some working knowledge in any aspect gardening at Forrest Green Farm. Focus can be concentrated on herbal knowledge or vegetable growing or any combination of the two.
A meal is included for the days you work on the farm, vegetables from our garden, and herbs for medicine making are included for this position. If desired, tent camping is available for the part-time position.
Please contact us to find out more about the apprenticeship positions and/or schedule an interview. 540-967-1165 or 434-882-2648
4.
February 15 Monday
7:30 P.M. "Regenerative Commerce: Healing the Planet and Her Peoples with Trade and Investment" by Greg Landua
Martin Science Building 315
Greg Landau is an eco-social entrepreneur whose interests lie in permaculture design, ecovillage design, teaching, and regenerative commerce. Learn about his project, Booyacacao, a "beyond fair-trade" chocolate business, and find out how sustainably farmed chocolate can help heal the world.
http://web.randolphcollege.edu/newsevents/calendar.asp
-scroll down to Feb 15th
5.
Sharondale Farm Mushroom Workshops:
www.sharondalefarm.com
March 20th or April 3rd - Growing Mushrooms at Home: an introduction to cultivating gourmet and medicinal mushrooms- Sharondale Farm, Cismont (http://shop.sharondalefarm.com/) $55.
March 27th- Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- Tricycle Gardens, Richmond (http://tricyclegardens.org/programs/). $50
April 10th –Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- Alexander House Cooperative, Charlottesville. $50.
April 17th - Got Mushroom? Growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms in urban and small spaces- New Community Project/ Muddy Bike Garden, Harrisonburg. $50.
Events and Classes:
February 20th- Specialty Mushroom Production- Virginia Association for Biological Farming Conference, Danville (http://vabf.org/)
Spring 2010- Introduction to Mushroom Culture – J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College- Goochland (http://www.jsr.cc.va.us/_schedules/2010_Spring/HRT.htm
www.sharondalefarm.com
6.
Common Good City Farm events (in Washington DC)
EVENT: Saturday February 20, all day long
ROOTING DC: A FREE forum for urban gardening and all people who eat food
You are invited to attend this forum designed to bring DC gardeners together to reconnect. Join us to share resources and foster partnerships between those who are working towards common goals of a greener, healthier DC! The day is filled with talks, workshops and lectures on almost every food and garden related topic. Lots of snack and free seeds provided.
More information at www.rootingdc.org
7.
Charlottesville Community Design Center
James River Green Building Council Luncheon: Transforming the Making of Things
Tuesday, February 9 at 12 pm
Tish Tablan and Emily McDermott of McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry will share their firm's perspective on a broad range of critical environmental health issues as they relate to material specification and environmentally preferable purchasing. The presentation will also feature a behind-the-scenes perspective on MBDC's innovative Cradle to Cradle Design paradigm. JRGBC lunches are free and open to the public, but advance registration is required. Register http://www.jrgbc.org/
6th edition Olio
Friday, February 26 at 8 pm
Olio is an open forum for the presentation of creative pursuits that seeks to spark new collaborations, conceptions, and relationships in the Charlottesville art and design community. Each speaker has 20 slides and 20 seconds per slide to present their work. There are still three spots open for presenters, email Lowell at: contact@olionight.org if you are interested.
http://olionight.org/
UPCOMING EXHIBITION
Our Water Our Future | March 1 - 31
In March Charlottesville Tomorrow will share its independent analysis and history of Charlottesville-Albemarle's long-term water supply plans in an engaging and interactive exhibit. The public will get factual and objective information about our water supply goals, details of the 50-year water plan, the costs, the environmental advantages and disadvantages, potential alternatives, and an outline of the next steps that will move our community forward. Please join us for the First Friday opening reception on March 5.
http://www.cvilledesign.org/
COMPETITION ANNOUCEMENT
Stay-Space: 2010 James River Green Building Council Green Spaces Competition
This year’s James competition challenge is meant to provide real and inspiring solutions to the land-use questions that face the City of Richmond. Building off of last year’s Play Space challenge, this year’s entrants are asked to look at the remaining 34 +/- acres on the Greater Fulton Gas Works site and develop a plan or design for that land that provides space for living, working, recreation or something entirely different if it feels right. The site can be designed for residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural development or something different and unexpected. Students and professionals are invited to enter the competition. Individuals may enter although interdisciplinary teams are encouraged and may be composed of students and professionals. Entries are due by May 21.
http://www.jrgbc.org/green-spaces-competition-gallery-display/
8.
FIGHT TO KEEP OUR MOUNTAINS AND STREAMS
For the first time ever, the Virginia General Assembly has the opportunity to vote on a bill that would protect these treasures from mountaintop removal coal mining! The Stream Saver Bill - SB 564 - would end the burial of our headwater streams with strip mining spoil and curtail the destruction of our mountains in southwest Virginia.
Follow your heart and join us Thursday February 11th at 3:00 PM at the bell tower on the General Assembly grounds in Richmond for a RALLY FOR THE MOUNTAINS and a special Senate Committee hearing on the issue at 4:00 PM.
This is a rare opportunity to proclaim your love for the mountains and the clear mountain streams that flow from them. It is your opportunity to speak up for one of the Commonwealth's greatest treasures.
https://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/5020/p/salsa/event/common/public/?event_KEY=18300
9.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
10.
FREE SOLAR WEBINAR
The Solar Living Institute Presents:
Opportunities in Solar: Business, Investment, Jobs
With Charles Liu, President of Everbright Solar
Join us for a Free Webinar on February 18
This Webinar is FREE!
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/533398536
The Solar Living Institute is proud to announce the launch of our new webinar series! Join us each month as we bring you high-value current information and insightful perspectives to advance your solar knowledge. Check our course calendar and newsletter as we add future topics.
http://www.solarliving.org/workshops/?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_campaign=5b997c3c47-Solar_Business_Training_Series_Sept_20098_12_2009&utm_medium=email
11.
Shelter for Haiti Tent Drive through Blue Ridge Mountain Sports stores with assistance from Convoy of Hope.
Beginning January 27th, all Blue Ridge Mountain Sports locations began serving as drop-off points for the Shelter for Haiti tent drive. In an effort to provide critically needed shelter for victims of the January 12th earthquake that struck Haiti, Blue Ridge staff will be collecting tents in good working condition with all parts accounted for and any new tarps people are willing to donate.
All tents & tarps will be inspected and shipped to Convoy of Hope in Missouri, a 501(c)3 non-profit aid relief agency with staff working directly out of the Convoy of Hope warehouse outside of Haiti's capital city, Port-au-Prince. Since the earthquake, Convoy of Hope has shipped 12 shipping containers of badly needed food & supplies in addition to their staff providing medical aid to injured Haitians.
Following President Rene Preval's request for 200,000 tents, Blue Ridge
Mountain Sports contacted Convoy of Hope among other aid agencies
searching for an outlet to ship donated tents.
"Competition for the canvas homes has boiled into arguments and machete
fights, a sign of the desperation felt by the hundreds of thousands of people without homes struggling for shelter in this wrecked city. Haiti's president has asked the world for 200,000 tents and says he will sleep in one himself."
Next to food and medical supplies, shelter is the next primary concern as Haiti begins to see increased temperatures & rain moving into the spring months.
"Outside of the food area, the two prime worries are: one, medical services or medical equipment, and, two, shelter," said Lewis Lucke, U.S. special coordinator for relief and reconstruction."
As an additional incentive, Blue Ridge Mountain Sports is offering 20% off all tents & tarps with the donation of an old tent or new tarp for Haitian aid relief. Thanks go to Mountain Hardwear & MSR for their additional assistance.
To find the nearest Blue Ridge Mountain Sports location, visit
www.brms.com/insideBRMS.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion – lots of exciting happenings coming up including a potluck and community talk with Dave Jacke on Feb. 13 in Harrisonburg!
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
Starts this weekend! There may be a few spaces left. Email to inquire.
The spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, $995-$1200. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com.
2.
PERMACULTURE COMMUNITY PRESENTATION and POTLUCK in Harrisonburg, VA
Come One, Come All!
With special guest Dave Jacke, for a talk on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Sat. Feb. 13th, 2010
Potluck 6:30 -7:30 (bring a dish and utensils)
Talk from 7:30 – 9:00 pm
Location: Martin Chapel, located in the Seminary building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA
Click on the Map link from the website:
http://www.emu.edu/map/sem.html
For additional information, see the website:
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
RSVP and Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, by emailing Terry Lilley at:
tygerlilley@gmail.com
3.
SAVE THE DATE!
Will Allen workshops return to Lynchburg Grows
March 5-6, 2010 (Fri. & Sat.)
Lynchburg Grows is welcoming back urban-farm guru Will Allen for two days of
workshops, March 5-6, 2010 (Fri. & Sat.). Allen, a 2008 MacArthur
fellowship recipient and co-founder of Milwaukee-based Growing Power, Inc. (www.GrowingPower.org), taught hands-on
workshops at Lynchburg Grows in the Spring of 2009 that focused on worm
farming, aquaponics (using fish to grow plants), growing and selling
chemical-free produce and building local food systems.
Lynchburg Grows is a Regional Outreach Training Center for Growing Power.
Contact Michael G. Van Ness, Executive Director, Lynchburg Grows at
michaelv@lynchburggrows.org for more workshop information.
Office: 1339 Englewood St., Lynchburg, VA 24501
Directions: Englewood is off Fort Ave., one street south of Lynchburg City
Stadium.
Drive to the end of the road; the office is located in the concrete building
to the right.
Phone: (434) 846-5665 Web Site:
www.LynchburgGrows.org
"Changing lives one garden at a time."
4.
Central Virginia Community College (in Lynchburg) continuing education class
“Choices for Sustainable Living” which runs two Tuesday evenings: Feb 2 & 9 from 7 to 9pm.
The purpose of the class is for each participant to come away with a deeper understanding of our environmental situation and realize the impact of everyday choices. Reducing energy and resource consumption will play center stage as we tackle issues in our homes, shopping carts, cars, gardens and communities. Active participation is essential! By course end, everyone will have a plan and tools to live lighter and be an active force in the shift toward sustainable living. This course will go way beyond just changing your light bulbs.
