Green Sanctuary Program
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Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship
Green Sanctuary Program |
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February 23, March 2 & 9, 2009: Sustainable Kitchen Design: Essential Elements Whether you are contemplating remodeling your kitchen or building new, let a prefessional design team teach you how to create a space that is both beautiful, functional, and environmentally sustainable. In this innovative course, we will look at the actual process of cooking and how it applies to kitchen design. You'll also discover local and regional resources for green products and materials that can flesh out your favorite plan. We'll also discuss ergonomics to help bring ease and enjoyment to your time in the kitchen. To demonstrate these essential elements, the course will conclude on March 9th in a residential kitchen with light desserts prepared before your eyes. Domistyle's design team--Jan Hayes, Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer, and Thea Stephens, designer--will share their collective decades of design experience with you. They ask that you bring your questions and be prepared to gain a new awareness of what makes a good kitchen sizzle! Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Whatcom Community College, Laidlaw Ctr 126 Cost: $79.00 Contact: 360.383.3200 March 2, 2009: 'The Great Squeeze: Movie Screening And Discussion' Come and see this important new movie and participate in a discussion of topics presented in the movie afterward. "We are now at a point where humanity's demands for natural resources far exceed the earth's capacity to sustain us. The extraction and the use of those resources in the past two centuries have changed our climate and ecosystems so significantly that a new geological era had to be created. Our current paradigm must change. We will have to accept the new reality; the human economy is part of nature and not the other way around. We are faced with great challenges. But unlike the rest of the living world, we have the unique ability to adapt and decide our fate and the fate of most of the biosphere, for better or worse, in order to survive the human project. The Great Squeeze features: economist Lester Brown, founder of The Earth Policy Institute, Richard Heinberg, world renowned Peak Oil expert, Edward O. Wilson, legendary biologist, Alexandra Cousteau, leading advocate for marine ecosystems, author James Howard Kunstler, paleoclimatologist Jim White and many more." Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Location: Fairhaven College Auditorium Cost: Free Contact: photobike@hotmail.com March 3, 2009: 'Antonia Juhasz: The Tyranny Of Oil' Juhasz pulls back the curtain on Big Oil, uncovering virtually unparalleled global power, influence over elected officials, lax regulatory oversight, and the truth behind $150-a-barrel oil, $4.50-a-gallon gasoline, and the highest profit in corporate history. Juhasz then provides a clear set of achievable solutions, including the break-up of Big Oil. Antonia Juhasz is a leading expert on international trade and finance policy, a frequent media commentator, and author of The Bush Agenda: Invading the World, One Economy at a Time. Time: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM Location: Village Books Cost: Free Contact: nan@villagebooks.com March 3, 2009: Smart Trips Workshop Want to be a Smart Trips employee partner? Join us for an informative workshop and learn how to encourage your employees to make Smart Trips. Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Location: Sustainable Connections Office; 1701 Ellis St #221 Cost: Free Contact: April Claxton april@sconnect.org March 4, 2009: Living Large in Smaller Spaces Are you interested in simplifying your life, thinking about downsizing, or building a new house that you would like to be scaled way down? This two-part class is a celebration of living a rich, contented life in smaller spaces. You will learn how to transition from the cultural obsession on square footage and acquisition to joyful living in less space with fewer objects. You will view many examples of homes that have smaller ecological footprints and how they are designed to be functional, practical, comfortable, and uniquely beautiful. Also learn about architectural and interior design choices that make the most of the space you do have, how to arrange it, how to make rooms multifunctional, and especially how to create them in a way you find deeply satisfying. There will be a simple assignment in the second session which will afford you the opportunity to share with the class some examples of smaller living that you find inspiring. Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Whatcom Community College, Laidlaw Ctr 126 Cost: $59.00 Contact: 360.383.3200 March 4, 2009: Green Drinks Bellingham Green Drinks Bellingham will take place in its quarterly home court; RE Sources’ Sustainable Living Center. Again, we’ll be featuring Boundary Bay beer and delicious appetizers courtesy of Market Street Catering. Remember to bring your own drinking vessel or get harassed by the bartender! Reusable cups will be available for a donation. Green Drinks is an organic networking session that started in London, England and has since caught fire around the world. Like-minded individuals in places from Hong Kong to India, Sweden to South \Africa meet every month to catch-up, network and talk about the latest green issues. According to greendrinks.org, “These events are very simple and unstructured, but many people have found employment, made friends, developed new ideas, done deals and had moments of serendipity.” The best part about Green Drinks is that there is no structure, just good people meeting at a regular place and time. Please note: if you’re arriving before 6:00pm, please park across the street in the old KFC lot (SW corner of Broadway and Girard) as the RE Store parking lot will be devoted to RE Store customers. Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Location: Sustainable Living Center 2309 Meridian St. (above the RE Store) Cost: Free Contact: www.re-sources.org or contact Megan Artz at (360) 733-8307 or MeganA@re-sources.org. March 5, 2009: Climate Responsive Design: Reflections on place-based buildings and communities Cascadia Green Building Council chair Clark Brockman (Director of SERA Architect's Sustainability Resource Team) will be in Bellingham to present on green building and climate responsive design. Please join us for an education evening and networking session. Clark Brockman is the Chair of the Cascadia Region Green Building Council Board of Directors and serves on The Oregon Natural Step's Advisory Board. He has served in a green building advisory capacity to Portland's Office of Sustainable Development and Sustainable Development Commission, City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, the Portland Development Commission, Multnomah County, Clackamas County, the Oregon Business Council, the Governor of Oregon, and Oregon Congressman David Wu's office. Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Location: City Council Chambers - 210 Lottie Street Cost: Free Contact: Sustainable Connections March 6, 2009: 'CALL FOR EARTH DAY PARTICIPANTS!!' The AS Environmental Center is in the planning process for this years Earth Day Celebration. This years theme is-- Rethink, React, Rebuild: inspiring creative environmental change. We are looking for organizations and businesses who would like to be a part of our earth day. We are looking for groups who would like to have a booth, host an activity or lead a workshop on April 25th from noon-6 pm on the Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU. The event will have bands, activities, educational information,etc. Time: 12:00 PM Location: Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU Cost: Free Contact: AS.earth@wwu.edu or call us at 360-650-6129 March 7, 2009: Northwest Wildlife's 5th Annual "Wild Things" Auction Fundraiser Come support Northwest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center by joining us at our 5th Annual “Wild Things Auction!” Enjoy a night of fun, food and music, as well as a live and silent auction, wildlife trivia and more. Time: 6:00p to 10:00p Location: Northwood Hall, 3240 Northwest Ave Cost: $50 per person Contact: To reserve tickets please call Jan Stamey at 360-647-1415. March 7, 2009: Boulevard Park Work Party Lend a hand removing invasive weeds from the headlands section of Boulevard Park located between the two foot bridges. Park in the lower parking lot at Boulevard Park near the entrance: WTA Red Line bus # 401. Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Boulevard Park Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 7, 2009: Lake Padden Work Party Help increase the buffer between the parking lot and the park while increasing wildlife habitat by planting native plant species. Go to the west park entrance off Samish Way and follow the signs to the work site. Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Lake Padden Park Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 7, 2009: Birding the Beaches - Semiahmoo Spit In its third year, “Birding the Beaches” continues as a cooperative effort of NCAS and Whatcom County Parks. Join us for a half-day trip on the first Saturday of each month. We will tour beaches on Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor and view large numbers of seabirds, waterfowl, and shorebirds as well as raptors and songbirds. Semiahmoo is Whatcom County’s only designated Important Bird Area. We all need to know and value this important habitat. Beginning birders are welcome! No registration required. Trip Leader: Paul Woodcock Time: 9:00 am Location: Semiahmoo County Park Cost: Free Contact: Paul Woodcock 380-3356 or e-mail at vp@northcascadesaudubon.org. March 7, 2009: NSEA’s Scott Ditch Work Party Help NSEA kick off our spring work party season by planting native shrubs along Scott Creek and enhancing natural habitat for coho salmon, cutthroat and steelhead trout. Students and staff from Everson Elementary and their families are cordially invited. Parking is available at Everson Elementary at 216 Everson-Goshen Rd. in Everson. Look for signs and check in at the NSEA tent. Tools and gloves are provided. Refreshments are provided by The Bagelry, Starbucks Coffee, the Community Food Co-op, Rocket Donuts, Erin Baker's Wholesome Baked Goods, and Tony's Coffee. Please wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring your enthusiasm, your friends and family, and anyone else that can hold a shovel! Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Location: Parking at Everson Elementary at 216 Everson-Goshen Rd Cost: Free Contact: NSEA at 715-0283 or email volunteers@n-sea.org March 9, 2009: 'Sustainability Discussion Group' A Sustainability Discussion Group hosted by RE-Sources and the Sustainable Living Center. Many of us care about sustainability and have an intuitive sense about what "sustainable" means, but don't have the mental frameworks and tools for thinking deeply and constructively about it. This bi-weekly discussion group will survey the best thinking of the last 40 years and attempt to build a theoretical framework for understanding sustainability. Download the pdf flyer here: http://www.re-sources.org/pdf/sustainability_discussion_group_1.pdf Time: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm Location: Sustainable Living Center, 2309 Meridian St. above the REStore. Cost: Free, but advance registration is required Contact: David Flanagan david@davidflanagan.com March 12, 2009: SALMON SUMMIT 2009: 21st Century Economics: The Value of Our Salmon Session Themes • Salmon Habitat Restoration in the Nooksack BasinTime: 8:30AM - 3:30PM Location: St. Luke’s Community Health Education Center, 3333 Squalicum Parkway Cost: Various Contact: Lindsay Taylor at (360) 715-0283 x 112 March 12, 2009: 'SLC Exhibit Open House' - Mysteries Unraveled: Energy Monsters Found in Your Home Join us for an open house as we support local WWU students, view the displays they've created and discover how to banish the energy-eating monsters in our homes. Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Location: SLC is located above the RE-Store on Meridian Cost: Free Contact: megana@re-sources.org March 12, 19, 26 & April 4, 2009: Organic Home Gardening Learn to work with nature to create and grow your very own "green" (sustainable) and nutritious organic garden. This timely course covers the how-tos of growing delicious organic vegetables, flavorful herbs, and fragrant flowers throughout the different growing seasons. Instructor and organic farmer Gretchen Hoyt will discuss soil health, how to conserve water through mulching and composting methods, starting seeds and transplanting, fertilizing, basic pest control, and harvesting. Three classroom sessions will prepare you for the last class--a fascinating field trip to a local organic farm on Saturday, April 4 (time to be arranged in class). Instructor Gretchen Hoyt of Alm Hill Gardens in Everson has owned and managed a successful organic farm for 35 years. She welcomes all levels of gardening experience--from the novice to the seasoned gardener--all levels will benefit from this dynamic course. Time: 6:30 to 8:30 PM Location: Whatcom Community College, Kelly 105 Cost: $99.00 Contact: 360.383.3200 March 13, 2009: Slow Money Institute The Slow Money Institute is a day-long workshop for investors, funders, food producers, and advocates of local food & agriculture to engage with the topic of "investing as if food, farms and fertility mattered." In a world of ever-accelerating capital markets, a world in which there is no such thing as money that is too fast, a company that is too big, or intermediation that is too complex, we find ourselves asking: • Can investing in local food systems offer an authentic alternative? • If organic farming and small food enterprises are key to the health of the economy, society and the soil, why do they receive so little funding from government, philanthropy or capital markets? • What would the world be like if we invested 50% of our assets within 50 miles of where we live? • Could a million American families get their food from CSAs? Time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Location: Contact for more info Cost: Free Contact: http://www.slowmoneyalliance.org or Shonie Schlotzhauer shonie@sconnect.org March 13, 2009: 'CALL FOR EARTH DAY PARTICIPANTS!!' The AS Environmental Center is in the planning process for this years Earth Day Celebration. This years theme is-- Rethink, React, Rebuild: inspiring creative environmental change. We are looking for organizations and businesses who would like to be a part of our earth day. We are looking for groups who would like to have a booth, host an activity or lead a workshop on April 25th from noon-6 pm on the Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU. The event will have bands, activities, educational information,etc. Time: 12:00 PM Location: Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU Cost: Free Contact: AS.earth@wwu.edu or call us at 360-650-6129 March 14, 2009: Franklin Park Work Party Work with local community members planting native vegetation, mulching and weeding on the Franklin Street Island. The Park is located on the corner of Grant and Whatcom. Park on the street and walk from the north east corner of the park near the playground towards Lakeway Dr. WTA bus # 525 & 540. Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Franklin Park Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 14, 2009: Birding the Beaches - Lake Terrell, Whatcom Wildlife Area A half-day trip co-sponsored by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Hunting season will be over so this will be an excellent opportunity view wintering swans, ducks, coots, grebes, raptors, finches, and sparrows as well as resident song birds. There is a wide variety of excellent habitat within the wildlife area. Beginning birders are welcome! No registration required. Meet at the Lake Terrell parking lot (WDFW parking permit required) at 9 AM. (Those interested in carpooling from another location, call Paul at 380-3356.) Trip Leaders: Paul Woodcock and Jim Edwards of Tennant Lake Interpretive Center. Time: 9:00 am Location: Lake Terrell parking lot (WDFW parking permit required) Cost: Free Contact: Paul Woodcock 380-3356 or e-mail at vp@northcascadesaudubon.org. March 14, 2009: WOODY TASCH, INQUIRIES INTO THE NATURE OF SLOW MONEY Inquires into the Nature of Slow Money: Investing as if Food, Farms, and Fertility Mattered Join us for a timely and important conversation about investing in a sustainable local food system. Slow Money presents the path for bringing money back down to earth-philosophically, strategically, pragmatically, and with an entrepreneurial spirit. It is the path toward a financial system that serves people and place as much at it serves industry sectors and markets. It investigates an essential new strategy for investing in local food systems, and investing that puts soil fertility into return-on-investment calculations. Slow Money is a call to action for designing capital markets built around not extraction and consumption but preservation and restoration. Is it a movement or an investment strategy? Yes. Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Village Books, 1200 11th St, Bellingham Cost: Free Contact: Shonie Schlotzhauer shonie@sconnect.org or http://villagebooks.booksense.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp;jsessionid=bac6P91YMCGBgcT2dSP_r?s=storeevents&eventId=399450 March 14, 2009: 'Skill Share: Natural Dyeing' Learn how to make dye out of natural materials. This Free Skill Share will be held at the Bellingham Alternative Library at 717 N. Forest at 3:00 pm. It is sponsored by the Sushi Tree Collective, Barters without Borders, and the Associated Students. Time: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm Location: Tenant Lake Interpretive Center Cost: Free Contact: jonahkeith@riseup.net March 14, 2009: Spring Gardening: Simply Seeds! Just in time for the spring growing season, learn how to start your favorite flowers, vegetables, and perennials from seed. It's simple, economical, and tremendously fulfilling. We will discuss how and when to start your indoor to outdoor seeds, plus all you need to get started--the right soil, containers, and other supplies. This will be a hands-on class so come prepared to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty (gloves optional). Our expert gardening instructor Debra Olberg will supply containers and soil. All you need to bring is your favorite packets of flower, vegetable or perennial seeds to class. You will leave class with a tray of your favorite seeds just waiting to sprout! A reference list of appropriate seed choices will be provided with class receipt. $6 materials fee is included in course fee. Time: 9:00 am to 11:00 am Location: Whatcom Community College - Cascade 163 Cost: $25 Contact: http://www.whatcomcommunityed.com/schedule/spring09/sustainability.htm March 14, 2009: 'Fruit Tree Grafting Clinic' Fruit tree pruning season is upon us! As you lop off those watersprouts, remember to save scion wood for the Foundation's annual Fruit Tree Grafting Clinic. The Clinic is open to both Master Gardeners andthe public. We hope you will attend and bring your friends and neighbors to this rewarding event. Master Gardeners will earn three hours advanced education for attendance. Our expert and entertaining 'Master Grafters' will review plant physiology, rootstock and fruit varieties. A demonstration will follow of commonly used grafting techniques. Finally, attendees will select their own scion wood and rootstock and we will assist you ingrafting your own tree to take home! Dwarf and mini-dwarf apple, pearand cherry rootstock, and many different scion wood varieties will be available for a nominal fee. There is much interest in Asian pears and heirloom apples, so pleasebring scions from any trees you may have. Scion wood should be cut from a section of last year's vegetative growth, up to 12" or so long and about a pencil-width diameter. Seal the ends with paraffin or tree-seal, or place in a zip lock bag, and refrigerate. The trick is to keep the wood from drying out and keep it dormant until it is grafted. Labeling as to variety is critical. Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 am Location: Tenant Lake Interpretive Center Cost: Contact: Extension office at 676-6736 or Luana Schneider atluasch@msn.com March 14, 2009: NSEA’s Squalicum Creek Work Party Join in the fun of removing invasive species like morning glory and ivy then help us plant new native trees and shrubs along Squalicum Creek. Parking is available at the new Squalicum Creek Park, located at the intersection of Squalicum Parkway and West St. Cross Squalicum Parkway carefully and follow the signs to the NSEA tent. Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Location: Squalicum Creek Park Cost: Free Contact: NSEA at 715-0283 or email volunteers@n-sea.org March 15, 2009: BONNIE HENDERSON, STRAND: AN ODYSSEY OF PACIFIC OCEAN DEBRIS In Strand, travel writer and naturalist Bonnie Henderson offers a thoughtful look at the surprisingly far-ranging journeys of wrack washed up on the mile-long stretch of Oregon beach she has walked regularly for more than a decade. Henderson’s writing has been called “enchanting, illuminating, often surprising, always informative.” “Subtle in its critique of our destructive impact on marine life, and lush with delight in the marvels of ocean and shore, Henderson’s beachcomber tales net a bounty of new knowledge and clarifying perceptions.” —Booklist Time: 4:00 PM Location: Village Books 1200 Eleventh Street Cost: Contact: (360) 671-2626 March 15, 2009: Council of the Grandmothers Empowerment Circle Receiving this empowerment helps to infuse the much-needed energy of Yin restoring balance to the planet. Learn who the Grandmothers are and receive their gift of love and empowerment. Time: 3:00p to 4:30p Location: Everybody's Yoga 1609 Broadway #202, Bellingham Cost: Contact: (360) 671-2626 March 16, 2009: Feathers of the Night: Owl Ecology with David Drummond, Merlin Falcon Foundation Wildlife Biologist We hear them hooting and sometimes see them briefly around our yard, on the trail, or in other people’s stories...but what do we really know about owls of our area? Join us for a fun evening of discovery about their bio-ecology, habitat associations, wintering strategies, and migration patterns via visuals. We will also listen to the calls of our Northwest species—you just might learn to hoot yourself. Time: 7:00-9:00 pm Location: Co-op Connection Building on the south side of the parking lot on Forest Street. Cost: $10 members, $12 non-members Contact: Kevin at 734-8158 or email kevinm@communityfood.coop March 16 & 23, 2009: Sustainable Bath Design: From Basics to Bliss When confronted with the typically small American bathroom, is there any hope? Come prepared to be inspired by innovative design ideas from Domistyle's design team--Jan Hayes, Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer, and Thea Stephens, designer. Course will focus on general principles of sustainable bath design and explore creative options from simple face-lifts to major remodels. The first evening will be devoted to small bath space challenges and solutions; second class will look at larger spaces, including master bath designs. Whether you would like to add a powder room or a soothing master bath, and whether your budget is large or small, come ready with your questions and be prepared to brainstorm some great bath ideas! Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Whatcom Community College, Laidlaw Ctr 126 Cost: $49.00 Contact: 360.383.3200 March 17 - May 8, 2009: WSU Coop Extension Beach Watchers 2009 Training The WSU Beach Watchers program invites you to celebrate spring in Whatcom County by getting out, getting informed, and getting involved! Join us as we explore our beaches, streams, forests, and agricultural lands. You’ll learn about our coastal geology, wildlife, marine biology, urban growth, and other local issues. Beach Watchers receive an extensive FREE Training and contribute 100 hours enhancing our community with volunteer projects of their choice. Space is limited. To apply, contact Time: Tuesdays 6pm – 9pm & Fridays 9am – 4:30 pm (no class April 7 & 10) Location: Classes take place in Bellingham with field trips throughout Whatcom County Cost: Free Contact: Cheryl Lovato Niles at 676-6736, or clniles@wsu.edu. March 18, 2009: Watershed Pledge Workshop Hear from the experts you need to help you reduce solid and hazardous waste at your business! Leave with a checklist and next steps for your business, a packet of information and a promotional plaque. Plus – you’ll be in time to add a Watersheds Pledge icon to your listing in the Member Directory! Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM Location: Sustainable Connections office 1701 Ellis St. Suite 221 Cost: Free Contact: Laura Witham Laura@Sconnect.org or http://sustainableconnections.org/bizdev/wpledge/ March 18, 2009: 'Wa Native Plant Society - Wetland Plants Of Tenant Lake' Join naturalist Jim Edwards of Tennant Interpretive Center in Ferndale for a whimsical look at some of the unique flora of wet places. Jim Edwards is a seasoned naturalist who works for WA Dept of Fish and Wildlife and with Whatcom County Parks to teach about the fascinating world of wetland plants. His will join us for a presentation about the native plants of Tennant Lake, a shallow eutrophic lake in Ferndale owned and managed by WA of Dept of Fish and Wildlife, and is accessible via a ½ mile long board walk where you can get up close and personal with the native plants. Jim received the Environmental Hero award in 2008, honored for his dedication and enthusiasm for educating people of all ages about the wonders of the natural world. Check out the website for Tennant Lake at http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/parks/tennantlake/index.jsp Enter the parking area behind the ReStore from Broadway. Come up the outside stairs to the second floor and enter the door at the top of the stairs. The meeting room will be on your left. There's an elevator in case you have difficulty with stairs. Call chapter president Mark Turner's mobile phone (360-220-2385) for access to the elevator since it requires a key. Time: 7:00-8:00 pm Location: ReStore, upstairs, at 2309 Meridian Street Cost: Free Contact: Wendy Scherrer at 715-2993 March 19, 2009: Introduction to Herbal Medicine with Nancy Swanson of Bruja Botanicals Nancy Swanson, owner of Bruja Botanicals, provides a thorough introduction to the therapeutic uses of plants. We will spend some time discussing the classic herbal manuals, giving pointers on how to choose one or more for your needs. Next we will consider how to choose specific herbs for any given purpose, followed by a discussion of harvesting and preserving methods for those who are interested in growing or wildcrafting their own herbs. Finally, we will discuss how the leaves, roots, and seeds are turned into poultices, tinctures, teas, salves, and creams. Time: 7:00-9:00 pm Location: Co-op Connection Building on the south side of the parking lot on Forest Street. Cost: $10 members, $12 non-members Contact: Kevin at 734-8158 or email kevinm@communityfood.coop March 20 - 26 2009: "Fuel" - Pickford Cinema “Change your fuel, change the world.” The rallying cry of director/activist Joshua Tickell’s “Fuel” is not as catchy as “Save the cheerleader, save the world,” but it is significantly more relevant to actually saving the planet. “Fuel” is upfront about the politics of energy and the power of big oil in government and business; understanding that is the preamble to how to effect change in practical terms. Tickell challenges Americans to take a cue from Europeans, who have pushed their governments to make energy independence a priority. Tickell spent years promoting biofuels and energy conservation by driving around the country in his “Green Machine,” a biodiesel van powered by reclaimed grease from fast–food restaurants. He turned to film to reach a wider audience. It turns out he’s an adept filmmaker. “Fuel” is a rousing documentary on the real costs of petrochemical dependence and the practical alternatives within reach. It confronts the debate over the efficiency of biofuels with the honesty and candor of a research scientist faced with contradictory data. It leads Tickell to extraordinary new possibilities. Most of all, “Fuel” is about making a difference. Tickell’s enthusiasm and encouragement left me inspired rather than discouraged, empowered with practical knowledge in how I can make a difference as a consumer, as a voter and as an inhabitant of the planet. Time: Various Location: Pickford Cinema Cost: Various Contact: (360) 738-0735 March 20, 2009: 'CALL FOR EARTH DAY PARTICIPANTS!!' The AS Environmental Center is in the planning process for this years Earth Day Celebration. This years theme is-- Rethink, React, Rebuild: inspiring creative environmental change. We are looking for organizations and businesses who would like to be a part of our earth day. We are looking for groups who would like to have a booth, host an activity or lead a workshop on April 25th from noon-6 pm on the Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU. The event will have bands, activities, educational information,etc. Time: 12:00 PM Location: Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU Cost: Free Contact: AS.earth@wwu.edu or call us at 360-650-6129 March 21, 2009: WHATCOM CONSERVATION DISTRICT'S 16th ANNUAL NATIVE PLANT SALE and 2nd ANNUAL EXPO The purpose of the WCD’s