What’s the catch? CVCC charges a small fee for course ($79). But you should be able to make that up with all the money and energy saving you’ll be doing after the course. We are aiming for 90% reductions in most areas.
For more information, the link for the course flyer is:
http://www.cv.cc.va.us/Continuing%20Education/Flyers/sustainable%20living.pdf
and the CVCC Continuing Education page:
http://www.cv.cc.va.us/Continuing%20Education/default.asp
or contact the instructor, Vicky Peterson, at
5.
Please spread the word about the debut of “Exploring the Small Farm Dream” course in Charlottesville in February 2010. More information available at:
http://www.pecva.org/anx/index.cfm/1,266,2727,0,html/Feb-1-8-15-22-amp-Mar-6-Exploring-the-Small-Farm-Dream.
Who should attend?
Career changers and farm newbies breaking into agricultural pursuits
Farm apprentices interested in launching their own careers
Current farmers expanding into a new enterprise
Anyone considering starting a farm business on their property
Learn from guest speakers:
Richard Bean of Double H Farm
Ramona and Collins Huff of Gryffon’s Aerie
Gail Hobbs-Page of Caromont Farm
Lee O’Neill of Radical Roots Community Farm
Chuck and Charlotte Shelton of Albemarle Ciderworks
Tom and Anita Weber of Heaven and Earth Acres
Exploring the Small Farm Dream
Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 (optional field trip March 6th to Local Food Hub Educational Farm )
At Piedmont Virginia Community College (Charlottesville)
Register by visiting www.pvcc.edu (Search Spring 2010, Noncredit, Agriculture & Natural Resources – Exploring the Small Farm Dream)
or call 434-961-5354 – Workforce Services at Piedmont Virginia Community College.
Cost: $149 for 4 sessions, field trip and workbook
Stacey Carlberg
Fellowship Coordinator
Piedmont Environmental Council
540-341-0175 ext.1
6.
The Art of Wild Fermentation
One-Day Class: Saturday, January 16
10am – 2:30pm
Learn to make delicious lacto-fermented foods in this hands-on workshop. Fermentation is a traditional way of food preparation that not only preserves the harvest but also yields greater nourishment, a healthier digestive system, and thus increased vitality. We will make kimchi, brined garlic, lacto-fermented beets and ginger carrots, all of which can be easily incorporated into meals. We will also make some fermented and cultured beverages including kombucha, honey wine and sodas that are actually good for you. There will be a wide array of samples and you will leave with the skills necessary to begin lacto-fermenting foods at home.
This class will be taught by community herbalist, Suzanna Stone
Herbal teas will be provided at all the one day workshops. Please pack a bag lunch.
Fee for the class is $75.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
Sacred Plant Traditions
Weekend Foundations Class in 2010 (almost full) in herbal medicine.
These programs are for those wishing to help their friends and families maintain health, deepen their plant knowledge or begin the training as a community herbalist. The curriculum is dynamic, contemplative and provides a sense of community as we move through the seasons learning each step of the process.
We begin with learning how to listen to the landscape before we even make a change in the garden. We learn Stephen Buhner’s Deep Diagnostic work as well as other techniques for working directly with the land. We then move to permaculture & biodynamic practices to see that medicine is borne of the soil and the environment. Herbalists are synonymous with eco activists as we tend and steward all places to protect the medicines. We will learn the nature of nature – ours as well as our gardens, fields and meadows. In June we will take a field trip to Southern Virginia Herbals, home and herb farm of Robbie Wooding. We will see woods grown goldenseal, ginseng and other woodland medicinals and experience the challenges, possibilities and enchantment of living the tradition of the land.
We will study the organ systems and their anatomy, physiology and basic functioning. We will focus on Western definitions of body systems with a major focus being constitutional language of Eclectics and contemporary teachers such as Michael Moore, Matthew Wood and others. We will follow the seasons learning the language of Traditional Chinese Medicine as it relates to the changes that are affected by moving through the wheel of the year.
Please see website for more info. Interviews are required.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
7.
Online Seminars:
Urban Beekeeping: Dos and Don'ts - Ins and Outs
If you live in an urban area and are keeping bees or have thought about keeping bees than you won't want to miss this. We will have a conversation with 3 urban beekeepers with very different backgrounds and approaches. Cindy Bee, a beekeeper in the Atlanta, GA area, Toni Burnham in Washington, DC, and Cameo Wood in San Francisco. Registration is free but space is limited.
Title: Urban Beekeeping: Dos and Don'ts - Ins and Outs
Date: Sunday, January 24. 2010
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/153470658
8.
LIVING EARTH School Spring INTERNSHIP: We offer a spring internship beginning
in mid March- May, 2010. It is an instructor training program based in nature mentoring, primitive living skills, natural history, plus permaculture and gardening opportunities. Our unique Earth Based Mentoring model, allows participants to draw upon ancient wisdom to restore connections and awaken the natural cycle of learning within. Gain the skills necessary for the field, be mentored in the ways of connecting with the earth, and join an amazing team, here in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. There will be an opportunity for a community involved setting, where all participants can learn and live together cooperatively on the land. Plus create and tend their own garden plot and be involved with the creation of a permaculture camp center.
Please contact us to find out more or to get an application.
Kate and Hub Knott
The Living Earth School
101 Rocky Bottom lane
Afton, VA 22920
(540) 456-7339
www.LivingEarthVa.com
connect@livingearthva.com
9.
UPCOMING EVENTS
JRGBC Green Lunch: LEEDv3L: What's New for You?
Tuesday, January 19 at noon
Join the James River Green Building Council for the kick off to their 2010 Green Lunch series at CCDC. The series kicks off with a presentation by Sandra Leibowitz Earley, principal of Sustainable Design Consulting in Richmond, Virginia. The U.S. Green Building Council released its new version of LEED ® in April of 2009, titled “v3.” This comprehensive program consists of three components: LEED 2009 rating systems, the LEED certification model, and LEED-Online v3. The session will demystify the changes that have occurred, providing insight into credit alignment, regional credits, and credit weightings. Lunch will be provided free of charge; however, advance registration is required: http://www.jrgbc.org/
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Executive Director, Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP)
LEAP is a new community-based (Charlottesville and Albemarle County, VA) nonprofit whose mission is to help facilitate unprecedented utility (energy and water) savings by retrofitting buildings and installing renewable technologies in residential and commercial buildings. Based on an alliance and membership model, LEAP will work directly with property owners as well as stakeholders in government, business, and other nonprofits to help create a sustainable energy future for our community. Visit the SEEA website:
10.
Free online course in Sustainability that is being offered by BTH (Blekinge Technical Institute) in Sweden. This course is an introduction to the Sustainability Principles and the Framework for Sustainable Development used by The Natural Step and developed by Karl-Henrik Robert and others. There is no charge except for the textbook.
For more information www.bth.se/sustainability
Begin the online application at:
www.bth.se/specialized/apply
11.
GREAT PERMACULTURE VIDEO:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6973622026508602196&hl=en#
A Permaculture Perspective: Living in Authenticity During Energ...
Sep 13, 2008 - 26:26
Bill Wilson, Midwest Permaculture Institute, Stelle, Illinois. Presented at "A Renaissance of Local", Lyons, Colorado, September 2007. The 2007 Renaissance of Local was a county-wide community festival, conference and expo celebrating local food, local energy, local economy, local culture, and local community. It was an energizing focus for Boulder County Going Local! in their campaign to build community self-sufficiency and to strengthen the local economy through partnership, collaboration, and engagement.
And another great video:
http://www.thegreenhorns.net/home.html
12.
tricycle gardens (in Richmond) presents:
A WORLD CHANGING
LECTURE & DISCUSSION SERIES ON THE COMING ECOLOGICAL AGE
Please join us for 10 evenings of stimulating and challenging discussions on topics related to the ecological age. Each session will be led by a guest lecturer with expertise in the topic of discussion for the evening. Participants will be provided readings and links to websites and videos to study a week in advance of each meeting. The goal of this seminar is to increase our knowledge and capacity to act as ecologically informed individuals and members of a network of concerned citizens.
Cost: $200, includes course materials and closing dinner. Scholarships available (please inquire).
Dates: Alternate Wednesdays,
January 27th thru June 2nd, 7-9pm
Location: Tricycle Gardens Headquarters
Limited to 25 participants.
Call to attend a single session. $25 (Space Available)
TRICYCLE GARDENS, 211 West 7th Street, Richmond VA, 23224, ph 804.231-7767, learn@tricyclegardens.org
Space is limited.
Via email or snail mail, please describe your reasons for taking this seminar. How is this seminar related to your work and/or participation in sustainable projects? How do you plan to put into practice what you learn from this seminar? Describe the knowledge, expertise, and experience you bring to the seminar.
WINTER/SPRING 2010 COURSE INFORMATION
New Tools for Understanding the World:
Urban Ecology and Eco-Literacy
January 27th : Tara DePorte, Program Director, Lower East Side Ecology Center, NYC : Constructing a sustainable way of life depends on the development of new knowledge and skills. What knowledge and systems of knowledge production and distribution are necessary to enable citizens to construct a sustainable way of local and global life? What does it mean to think and act ecologically?
Feeding Ourselves: Food and Food Access
February 10th : Michael Van Ness, Executive Director, Lynchburg Grows :The human population stands at nearly 6.8 billion persons, and is expected to reach 9 billion by 2040. As of 2008, for the first time in history, more than 50% of human beings lived in cities or towns, and this percentage is expected to increase steadily in the coming decades. How do we design and build food systems that are capable of providing food to an increasingly urbanized population?
The Ecology of Health & Nutrition
February 24th : Sally Norton, Scientific / Program Administrator
Department of Social and Behavioral Health; School of Medicine; Virginia Commonwealth University : Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and stroke are among the leading causes of disability and death in the United States and increasingly around the world. They are also closely linked to diet and lifestyle. How might local agriculture help provide food that promotes individual and societal health and wellness? How can local agriculture promote health and wellness in Richmond communities?
Creating an Ecological Culture
March 10th : Rev. Jeanne Pupke, The First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond : Many contemporary cultural/social philosophers and critics contend that our environmental and economic crises are interrelated and deeply shaped by our world view, including our definitions of “progress,” “freedom,” “development,” and the “good life.” How might we define these concepts in a way that contributes to building a sustainable relationship to nature and how might religion, philosophy, art, and science contribute to the formation of an ecological world view?
Local Agriculture, Traditional Skills & the Green Economy
March 24th : Leni A. Sorensen, Ph.D., African-American Research Historian, Monticello : Local agriculture is the fastest growing sector of the food economy and is creatively reshaping our relationship to the earth, to our communities, and to ourselves. How is the development of local agriculture related to constructing an economy that makes it possible for individuals and communities to prosper and for society to establish a solid foundation for sustainable growth?
Building Permaculture
April 7th : Lisa Taranto, Executive Director, Tricycle Gardens
Permaculture involves the development of agricultural systems that mimic the diversity, stability, and resilience of ecosystems. How can we promote the development of permaculture in Richmond and other urban centers and how can we utilize the principles of permaculture to design other systems on which we depend, including education, transportation, recreation, politics, and economics?
Re-Imagining Cities: Systems Thinking & Small Economies
April 21st : Timothy Beatley, PhD, Teresa Heinz Professor of
Sustainable Communities, School of Architecture, University of Virginia :
How can these systems thinking and small economies help inform urban planning in Richmond? How can mixed zoning and policies to promote sustainable public transportation, energy, and food systems, and the integration of work, home, and recreation help us build a sustainable city?
Climate and Cultural Change
May 5th : Richard Taranto, Ret. CDR, USN, Oceanography & Meteorology :
The international scientific community indicates that global warming, oceanic and other climatic changes are significantly altering rainfall patterns, growing seasons, and agricultural zones. How can we adjust productively to these changes and also grow and distribute food in a way that contributes to long-term environmental stability.
Ecological Policies for an Ecological Age
May 19th : Guest: TBA
Government policies play an important role in fostering technological innovation and economic growth. How can local, state, and federal policies help encourage sustainable development? How can trade agreements, farm legislation, and transportation policies support green business practices? How do we create a business model that rests firmly on ecological principles, including concern for long-term growth and sustainability?
Ushering in the Ecological Age
June 2nd : No Guest, pure discussion
International scientific organizations indicate the earth’s ecosystems are in serious and potentially irrecoverable change. How do we preserve these systems to ensure our health as a species and the health of the larger biotic community? How can we develop in a way that replenishes these systems and deepens our capacity to act as wise stewards of the earth’s interrelated ecosystems? (Includes dinner.)
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion – lots of exciting happenings coming up including a potluck and community talk with Dave Jacke on Feb. 13 in Harrisonburg!
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
Starts this weekend! There may be a few spaces left. Email to inquire.
The spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, $995-$1200. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com.
2.
PERMACULTURE COMMUNITY PRESENTATION and POTLUCK in Harrisonburg, VA
Come One, Come All!
With special guest Dave Jacke, for a talk on “Ecosystem Agriculture and Forest Gardens”
Sat. Feb. 13th, 2010
Potluck 6:30 -7:30 (bring a dish and utensils)
Talk from 7:30 – 9:00 pm
Location: Martin Chapel, located in the Seminary building at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA
Click on the Map link from the website:
http://www.emu.edu/map/sem.html
For additional information, see the website:
www.blueridgepermaculture.net
RSVP and Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required, by emailing Terry Lilley at:
tygerlilley@gmail.com
3.
SAVE THE DATE!
Will Allen workshops return to Lynchburg Grows
March 5-6, 2010 (Fri. & Sat.)
Lynchburg Grows is welcoming back urban-farm guru Will Allen for two days of
workshops, March 5-6, 2010 (Fri. & Sat.). Allen, a 2008 MacArthur
fellowship recipient and co-founder of Milwaukee-based Growing Power, Inc. (www.GrowingPower.org), taught hands-on
workshops at Lynchburg Grows in the Spring of 2009 that focused on worm
farming, aquaponics (using fish to grow plants), growing and selling
chemical-free produce and building local food systems.
Lynchburg Grows is a Regional Outreach Training Center for Growing Power.
Contact Michael G. Van Ness, Executive Director, Lynchburg Grows at
michaelv@lynchburggrows.org for more workshop information.
Office: 1339 Englewood St., Lynchburg, VA 24501
Directions: Englewood is off Fort Ave., one street south of Lynchburg City
Stadium.
Drive to the end of the road; the office is located in the concrete building
to the right.
Phone: (434) 846-5665 Web Site:
www.LynchburgGrows.org
"Changing lives one garden at a time."
4.
Central Virginia Community College (in Lynchburg) continuing education class
“Choices for Sustainable Living” which runs two Tuesday evenings: Feb 2 & 9 from 7 to 9pm.
The purpose of the class is for each participant to come away with a deeper understanding of our environmental situation and realize the impact of everyday choices. Reducing energy and resource consumption will play center stage as we tackle issues in our homes, shopping carts, cars, gardens and communities. Active participation is essential! By course end, everyone will have a plan and tools to live lighter and be an active force in the shift toward sustainable living. This course will go way beyond just changing your light bulbs.
What’s the catch? CVCC charges a small fee for course ($79). But you should be able to make that up with all the money and energy saving you’ll be doing after the course. We are aiming for 90% reductions in most areas.
For more information, the link for the course flyer is:
http://www.cv.cc.va.us/Continuing%20Education/Flyers/sustainable%20living.pdf
and the CVCC Continuing Education page:
http://www.cv.cc.va.us/Continuing%20Education/default.asp
or contact the instructor, Vicky Peterson, at
5.
Please spread the word about the debut of “Exploring the Small Farm Dream” course in Charlottesville in February 2010. More information available at:
http://www.pecva.org/anx/index.cfm/1,266,2727,0,html/Feb-1-8-15-22-amp-Mar-6-Exploring-the-Small-Farm-Dream.
Who should attend?
Career changers and farm newbies breaking into agricultural pursuits
Farm apprentices interested in launching their own careers
Current farmers expanding into a new enterprise
Anyone considering starting a farm business on their property
Learn from guest speakers:
Richard Bean of Double H Farm
Ramona and Collins Huff of Gryffon’s Aerie
Gail Hobbs-Page of Caromont Farm
Lee O’Neill of Radical Roots Community Farm
Chuck and Charlotte Shelton of Albemarle Ciderworks
Tom and Anita Weber of Heaven and Earth Acres
Exploring the Small Farm Dream
Feb. 1, 8, 15 & 22 (optional field trip March 6th to Local Food Hub Educational Farm )
At Piedmont Virginia Community College (Charlottesville)
Register by visiting www.pvcc.edu (Search Spring 2010, Noncredit, Agriculture & Natural Resources – Exploring the Small Farm Dream)
or call 434-961-5354 – Workforce Services at Piedmont Virginia Community College.
Cost: $149 for 4 sessions, field trip and workbook
Stacey Carlberg
Fellowship Coordinator
Piedmont Environmental Council
540-341-0175 ext.1
6.
The Art of Wild Fermentation
One-Day Class: Saturday, January 16
10am – 2:30pm
Learn to make delicious lacto-fermented foods in this hands-on workshop. Fermentation is a traditional way of food preparation that not only preserves the harvest but also yields greater nourishment, a healthier digestive system, and thus increased vitality. We will make kimchi, brined garlic, lacto-fermented beets and ginger carrots, all of which can be easily incorporated into meals. We will also make some fermented and cultured beverages including kombucha, honey wine and sodas that are actually good for you. There will be a wide array of samples and you will leave with the skills necessary to begin lacto-fermenting foods at home.
This class will be taught by community herbalist, Suzanna Stone
Herbal teas will be provided at all the one day workshops. Please pack a bag lunch.
Fee for the class is $75.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
Sacred Plant Traditions
Weekend Foundations Class in 2010 (almost full) in herbal medicine.
These programs are for those wishing to help their friends and families maintain health, deepen their plant knowledge or begin the training as a community herbalist. The curriculum is dynamic, contemplative and provides a sense of community as we move through the seasons learning each step of the process.
We begin with learning how to listen to the landscape before we even make a change in the garden. We learn Stephen Buhner’s Deep Diagnostic work as well as other techniques for working directly with the land. We then move to permaculture & biodynamic practices to see that medicine is borne of the soil and the environment. Herbalists are synonymous with eco activists as we tend and steward all places to protect the medicines. We will learn the nature of nature – ours as well as our gardens, fields and meadows. In June we will take a field trip to Southern Virginia Herbals, home and herb farm of Robbie Wooding. We will see woods grown goldenseal, ginseng and other woodland medicinals and experience the challenges, possibilities and enchantment of living the tradition of the land.
We will study the organ systems and their anatomy, physiology and basic functioning. We will focus on Western definitions of body systems with a major focus being constitutional language of Eclectics and contemporary teachers such as Michael Moore, Matthew Wood and others. We will follow the seasons learning the language of Traditional Chinese Medicine as it relates to the changes that are affected by moving through the wheel of the year.
Please see website for more info. Interviews are required.
www.sacredplanttraditions.com
7.
Online Seminars:
Urban Beekeeping: Dos and Don'ts - Ins and Outs
If you live in an urban area and are keeping bees or have thought about keeping bees than you won't want to miss this. We will have a conversation with 3 urban beekeepers with very different backgrounds and approaches. Cindy Bee, a beekeeper in the Atlanta, GA area, Toni Burnham in Washington, DC, and Cameo Wood in San Francisco. Registration is free but space is limited.
Title: Urban Beekeeping: Dos and Don'ts - Ins and Outs
Date: Sunday, January 24. 2010
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now at: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/153470658
8.
LIVING EARTH School Spring INTERNSHIP: We offer a spring internship beginning
in mid March- May, 2010. It is an instructor training program based in nature mentoring, primitive living skills, natural history, plus permaculture and gardening opportunities. Our unique Earth Based Mentoring model, allows participants to draw upon ancient wisdom to restore connections and awaken the natural cycle of learning within. Gain the skills necessary for the field, be mentored in the ways of connecting with the earth, and join an amazing team, here in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. There will be an opportunity for a community involved setting, where all participants can learn and live together cooperatively on the land. Plus create and tend their own garden plot and be involved with the creation of a permaculture camp center.