annual plant sale is to promote the stewardship and conservation of our natural resources. The plants sold at this sale are “conservation grade”, which means they are graded on their ability to survive, not on their ornamental value. Seedling plants are not large (generally between 10” and 24” tall), so your order will fit in the trunk or back seat of our car. We will have bags and packing materials available at the sale, or feel free to bring your own. Come to purchase low cost native plants and get your questions answered about native plants, planting techniques, composting, local agriculture, and restoration opportunities and more Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Location: Whatcom Community College Campus Cost: Free Contact: 360-354-2035 March 21, 2009: Bringing Native Plants into Your Landscape Bring native plants into your landscape and cultivate a lasting relationship with the natural world. This class focuses on plants native to the west slope of the Pacific Northwest that are attractive, multi-faceted, and versatile, plus attract birds, butterflies, and many other creatures. They can also play a vital role in the human process of reconnecting to nature and gaining a wealth of mental, physical, and spiritual health benefits. Instructor Nick Sky is a lifelong lover of plants, a natural historian, biogeographer, botanist, ecologist, and environmental educator. If you have the desire to bring nature into your life, don't miss this chance to discover and learn about Nick's top twelve native plant picks. The day will conclude with a field trip to Gardens at Padden Creek as well as a short guided walk on the Interurban Trail adjacent to the nursery. Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM Location: Whatcom Community College, Kelly 105 Cost: $45.00 Contact: 360.383.3200 March 21, 2009: Padden Creek Trail at 6th Street Help remove invasive plants and replace them with natives to improve wildlife habitat along this trail. Head west on Harris Street then turn left on 6th. Park on the street right-of-way and follow the signs to the work party site: WTA Red line # 105. Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Padden Creek Trail at 6th Street Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 21, 2009: Civic Forest Help the families of Carl Cozier Elementary School restore this urban forest. Park on Civic Field Way behind Joe Martin Stadium. Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Location: Civic Field Way behind Joe Martin Stadium Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 21, 2009: Big Rock Garden Volunteers are needed to help rid the Park of Stinky Bob and other Noxious Weeds and to help implement Sustainable Garden Practices in a newly designed garden bed. Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Location: Big Rock Garden Park Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 23 and 24, 2009: Whatcom 2031 Regional Growth Alternatives—Interactive Workshops All interested citizens are invited to the Whatcom County 2031 Regional Growth Alternatives Workshops. We will share regional growth alternatives and an environmental suitability analysis. Where should growth go? What areas should we work to protect for future generations? We need your ideas! Input from the interactive workshops will be considered as the County prepares the environmental impact statement for regional growth alternatives. Have a voice in shaping Whatcom County’s future! Whatcom County and cities are planning for between 44,000 and 68,000 more people and about 26,000 to 37,000 more jobs over the next 20 years. Some urban growth areas have too much or too little capacity for potential growth. More growth has occurred in rural areas than desired in the current Comprehensive Plan. Growth patterns and growth boundaries may need to change. Your ideas, please! What do you think? • How would you prioritize additions to urban growth areas that are undersized, or subtractions to urban growth areas that are oversized? • What should we do if more or less growth comes than we planned? n How can we best direct growth away from rural areas and towards cities and urban communities? • Should growth continue to be focused on Bellingham or should a greater share of growth go to other urban communities? Times and Locations: Mon, March 23 • 7:00–9:00 p.m. @ Birch Bay Bible Community Church • 7039 Jackson Rd • Blaine, WAContact: Kate Koch, Public Involvement Coordinator • Whatcom County Planning & Development Services (360) 676-6907• pds@co.whatcom.wa.us • www.co.whatcom.wa.us/pds/2031 March 24, 2009: Rainbarrels: Grow Your Own Water With Anitra Accetturo, Water Conservation Specialist for C.O.B. Public Works. Learn how to build, install, and maintain your own independent source of non-potable water. Water your garden. Wash the car or the dog. See a variety of different systems and get all the details from Anitra. Limit: 15 people. This workshop always fills quickly. For Whatcom County residents