Please contact us to find out more or to get an application.
Kate and Hub Knott
The Living Earth School
101 Rocky Bottom lane
Afton, VA 22920
(540) 456-7339
www.LivingEarthVa.com
connect@livingearthva.com
9.
UPCOMING EVENTS
JRGBC Green Lunch: LEEDv3L: What's New for You?
Tuesday, January 19 at noon
Join the James River Green Building Council for the kick off to their 2010 Green Lunch series at CCDC. The series kicks off with a presentation by Sandra Leibowitz Earley, principal of Sustainable Design Consulting in Richmond, Virginia. The U.S. Green Building Council released its new version of LEED ® in April of 2009, titled “v3.” This comprehensive program consists of three components: LEED 2009 rating systems, the LEED certification model, and LEED-Online v3. The session will demystify the changes that have occurred, providing insight into credit alignment, regional credits, and credit weightings. Lunch will be provided free of charge; however, advance registration is required: http://www.jrgbc.org/
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Executive Director, Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP)
LEAP is a new community-based (Charlottesville and Albemarle County, VA) nonprofit whose mission is to help facilitate unprecedented utility (energy and water) savings by retrofitting buildings and installing renewable technologies in residential and commercial buildings. Based on an alliance and membership model, LEAP will work directly with property owners as well as stakeholders in government, business, and other nonprofits to help create a sustainable energy future for our community. Visit the SEEA website:
10.
Free online course in Sustainability that is being offered by BTH (Blekinge Technical Institute) in Sweden. This course is an introduction to the Sustainability Principles and the Framework for Sustainable Development used by The Natural Step and developed by Karl-Henrik Robert and others. There is no charge except for the textbook.
For more information www.bth.se/sustainability
Begin the online application at:
www.bth.se/specialized/apply
11.
GREAT PERMACULTURE VIDEO:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6973622026508602196&hl=en#
A Permaculture Perspective: Living in Authenticity During Energ...
Sep 13, 2008 - 26:26
Bill Wilson, Midwest Permaculture Institute, Stelle, Illinois. Presented at "A Renaissance of Local", Lyons, Colorado, September 2007. The 2007 Renaissance of Local was a county-wide community festival, conference and expo celebrating local food, local energy, local economy, local culture, and local community. It was an energizing focus for Boulder County Going Local! in their campaign to build community self-sufficiency and to strengthen the local economy through partnership, collaboration, and engagement.
And another great video:
http://www.thegreenhorns.net/home.html
12.
tricycle gardens (in Richmond) presents:
A WORLD CHANGING
LECTURE & DISCUSSION SERIES ON THE COMING ECOLOGICAL AGE
Please join us for 10 evenings of stimulating and challenging discussions on topics related to the ecological age. Each session will be led by a guest lecturer with expertise in the topic of discussion for the evening. Participants will be provided readings and links to websites and videos to study a week in advance of each meeting. The goal of this seminar is to increase our knowledge and capacity to act as ecologically informed individuals and members of a network of concerned citizens.
Cost: $200, includes course materials and closing dinner. Scholarships available (please inquire).
Dates: Alternate Wednesdays,
January 27th thru June 2nd, 7-9pm
Location: Tricycle Gardens Headquarters
Limited to 25 participants.
Call to attend a single session. $25 (Space Available)
TRICYCLE GARDENS, 211 West 7th Street, Richmond VA, 23224, ph 804.231-7767, learn@tricyclegardens.org
Space is limited.
Via email or snail mail, please describe your reasons for taking this seminar. How is this seminar related to your work and/or participation in sustainable projects? How do you plan to put into practice what you learn from this seminar? Describe the knowledge, expertise, and experience you bring to the seminar.
WINTER/SPRING 2010 COURSE INFORMATION
New Tools for Understanding the World:
Urban Ecology and Eco-Literacy
January 27th : Tara DePorte, Program Director, Lower East Side Ecology Center, NYC : Constructing a sustainable way of life depends on the development of new knowledge and skills. What knowledge and systems of knowledge production and distribution are necessary to enable citizens to construct a sustainable way of local and global life? What does it mean to think and act ecologically?
Feeding Ourselves: Food and Food Access
February 10th : Michael Van Ness, Executive Director, Lynchburg Grows :The human population stands at nearly 6.8 billion persons, and is expected to reach 9 billion by 2040. As of 2008, for the first time in history, more than 50% of human beings lived in cities or towns, and this percentage is expected to increase steadily in the coming decades. How do we design and build food systems that are capable of providing food to an increasingly urbanized population?
The Ecology of Health & Nutrition
February 24th : Sally Norton, Scientific / Program Administrator
Department of Social and Behavioral Health; School of Medicine; Virginia Commonwealth University : Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and stroke are among the leading causes of disability and death in the United States and increasingly around the world. They are also closely linked to diet and lifestyle. How might local agriculture help provide food that promotes individual and societal health and wellness? How can local agriculture promote health and wellness in Richmond communities?
Creating an Ecological Culture
March 10th : Rev. Jeanne Pupke, The First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond : Many contemporary cultural/social philosophers and critics contend that our environmental and economic crises are interrelated and deeply shaped by our world view, including our definitions of “progress,” “freedom,” “development,” and the “good life.” How might we define these concepts in a way that contributes to building a sustainable relationship to nature and how might religion, philosophy, art, and science contribute to the formation of an ecological world view?
Local Agriculture, Traditional Skills & the Green Economy
March 24th : Leni A. Sorensen, Ph.D., African-American Research Historian, Monticello : Local agriculture is the fastest growing sector of the food economy and is creatively reshaping our relationship to the earth, to our communities, and to ourselves. How is the development of local agriculture related to constructing an economy that makes it possible for individuals and communities to prosper and for society to establish a solid foundation for sustainable growth?
Building Permaculture
April 7th : Lisa Taranto, Executive Director, Tricycle Gardens
Permaculture involves the development of agricultural systems that mimic the diversity, stability, and resilience of ecosystems. How can we promote the development of permaculture in Richmond and other urban centers and how can we utilize the principles of permaculture to design other systems on which we depend, including education, transportation, recreation, politics, and economics?
Re-Imagining Cities: Systems Thinking & Small Economies
April 21st : Timothy Beatley, PhD, Teresa Heinz Professor of
Sustainable Communities, School of Architecture, University of Virginia :
How can these systems thinking and small economies help inform urban planning in Richmond? How can mixed zoning and policies to promote sustainable public transportation, energy, and food systems, and the integration of work, home, and recreation help us build a sustainable city?
Climate and Cultural Change
May 5th : Richard Taranto, Ret. CDR, USN, Oceanography & Meteorology :
The international scientific community indicates that global warming, oceanic and other climatic changes are significantly altering rainfall patterns, growing seasons, and agricultural zones. How can we adjust productively to these changes and also grow and distribute food in a way that contributes to long-term environmental stability.
Ecological Policies for an Ecological Age
May 19th : Guest: TBA
Government policies play an important role in fostering technological innovation and economic growth. How can local, state, and federal policies help encourage sustainable development? How can trade agreements, farm legislation, and transportation policies support green business practices? How do we create a business model that rests firmly on ecological principles, including concern for long-term growth and sustainability?
Ushering in the Ecological Age
June 2nd : No Guest, pure discussion
International scientific organizations indicate the earth’s ecosystems are in serious and potentially irrecoverable change. How do we preserve these systems to ensure our health as a species and the health of the larger biotic community? How can we develop in a way that replenishes these systems and deepens our capacity to act as wise stewards of the earth’s interrelated ecosystems? (Includes dinner.)
Monday, December 7, 2009
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion (including a permaculture movie tomorrow night in Harrisonburg – we hope to see all of you there!) and our upcoming spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2010, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
2.
Blue Ridge Permaculture Network Presents
Introduction to Permaculture
Movie and Discussion (Free!)
Tuesday December 8th at 7pm
Clementine Cafe, Harrisonburg
www.clementinecafe.com
Based on the 72-hour Permaculture Design Certificate Course as devised by Bill Mollison, join Geoff Lawton as he takes you into the world of Permaculture Design and introduces you to a new way of looking at the world. Learn how to apply your design skills by observing, analyzing and harmonizing with the patterns of Nature. Discover the theory and then see the examples in action in this unique DVD. Essential information for anyone interested in learning more about Permaculture and how they can apply it in their daily lives to create sustainable abundance.
3.
The students in "Technology, Nature, and Sustainable Agriculture: Bringing Engineers into the Foodshed,” a course at UVA taught in Spring 2009 and Fall 2009 semesters, has produced a new website: http://www.sts.virginia.edu/foodshed/. The site is intended as a start to a repository and dynamic forum for sustainable foodshed design in the region. It hosts a series of video podcasts on local food issues, a bibliography, links to on-line sources, and references to activity at UVA on the topic. Students in the class this semester will be adding to, updating, and continuing to refine the formatting of the current website. The current class members and instructor encourage any feedback from community members about things to include and suggestions to rebuild the site for the sake of local relevance. Please contact Benjamin Cohen (bcohen@virginia.edu) with any thoughts.
4
. Please note a new book published on the cultural origins of scientific agriculture in America, /Notes from the Ground: Science, Soil and Society in the American Countryside/, from Yale University Press. Readers can find notice of it here:
http://www.amazon.com/Notes-Ground-American-Countryside-Agrarian/dp/0300139233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256580268&sr=8-1
The book’s story begins with Jefferson and ends in the mid-nineteenth century. Though temporally distant from current permaculture activity, much of the book takes Virginia (and central Virginia and the Albemarle County area) as its focus. Readers might find it interesting to learn about the means by which local farmers developed their own systematic soil management practices to pave the way for what later became scientific and industrial agriculture. The book also discusses moral and cultural elements of land use that are relevant for today's thinking on alternative agricultural opportunities such as permaculture.
5.
COAL COUNTRY SHOWING LISTING
The Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition is proud to present the Charlottesville premiere of the new award-winning documentary:
Coal Country
A dramatic look at the controversial practice of mountaintop removal in Appalachia.
December 9th and 10th, 7pm, at the Vinegar Hill Theatre (map)
http://wiseenergyforvirginia.org/coalcountry/
A special benefit reception will be held at Siips Wine Bar on Dec 10th at 5 pm
In addition to the film, please join us for a special benefit reception for the Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition on Dec. 10 at 5 pm, at Siips Wine Bar downtown.
Reception tickets include admittance to the movie, wine & hors d’oeuvres, live music, and special guest Coal Country executive producer Mari-Lynn Evans.
Two coalfield residents featured in the film -Kathy Selvage of Wise County, Va, and Larry Gibson of West Virginia - will speak before each showing and at the reception. Click here to view a map that shows the locations of Siips and the Vinegar Hill Theatre relative to suggested parking.
All benefit proceeds will go to the Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition whose members are the Southern Appalachian Mountain Stewards, Appalachian Voices, the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club and the Southern Environmental Law Center. The Coalition and its many partners are working to stop mountaintop removal coal mining and to secure a clean energy future for Virginia.
6.
Dear Permaculture Friends,
I have two friends, Skip and Joe, who are very interested in taking the Blue Ridge Permaculture Design Course starting in January. They both came to me after I had facilitated a Permaculture 101 class at Our Community Place, a community center in Harrisonburg that helps a lot of people in many different ways. There eyes had that glow that I think we all get after we have learned something new and relevant and mind shifting! Skip and Joe spend a lot of time at Our Community Place. They are both in tough spots right now and have very little money. I had the opportunity to get to know both of them very well over the summer, working together as a part of Muddy Bike Urban Garden Project, a garden program that uses money made at the farmers market to pay workers who are in need of money, gardening and community. 75% of what they make goes into a housing fund, that helps them save to find a place to live. Skip and Joe are both amazing gardeners who are also interested in permaculture. They are also important community members and have helped OCP with a lot of donated time. I am writing to all of you to ask if we could come together as the BRPN community to raise funds to support them through the course. I think that they will learn so much, and that permaculture design could be a way for them to continue to earn money and make a decent living.
Thank you all so much for your support,
Beth Schermerhorn
Garden Coordinator, New Community Project
BRPI Graduate 2007
7.
December 15, 2009
Building Design and Construction: The LEED Implementation Process. This workshop is intended for professionals who are familiar with the LEED for New Construction or LEED for Core & Shell Rating System, but new to implementing it on projects or looking to brush up on implementation best practices. For more information: www.usgbcncr.org.
8.
JRGBC Luncheon: Wind! A Critical Component of Virginia's Clean Energy Future
Tuesday, December 8, 12 pm at the Charlottesville Community Design Center
Curious about wind energy in Virginia? Overwhelmed by conflicting reports about the Commonwealth’s wind resources? Remy Luerssen, Mapping and Education Specialist for the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium and JMU’s Virginia Wind Energy Collaborative, will provide an introduction to wind energy, highlighting recent developments from backyard turbines to offshore wind. Get the facts and learn what resources are available to individuals, corporations, and municipalities who are involved in wind-related projects. Lunch will be provided. Register
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
City Announces 2010 Neighborhood Leadership Institute
On Febuary 10, the City of Charlottesville kicks off its 3rd annual Pilot Your City Neighborhood Leadership Institute, an opportunity for citizens to equip themselves to actively shape the future of the community. NLI topics include City boards and commissions, the local economy, affordable housing and public safety. The program takes places on Wednesday evenings from 6-9 pm and is free and open to all. To participate, apply
Virginia Center for Architecture Spring Semester Internship: Feb. 2- Apr. 30, 2010
The Virginia Center for Architecture is currently seeking applicants for a special 12-week internship during the spring semester. Responsibilities will include curatorial work, educational programming, and special events. VCA internships provide a unique opportunity to learn about architecture and design, as well as to actively contribute to the creation of exhibitions and educational and public programs. Applicants must have excellent oral and written communication skills, general research and office skills, be detail-oriented, and possess a desire to learn about architecture and/or museums. Academic credit may be available. The unpaid internships are six hours per week. To apply, please send a letter of interest, resume, and letter of recommendation by Friday, January 15, 2010 to Margaret Y. Hancock, Director of Programs, Virginia Center for Architecture, 2501 Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220 at mhancock@virginiaarchitecture.org.
9.
There are several upcoming workshops at Tricycle Gardens in Richmond in 2010 including a Seed Swap & Potluck and Seed Starting & Soil Preparation workshop.
Check them out at the website:
http://tricyclegardens.org/programs/
10.
Join us today -- from wherever you are -- to save Coal River Mountain!
Rally in Charleston or take action from your home!
The AP reports on today's event -- learn about and join the growing movement!
Charleston Gazette features Jeff Biggers Op-Ed.
Coal River residents speak to the camera about why this matters.
Rally in Charleston, WV at the Department of Environmental Protection
We need you to stand with us to save Coal River Mountain.
When: Today, Monday Dec. 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection headquarters
601 57th Street SE, Charleston, WV. *Directions below.
What: Speakers (including Bobby Kennedy, Jr.), a historic rally, music
Why: We need your help to save Coal River Mountain and protect the people of Coal River Valley, a critical step in ending mountaintop removal coal mining and putting the country on a path to a clean energy future.
The WV DEP has signed off on the blasting of Coal River Mountain, and the blasting has started, 200 feet from Massey Energy's Brushy Fork dam and impoundment. This massive lake of toxic coal slurry sits above abandoned underground mines. Blasting could destabilize natural fractures in the rock between the bottom of the impoundment, the roof of the old mines, and weak pillars that support the roof. Each blast increases the potential for a disaster like the one in 2000 at a Massey-operated impoundment in Martin County, KY. The same engineers who worked on the failed Kentucky impoundment worked on the Brushy Fork impoundment.
Each blast also destroys a little more of the wind potential of Coal River Mountain -- but there is still plenty of the mountain left to save. If we fight hard now, we can create a model for meeting energy needs sustainably and creating good local jobs and long-term tax revenue.
In a historic protest to defend a mountain and all it represents, Coal River Valley residents and friends from across America will converge on the DEP to demand that the agency suspend and revoke Massey's permits to blast and destroy Coal River Mountain. We are also calling on the EPA to recognize the DEP as a failed agency and assume responsibility for its water monitoring program.
Please do what you can to make it to Charleston on Dec. 7 -- take a day off work, cash in one of your sick days. Bobby Kennedy, Jr. is scheduled to be one of our speakers on the 7th. We hope to see you there!
*Directions: From I-77 North or South / I-64 East or West: Exit MacCorkle Ave. West, (Exit 95); Left on 57th. St (Approximately 1/3rd mile from exit); Building is on right on 57th St., across from the Elder Beerman store at the Kanawha City Mall.
Anywhere, Today: Solidarity Action
If you can't make it to the action today, please call the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection to help support those rallying in Charleston. The DEP is responsible for inspecting the coal sludge dam nearest to the mine site, and has the power to stop the blasting. Call Randy Huffman, Secretary at DEP, and ask him to intervene at Coal River Mountain. Call him at 304-926-0440.
Sample Script
"Hi, I'm calling to ask the West Virginia DEP to intervene at Coal River Mountain. Coalfield residents are reporting that blasting and mountaintop removal operations have begun there. We need the DEP to act now due to the imminent danger to the local community and to our clean energy future."
Talking Points
- Massey Energy has started mountaintop removal operations there. The blasting is happening near the Brushy Fork sludge impoundment which now holds 8.2 billion gallons of toxic coal waste near the town of Pettus, WV. If it were to fail, it would threaten the lives of 1000 people and be an environmental disaster. The dam is permitted to hold more than 9 billion gallons of sludge.
- Studies have shown that Coal River Mountain's ridges have the highest and most productive wind potential. A wind farm on Coal River Mountain could generate 1.2 % of West Virginia's total energy needs, create hundreds of jobs in the local area and generate a long term tax revenue stream for the state. Everyday that blasting happens, the possibility for the wind farm diminishes.
-----
This action alert is going out to you early Monday morning. Later today, please check the "Take Action" pages at Save Coal River Mountain for more information and to let us know you called.
Fruits of Your Actions
Last month, you along with 65,000 others sent emails to the Obama Administration asking that they intervene to stop the blasting on Coal River Mountain, which is endangering the lives of the people in Coal River Valley and destroying critical clean energy resources. Thanks to you, the EPA has responded. In late November, the EPA sent a letter to Marfork Coal Company, the Massey Energy subsidiary that is blasting on Coal River Mountain. The EPA is taking a tough look at the mining site, using its legal and regulatory authority to intervene in the operation.
But the fight continues. We need your help again, and we need it today. It is critical that the DEP play its part in saving Coal River Mountain. Please call the DEP today to help stop Massey Energy from destroying Coal River Mountain.
It is not too late to save Coal River Mountain. Please help!
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion (including a permaculture movie tomorrow night in Harrisonburg – we hope to see all of you there!) and our upcoming spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2010, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
2.
Blue Ridge Permaculture Network Presents
Introduction to Permaculture
Movie and Discussion (Free!)
Tuesday December 8th at 7pm
Clementine Cafe, Harrisonburg
www.clementinecafe.com
Based on the 72-hour Permaculture Design Certificate Course as devised by Bill Mollison, join Geoff Lawton as he takes you into the world of Permaculture Design and introduces you to a new way of looking at the world. Learn how to apply your design skills by observing, analyzing and harmonizing with the patterns of Nature. Discover the theory and then see the examples in action in this unique DVD. Essential information for anyone interested in learning more about Permaculture and how they can apply it in their daily lives to create sustainable abundance.
3.
The students in "Technology, Nature, and Sustainable Agriculture: Bringing Engineers into the Foodshed,” a course at UVA taught in Spring 2009 and Fall 2009 semesters, has produced a new website: http://www.sts.virginia.edu/foodshed/. The site is intended as a start to a repository and dynamic forum for sustainable foodshed design in the region. It hosts a series of video podcasts on local food issues, a bibliography, links to on-line sources, and references to activity at UVA on the topic. Students in the class this semester will be adding to, updating, and continuing to refine the formatting of the current website. The current class members and instructor encourage any feedback from community members about things to include and suggestions to rebuild the site for the sake of local relevance. Please contact Benjamin Cohen (bcohen@virginia.edu) with any thoughts.
4
. Please note a new book published on the cultural origins of scientific agriculture in America, /Notes from the Ground: Science, Soil and Society in the American Countryside/, from Yale University Press. Readers can find notice of it here:
http://www.amazon.com/Notes-Ground-American-Countryside-Agrarian/dp/0300139233/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256580268&sr=8-1
The book’s story begins with Jefferson and ends in the mid-nineteenth century. Though temporally distant from current permaculture activity, much of the book takes Virginia (and central Virginia and the Albemarle County area) as its focus. Readers might find it interesting to learn about the means by which local farmers developed their own systematic soil management practices to pave the way for what later became scientific and industrial agriculture. The book also discusses moral and cultural elements of land use that are relevant for today's thinking on alternative agricultural opportunities such as permaculture.
5.
COAL COUNTRY SHOWING LISTING
The Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition is proud to present the Charlottesville premiere of the new award-winning documentary:
Coal Country
A dramatic look at the controversial practice of mountaintop removal in Appalachia.
December 9th and 10th, 7pm, at the Vinegar Hill Theatre (map)
http://wiseenergyforvirginia.org/coalcountry/
A special benefit reception will be held at Siips Wine Bar on Dec 10th at 5 pm
In addition to the film, please join us for a special benefit reception for the Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition on Dec. 10 at 5 pm, at Siips Wine Bar downtown.
Reception tickets include admittance to the movie, wine & hors d’oeuvres, live music, and special guest Coal Country executive producer Mari-Lynn Evans.
Two coalfield residents featured in the film -Kathy Selvage of Wise County, Va, and Larry Gibson of West Virginia - will speak before each showing and at the reception. Click here to view a map that shows the locations of Siips and the Vinegar Hill Theatre relative to suggested parking.
All benefit proceeds will go to the Wise Energy for Virginia Coalition whose members are the Southern Appalachian Mountain Stewards, Appalachian Voices, the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club and the Southern Environmental Law Center. The Coalition and its many partners are working to stop mountaintop removal coal mining and to secure a clean energy future for Virginia.
6.
Dear Permaculture Friends,
I have two friends, Skip and Joe, who are very interested in taking the Blue Ridge Permaculture Design Course starting in January. They both came to me after I had facilitated a Permaculture 101 class at Our Community Place, a community center in Harrisonburg that helps a lot of people in many different ways. There eyes had that glow that I think we all get after we have learned something new and relevant and mind shifting! Skip and Joe spend a lot of time at Our Community Place. They are both in tough spots right now and have very little money. I had the opportunity to get to know both of them very well over the summer, working together as a part of Muddy Bike Urban Garden Project, a garden program that uses money made at the farmers market to pay workers who are in need of money, gardening and community. 75% of what they make goes into a housing fund, that helps them save to find a place to live. Skip and Joe are both amazing gardeners who are also interested in permaculture. They are also important community members and have helped OCP with a lot of donated time. I am writing to all of you to ask if we could come together as the BRPN community to raise funds to support them through the course. I think that they will learn so much, and that permaculture design could be a way for them to continue to earn money and make a decent living.
Thank you all so much for your support,
Beth Schermerhorn
Garden Coordinator, New Community Project
BRPI Graduate 2007
7.
December 15, 2009
Building Design and Construction: The LEED Implementation Process. This workshop is intended for professionals who are familiar with the LEED for New Construction or LEED for Core & Shell Rating System, but new to implementing it on projects or looking to brush up on implementation best practices. For more information: www.usgbcncr.org.
8.
JRGBC Luncheon: Wind! A Critical Component of Virginia's Clean Energy Future
Tuesday, December 8, 12 pm at the Charlottesville Community Design Center
Curious about wind energy in Virginia? Overwhelmed by conflicting reports about the Commonwealth’s wind resources? Remy Luerssen, Mapping and Education Specialist for the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium and JMU’s Virginia Wind Energy Collaborative, will provide an introduction to wind energy, highlighting recent developments from backyard turbines to offshore wind. Get the facts and learn what resources are available to individuals, corporations, and municipalities who are involved in wind-related projects. Lunch will be provided. Register
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
City Announces 2010 Neighborhood Leadership Institute
On Febuary 10, the City of Charlottesville kicks off its 3rd annual Pilot Your City Neighborhood Leadership Institute, an opportunity for citizens to equip themselves to actively shape the future of the community. NLI topics include City boards and commissions, the local economy, affordable housing and public safety. The program takes places on Wednesday evenings from 6-9 pm and is free and open to all. To participate, apply
Virginia Center for Architecture Spring Semester Internship: Feb. 2- Apr. 30, 2010
The Virginia Center for Architecture is currently seeking applicants for a special 12-week internship during the spring semester. Responsibilities will include curatorial work, educational programming, and special events. VCA internships provide a unique opportunity to learn about architecture and design, as well as to actively contribute to the creation of exhibitions and educational and public programs. Applicants must have excellent oral and written communication skills, general research and office skills, be detail-oriented, and possess a desire to learn about architecture and/or museums. Academic credit may be available. The unpaid internships are six hours per week. To apply, please send a letter of interest, resume, and letter of recommendation by Friday, January 15, 2010 to Margaret Y. Hancock, Director of Programs, Virginia Center for Architecture, 2501 Monument Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220 at mhancock@virginiaarchitecture.org.
9.
There are several upcoming workshops at Tricycle Gardens in Richmond in 2010 including a Seed Swap & Potluck and Seed Starting & Soil Preparation workshop.
Check them out at the website:
http://tricyclegardens.org/programs/
10.
Join us today -- from wherever you are -- to save Coal River Mountain!
Rally in Charleston or take action from your home!
The AP reports on today's event -- learn about and join the growing movement!
Charleston Gazette features Jeff Biggers Op-Ed.
Coal River residents speak to the camera about why this matters.
Rally in Charleston, WV at the Department of Environmental Protection
We need you to stand with us to save Coal River Mountain.
When: Today, Monday Dec. 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Where: West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection headquarters
601 57th Street SE, Charleston, WV. *Directions below.
What: Speakers (including Bobby Kennedy, Jr.), a historic rally, music
Why: We need your help to save Coal River Mountain and protect the people of Coal River Valley, a critical step in ending mountaintop removal coal mining and putting the country on a path to a clean energy future.
The WV DEP has signed off on the blasting of Coal River Mountain, and the blasting has started, 200 feet from Massey Energy's Brushy Fork dam and impoundment. This massive lake of toxic coal slurry sits above abandoned underground mines. Blasting could destabilize natural fractures in the rock between the bottom of the impoundment, the roof of the old mines, and weak pillars that support the roof. Each blast increases the potential for a disaster like the one in 2000 at a Massey-operated impoundment in Martin County, KY. The same engineers who worked on the failed Kentucky impoundment worked on the Brushy Fork impoundment.
Each blast also destroys a little more of the wind potential of Coal River Mountain -- but there is still plenty of the mountain left to save. If we fight hard now, we can create a model for meeting energy needs sustainably and creating good local jobs and long-term tax revenue.
In a historic protest to defend a mountain and all it represents, Coal River Valley residents and friends from across America will converge on the DEP to demand that the agency suspend and revoke Massey's permits to blast and destroy Coal River Mountain. We are also calling on the EPA to recognize the DEP as a failed agency and assume responsibility for its water monitoring program.
Please do what you can to make it to Charleston on Dec. 7 -- take a day off work, cash in one of your sick days. Bobby Kennedy, Jr. is scheduled to be one of our speakers on the 7th. We hope to see you there!
*Directions: From I-77 North or South / I-64 East or West: Exit MacCorkle Ave. West, (Exit 95); Left on 57th. St (Approximately 1/3rd mile from exit); Building is on right on 57th St., across from the Elder Beerman store at the Kanawha City Mall.
Anywhere, Today: Solidarity Action
If you can't make it to the action today, please call the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection to help support those rallying in Charleston. The DEP is responsible for inspecting the coal sludge dam nearest to the mine site, and has the power to stop the blasting. Call Randy Huffman, Secretary at DEP, and ask him to intervene at Coal River Mountain. Call him at 304-926-0440.
Sample Script
"Hi, I'm calling to ask the West Virginia DEP to intervene at Coal River Mountain. Coalfield residents are reporting that blasting and mountaintop removal operations have begun there. We need the DEP to act now due to the imminent danger to the local community and to our clean energy future."
Talking Points
- Massey Energy has started mountaintop removal operations there. The blasting is happening near the Brushy Fork sludge impoundment which now holds 8.2 billion gallons of toxic coal waste near the town of Pettus, WV. If it were to fail, it would threaten the lives of 1000 people and be an environmental disaster. The dam is permitted to hold more than 9 billion gallons of sludge.
- Studies have shown that Coal River Mountain's ridges have the highest and most productive wind potential. A wind farm on Coal River Mountain could generate 1.2 % of West Virginia's total energy needs, create hundreds of jobs in the local area and generate a long term tax revenue stream for the state. Everyday that blasting happens, the possibility for the wind farm diminishes.
-----
This action alert is going out to you early Monday morning. Later today, please check the "Take Action" pages at Save Coal River Mountain for more information and to let us know you called.
Fruits of Your Actions
Last month, you along with 65,000 others sent emails to the Obama Administration asking that they intervene to stop the blasting on Coal River Mountain, which is endangering the lives of the people in Coal River Valley and destroying critical clean energy resources. Thanks to you, the EPA has responded. In late November, the EPA sent a letter to Marfork Coal Company, the Massey Energy subsidiary that is blasting on Coal River Mountain. The EPA is taking a tough look at the mining site, using its legal and regulatory authority to intervene in the operation.
But the fight continues. We need your help again, and we need it today. It is critical that the DEP play its part in saving Coal River Mountain. Please call the DEP today to help stop Massey Energy from destroying Coal River Mountain.
It is not too late to save Coal River Mountain. Please help!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
upcoming events
Greetings All,
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion (including a permaculture presentation and potluck tomorrow night – we hope to see all of you there!) and our upcoming spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
P3: Permaculture Presentation and Potluck
Planning the Sustainable Vegetable Garden, including Cover Cropping,
with Cindy Conner
Thursday, October 15; 6:00 pm talk; 7:00 pm potluck
Bring utensils and a dish to share
Suggested donation $5
Ivy Creek Natural Area Education Building
1776 Earlysville Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901
A map may be found at this website: http://ivycreekfoundation.org/contact.html
2.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
We are pleased to announce our spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2010, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
3.
Apprentice Teachers for Spring Permaculture Design Course
The Blue Ridge Permaculture Network is seeking applicants for two Apprentice Teacher Positions for the Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course. Compensation for this position includes a tuition waiver, lunches during the course and a $200 stipend. If you have a passion for creating a better world through permaculture education then please email Dave O'Neill at leesturgis@yahoo.com for an application.
4.
Saturday, October 24, 2pm onBeat Juice Party at Juice hosted by Leslie Shay & Augusta Ober 1437 Ortman Rd., AftonI-64, Crozet exit, 250 West, less than 2 miles turn left onto Ortman, 3.1 miles on leftPark on street (parking limited; carpool if possible)All ages welcomePlease join us for a community gathering at our little farm in Afton. We'll supply the beats (music), you bring fruit & veggies for juicing, a potluck contribution, outside seating (chairs, blankets, etc.), hoola hoop (if you have one), and friends. Call Leslie at 434-249-2449 or Augusta at 206-240-5194 for more details.
5.
7th Annual Small Farm Family Conference
Sheraton Richmond West Hotel
November 9-10, 2009
VSU Schedules Small Farm Family Conference
Virginia State University's Small Farm Outreach, Training and Technical Assistance Program has scheduled its seventh annual Small Farm Family Conference on Monday, Nov. 9 through Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the Sheraton Richmond West Hotel located at 6624 West Broad Street, Richmond.
Jane Eckert, proprietor of Eckert AgriMarketing , Inc., and a published author with six books on agri-tourism and agri-marketing to her credit, is one of the conference's keynote speakers. She will talk about agriculture tourism opportunities that can enable farm families to generate more income than could ever be earned growing and selling crops and livestock. She will also discuss agri-tourism marketing strategies with a focus on consumer demand, website design and effective publicity for marketing farms and maximizing profits.
Will Allen, chief executive officer of Growing Power, an organization dedicated to developing Community Food Systems, will deliver a keynote message about "Linking Urban and Rural Communities." Other conference sessions include:a) Business and market planning essentials for the small farmer.b) Urban forestry.c) Preserving the farm for future generations.d) Educating kids about agriculture.e) Small farm liability and legal issues associated with marketing directly to the public.f) Selling to restaurants.g) Workplace farmers markets and community supported agriculture; andh) Urban farming for profit. Special program features include a USDA panel session on fundingopportunities and incentives for small, limited resource andsocially-disadvantaged farmers; livestock, aquaculture and horticulturetours; and a children's program.(more)
A registration fee of $25 per person (adult or child) covers conference materials, dinner on Monday, and lunch on Tuesday.
To register, call Carol Streetman, VSU administrative specialist, at (804)524-5960 or e-mail cstreetman@vsu.edu.
For more information on the conference, call Fidelis Okpebholo, coordinator of VSU's Small Farm Outreach, Training and Technical Assistance Program, at (804) 524-5662 or e-mail fokpebholo@vsu.edu. Anyone needing special services or accommodations in order to participate should call by Nov. 2 to discuss arrangements.
6.
~October Workshops and Events at Common Good City Farm ~
October 17th. Growing Gardens Workshop: Uncommon Uses for Common Herbs
Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme -- you grow them in your garden and use them to flavor your cooking, but how else can they benefit you? Learn medicinal uses for the herbs in your spice rack, including fennel, mint, oregano, chamomile, and catnip by making teas and brews in this hands-on workshop. Bring a mug! Click for more info and to Register
October 23-25. Introduction to Urban and Community Food Gardens
Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your soil and site for a Spring garden...Spend a weekend learning the basics of urban gardening, garden design and starting a community garden. Learn how to winterize an existing garden and prepare an area now for a new garden in the Spring. Discussion on basic theories of how to design with nature will be mixed with hands-on activities. (Course is similar to an Introduction to Permaculture class). Click for more information and to register.
October 31st. Halloween Haunt at the Farm, a Community Event
Bring the whole family and join your LeDroit Park, Shaw, Eckington, Bloomingdale and Howard neighbors for some Halloween fun! Enjoy pumpkin picking in the Common Good City Farm pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, cider tasting, apple treats and of course, a costume contest. This event is free. 11am-1pm at Common Good City Farm. (Please consider donating to help make this event a success.)
You can un-subscribe by clicking here. To never receive email from the Common Good City Farm click here 2025 3rd Street NW Washington, DC , DC 20001 United States
http://commongoodcityfarm.org/
7."A New Energy Future: Conservation, Efficiency,and Renewables" Physics Building at the University of Virginia Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Keynote Address and workshops on energy efficiency, wind energy,biomass. sustainable food production, alternatives to coal and nuclearenergy production and more. $10(includes lunch). Preregistration is encouraged. "REAL DISCUSSION, REAL CHOICES, REAL ANSWERS" Sponsored by:Sierra Club-Piedmont Group People's Alliance for Clean EnergyCharlottesville Center for Peace and JusticeAppalachian Voices For more information call 434-296-2494 or email elena.day@gmail.com
8.
From the Charlottesville Community Design Center
Designing & Building Healthy Places: From Evidence to PracticeFriday, October 16 from 12-1 pm at CCDCJoin us for the first of CCDC + Central Virginia AIA's monthly brown bag lunch & learn series to take place on the third Friday of every month at CCDC beginning in October. This month, CCDC Board member Matthew Trowbridge MD, MPH will present about the public health implications of the design of the built environment. As a practicing physician, Matt brings a unique perspective to field of design. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in an open discussion of ways to develop capacity among architects and urban planners for evidence-based healthy design and construction. Bring your own lunch.
Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) Focus GroupsThe Local Energy Alliance Program, an outgrowth of CCDC's SPARK! program, is planning a series of citizen focus groups to seek opinions and feedback on proposed energy efficiency programs being designed for city & county residents. Your involvement in a focus group will help make sure that the programs LEAP is planning will provide maximum benefit to the Charlottesville-Albemarle community while working toward ambitious energy efficiency and climate protection goals. Groups of 10-12 will meet with LEAP for about one hour either mid-day or in the evenings. Participants will receive a raffle entry for a free Energy Audit Review performed by a certified BPI Building Analyst and a coupon from the Blue Ridge Eco Shop. To receive additional information about participating in a focus group, please fill out a LEAP questionnaire.
Enterprise Announces Green Communities GrantsEnterprise is delighted to announce the Fall 2009 Green Communities Grant application round. Grant awards of up to $75,000 per project will be available to support the planning and construction of green affordable housing. Enterprise invites affordable housing developers to submit a Letter Of Inquiry (LOI) to greencommunities@enterprisecommunity.org by Friday, October 23. Approximately 30 applicants will be selected from the LOI and invited to complete a full online application for funding. Final grant awards will be announced in December 2009. Further details about the grant round as well as instructions on how to submit a Letter of Inquiry are available here.
www.cvilledesign.org
9.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
10.
Gaia University Orientation & Degree Programs
Integrative EcoSocial Design / Organizing Learning for EcoSocial Regeneration / Open Topic
Hosted by the Sustainable Farm Institute, U.S. Virgin Islands
Dec 1 - 13, 2009
For more information visit www.gaiauniversity.org
What is Gaia University?
Gaia University is a growing institution for higher learning with a unique approach. Our students ('associates') are able to earn accredited Bachelors & Masters degrees and Graduate Diplomas while actively engaged in self and planetary transformation and ecosocial regeneration.
How it Works
Gaia U is based on a methodology called Action Learning and is guided by the principles of Earth Care, People Care, & Fair Share. Within that framework, associates work on self-selected, self-directed projects anywhere in the world they choose, documenting their outcomes and learning process along the way. Throughout their program, they are supported by an international network of learning providers, advisors and mentors and a collaborative online e-learning environment.
Cultivating World Changers
By fusing passion and vision with self-directed practical experience, associates initiate and nurture local and global sustainability, regeneration, justice and peace. At the same time, they refine their skills and deepen their experience to become more effective world changers.
Degree Programs
Integrative EcoSocial Design (IESD) BSc, MSc, GD*
For those wanting to integrate ecological and social aspects of design into projects that focus on ecosystems, societies, communities, technologies, and personal lifestyles.
Organizing Learning for EcoSocial Regeneration (OLE) MSc, GD
For those interested in applied organizational learning and design. Some people focus on the development of a GU regional center as their primary project.
Open Topic (OT) BSc, MSc, GD
For those who are working at a strategic level as world changers and want to design their own program topic.
*GD Post Masters Graduate Diploma
More Information
To apply for and register in these programs, please visit: www.gaiauniversity.org
e-mail: info@gaiauniversity.org
Find Gaia University on Facebook
Follow Gaia University on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Gaia_University
Visit Gaia University on the Transition Towns Network - http://transitionus.ning.com/group/gaiauniversity
Below you will find info on upcoming permaculture and sustainability events in the near future in the central Virginia bioregion (including a permaculture presentation and potluck tomorrow night – we hope to see all of you there!) and our upcoming spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course.
For more information about permaculture events, see our website: www.blueridgepermaculture.net. If you know anyone else that would like to sign up for this newsletter, or if you have an announcement, email Christine at christinegyovai@gmail.com for the next update, which are sent monthly.
Best,
Christine and the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network team
1.
P3: Permaculture Presentation and Potluck
Planning the Sustainable Vegetable Garden, including Cover Cropping,
with Cindy Conner
Thursday, October 15; 6:00 pm talk; 7:00 pm potluck
Bring utensils and a dish to share
Suggested donation $5
Ivy Creek Natural Area Education Building
1776 Earlysville Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901
A map may be found at this website: http://ivycreekfoundation.org/contact.html
2.
Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course
We are pleased to announce our spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course: Sustainability Strategies for the Blue Ridge, over four weekends in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
This 72-hour ecological design certificate course, presented by the Blue Ridge Permaculture Network, will be offered over four weekends with leading permaculture teachers including Dave Jacke, Christine Gyovai and Dave O’Neill. The course will be held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on the following dates:
Jan. 15-18, Feb. 12-15, March 13-14, and April 10-11.
The cost for this course will be a sliding scale, including a discount for early registration. If you register by November 15 the sliding scale is $895-$1200. After November 15 the sliding scale is $995-$1200. A few work trade positions are available for partial tuition; inquire soon about work trade guidelines and availability. The work-trade application deadline ends on December 1st, 2010, and limited scholarships may be available, inquire for details. To register please contact Terry Lilley at tygerlilley@gmail.com or 434-296-3963.
3.
Apprentice Teachers for Spring Permaculture Design Course
The Blue Ridge Permaculture Network is seeking applicants for two Apprentice Teacher Positions for the Spring 2010 Permaculture Design Course. Compensation for this position includes a tuition waiver, lunches during the course and a $200 stipend. If you have a passion for creating a better world through permaculture education then please email Dave O'Neill at leesturgis@yahoo.com for an application.
4.
Saturday, October 24, 2pm onBeat Juice Party at Juice hosted by Leslie Shay & Augusta Ober 1437 Ortman Rd., AftonI-64, Crozet exit, 250 West, less than 2 miles turn left onto Ortman, 3.1 miles on leftPark on street (parking limited; carpool if possible)All ages welcomePlease join us for a community gathering at our little farm in Afton. We'll supply the beats (music), you bring fruit & veggies for juicing, a potluck contribution, outside seating (chairs, blankets, etc.), hoola hoop (if you have one), and friends. Call Leslie at 434-249-2449 or Augusta at 206-240-5194 for more details.
5.
7th Annual Small Farm Family Conference
Sheraton Richmond West Hotel
November 9-10, 2009
VSU Schedules Small Farm Family Conference
Virginia State University's Small Farm Outreach, Training and Technical Assistance Program has scheduled its seventh annual Small Farm Family Conference on Monday, Nov. 9 through Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the Sheraton Richmond West Hotel located at 6624 West Broad Street, Richmond.
Jane Eckert, proprietor of Eckert AgriMarketing , Inc., and a published author with six books on agri-tourism and agri-marketing to her credit, is one of the conference's keynote speakers. She will talk about agriculture tourism opportunities that can enable farm families to generate more income than could ever be earned growing and selling crops and livestock. She will also discuss agri-tourism marketing strategies with a focus on consumer demand, website design and effective publicity for marketing farms and maximizing profits.
Will Allen, chief executive officer of Growing Power, an organization dedicated to developing Community Food Systems, will deliver a keynote message about "Linking Urban and Rural Communities." Other conference sessions include:a) Business and market planning essentials for the small farmer.b) Urban forestry.c) Preserving the farm for future generations.d) Educating kids about agriculture.e) Small farm liability and legal issues associated with marketing directly to the public.f) Selling to restaurants.g) Workplace farmers markets and community supported agriculture; andh) Urban farming for profit. Special program features include a USDA panel session on fundingopportunities and incentives for small, limited resource andsocially-disadvantaged farmers; livestock, aquaculture and horticulturetours; and a children's program.(more)
A registration fee of $25 per person (adult or child) covers conference materials, dinner on Monday, and lunch on Tuesday.
To register, call Carol Streetman, VSU administrative specialist, at (804)524-5960 or e-mail cstreetman@vsu.edu.
For more information on the conference, call Fidelis Okpebholo, coordinator of VSU's Small Farm Outreach, Training and Technical Assistance Program, at (804) 524-5662 or e-mail fokpebholo@vsu.edu. Anyone needing special services or accommodations in order to participate should call by Nov. 2 to discuss arrangements.
6.
~October Workshops and Events at Common Good City Farm ~
October 17th. Growing Gardens Workshop: Uncommon Uses for Common Herbs
Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme -- you grow them in your garden and use them to flavor your cooking, but how else can they benefit you? Learn medicinal uses for the herbs in your spice rack, including fennel, mint, oregano, chamomile, and catnip by making teas and brews in this hands-on workshop. Bring a mug! Click for more info and to Register
October 23-25. Introduction to Urban and Community Food Gardens
Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your soil and site for a Spring garden...Spend a weekend learning the basics of urban gardening, garden design and starting a community garden. Learn how to winterize an existing garden and prepare an area now for a new garden in the Spring. Discussion on basic theories of how to design with nature will be mixed with hands-on activities. (Course is similar to an Introduction to Permaculture class). Click for more information and to register.
October 31st. Halloween Haunt at the Farm, a Community Event
Bring the whole family and join your LeDroit Park, Shaw, Eckington, Bloomingdale and Howard neighbors for some Halloween fun! Enjoy pumpkin picking in the Common Good City Farm pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, cider tasting, apple treats and of course, a costume contest. This event is free. 11am-1pm at Common Good City Farm. (Please consider donating to help make this event a success.)
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http://commongoodcityfarm.org/
7."A New Energy Future: Conservation, Efficiency,and Renewables" Physics Building at the University of Virginia Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Keynote Address and workshops on energy efficiency, wind energy,biomass. sustainable food production, alternatives to coal and nuclearenergy production and more. $10(includes lunch). Preregistration is encouraged. "REAL DISCUSSION, REAL CHOICES, REAL ANSWERS" Sponsored by:Sierra Club-Piedmont Group People's Alliance for Clean EnergyCharlottesville Center for Peace and JusticeAppalachian Voices For more information call 434-296-2494 or email elena.day@gmail.com
8.
From the Charlottesville Community Design Center
Designing & Building Healthy Places: From Evidence to PracticeFriday, October 16 from 12-1 pm at CCDCJoin us for the first of CCDC + Central Virginia AIA's monthly brown bag lunch & learn series to take place on the third Friday of every month at CCDC beginning in October. This month, CCDC Board member Matthew Trowbridge MD, MPH will present about the public health implications of the design of the built environment. As a practicing physician, Matt brings a unique perspective to field of design. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in an open discussion of ways to develop capacity among architects and urban planners for evidence-based healthy design and construction. Bring your own lunch.
Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP) Focus GroupsThe Local Energy Alliance Program, an outgrowth of CCDC's SPARK! program, is planning a series of citizen focus groups to seek opinions and feedback on proposed energy efficiency programs being designed for city & county residents. Your involvement in a focus group will help make sure that the programs LEAP is planning will provide maximum benefit to the Charlottesville-Albemarle community while working toward ambitious energy efficiency and climate protection goals. Groups of 10-12 will meet with LEAP for about one hour either mid-day or in the evenings. Participants will receive a raffle entry for a free Energy Audit Review performed by a certified BPI Building Analyst and a coupon from the Blue Ridge Eco Shop. To receive additional information about participating in a focus group, please fill out a LEAP questionnaire.
Enterprise Announces Green Communities GrantsEnterprise is delighted to announce the Fall 2009 Green Communities Grant application round. Grant awards of up to $75,000 per project will be available to support the planning and construction of green affordable housing. Enterprise invites affordable housing developers to submit a Letter Of Inquiry (LOI) to greencommunities@enterprisecommunity.org by Friday, October 23. Approximately 30 applicants will be selected from the LOI and invited to complete a full online application for funding. Final grant awards will be announced in December 2009. Further details about the grant round as well as instructions on how to submit a Letter of Inquiry are available here.
www.cvilledesign.org
9.
Permaculture email listserve (different from this newsletter listserve)
Vicky Peterson, a grad from the first Permaculture Design Course, has set up a yahoo group for discussion of all things relating to permaculture in the Central Virginia region. From Vicky: With your help, the group will be a place to ask questions, share information and help permaculture take root in our area.
Here is a link to follow if you would like to join:
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/BRPermaculture/
There should be a blue button that says "Join this Group!"
If you know of anyone else who might be interested in joining, please feel free to pass this info along.
Other questions? Email me.
Thanks!
Vicky Peterson
vickycp@ntelos.net
10.
Gaia University Orientation & Degree Programs
Integrative EcoSocial Design / Organizing Learning for EcoSocial Regeneration / Open Topic
Hosted by the Sustainable Farm Institute, U.S. Virgin Islands
Dec 1 - 13, 2009
For more information visit www.gaiauniversity.org
What is Gaia University?
Gaia University is a growing institution for higher learning with a unique approach. Our students ('associates') are able to earn accredited Bachelors & Masters degrees and Graduate Diplomas while actively engaged in self and planetary transformation and ecosocial regeneration.
How it Works
Gaia U is based on a methodology called Action Learning and is guided by the principles of Earth Care, People Care, & Fair Share. Within that framework, associates work on self-selected, self-directed projects anywhere in the world they choose, documenting their outcomes and learning process along the way. Throughout their program, they are supported by an international network of learning providers, advisors and mentors and a collaborative online e-learning environment.
Cultivating World Changers
By fusing passion and vision with self-directed practical experience, associates initiate and nurture local and global sustainability, regeneration, justice and peace. At the same time, they refine their skills and deepen their experience to become more effective world changers.
Degree Programs
Integrative EcoSocial Design (IESD) BSc, MSc, GD*
For those wanting to integrate ecological and social aspects of design into projects that focus on ecosystems, societies, communities, technologies, and personal lifestyles.
Organizing Learning for EcoSocial Regeneration (OLE) MSc, GD
For those interested in applied organizational learning and design. Some people focus on the development of a GU regional center as their primary project.
Open Topic (OT) BSc, MSc, GD
For those who are working at a strategic level as world changers and want to design their own program topic.
*GD Post Masters Graduate Diploma
More Information
To apply for and register in these programs, please visit: www.gaiauniversity.org
e-mail: info@gaiauniversity.org
Find Gaia University on Facebook
Follow Gaia University on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Gaia_University
Visit Gaia University on the Transition Towns Network - http://transitionus.ning.com/group/gaiauniversity
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