only. Time: 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM Location: RE Store in Bellingham, 2309 Meridian Street Cost: $25 - costs includes all the parts for your own rain barrel that you will take home with you! Contact: Register with Anitra via telephone at (360) 778-7732 March 25, 2009: PAUL BANNICK, THE OWL AND THE WOODPECKER INCLUDES SLIDESHOW! Spanning the continent from the arctic tundra to pine forests of the southeast, nature photographer Paul Bannick presents all 41 North American species of two iconic birds dear to nature lovers and birdwatchers nationwide. The Owl and the Woodpecker features stunning photography captured in the field while observing owls and woodpeckers in their natural habitats. Paul Bannick is an award-winning photographer, specializing in natural history imagery. An experienced naturalist and outdoor educator, Paul creates many of his images while kayaking, hiking, or snowshoeing in the Pacific Northwest. His work has appeared in numerous books and magazines, including The Seattle Times' Pacific Northwest Magazine, Sunset, and PhotoMedia, as well as on interpretive signs in both state and national parks throughout the West. Paul is the official photographer for Birdnote," a popular radio show on KPLU and several other NPR stations. He is the Director of Development for Conservation Northwest, and lives in Seattle, Washington. Event co-sponsored by Conservation Northwest & North Cascades Audubon. Time: 7:00 PM Location: Village Books 1200 Eleventh Street Cost: Contact: (360) 671-2626 March 27, 2009: STEVEN RINELLA, AMERICAN BUFFALO: IN SEARCH OF A LOST ICON Winner of a 2009 Book Award from the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association American Buffalo is a book as much about who we are as Americans as it is about the actual animal. Part adventure story, part history lesson, it’s a riveting read of enormous environmental importance. Bill McKibben calls it a “fluently written celebration of life.” Benjamin Wallace, author of The Billionaire’s Vinegar, says “This book will make you see America with fresh eyes.” Both a captivating narrative and a book of environmental and historical significance, "American Buffalo" tells us as much about ourselves as Americans as it does about the creature who perhaps best of all embodies the American ethos. Time: 7:00 PM Location: Village Books 1200 Eleventh Street Cost: Contact: (360) 671-2626 March 27, 2009: LEED AP Preparatory Class The AS Environmental Center is in the planning process for this years Earth Day Celebration. This years theme is-- Rethink, React, Rebuild: inspiring creative environmental change. We are looking for organizations and businesses who would like to be a part of our earth day. We are looking for groups who would like to have a booth, host an activity or lead a workshop on April 25th from noon-6 pm on the Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU. The event will have bands, activities, educational information,etc. Time: 08:00 AM to 5:00 PM Location: Sustainable Connections Cost: Contact: Brennan Schumacher brennan@dnalighting.com March 27, 2009: 'CALL FOR EARTH DAY PARTICIPANTS!!' The AS Environmental Center is in the planning process for this years Earth Day Celebration. This years theme is-- Rethink, React, Rebuild: inspiring creative environmental change. We are looking for organizations and businesses who would like to be a part of our earth day. We are looking for groups who would like to have a booth, host an activity or lead a workshop on April 25th from noon-6 pm on the Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU. The event will have bands, activities, educational information,etc. Time: 12:00 PM Location: Communications Building Lawn on South Campus at WWU Cost: Free Contact: AS.earth@wwu.edu or call us at 360-650-6129 March 28, 2009: NSEA’s Squalicum Creek Work Party Join NSEA and the City of Bellingham Parks Volunteer Program as we work to improve natural habitat for salmon and other wildlife at Maritime Heritage Park. We’ll be removing non-native, invasive plant species and planting native vegetation along the new trail through the park. Parking is available in the lot on C St. just off of Holly St. in downtown Bellingham. Look for signs and check in at the NSEA tent. Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Location: Maritime Heritage Park Cost: Free Contact: NSEA at 715-0283 or email volunteers@n-sea.org March 28, 2009: South Bay Trail Work Party Join Village Books staff in weeding, mulching, and planting along the trail. Park in Fairhaven, catch the trail at 10th & Mill and walk to site: WTA Red Line. Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Location: South Bay Trail, Fairahaven Cost: Free Contact: City of Bellingham 360.778.7105 March 30, 2009: 'Microscopic Plastics In The Marine Environment' Jen Kingfisher of the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. The production and use of plastic is rapidly increasing worldwide. Tons of plastic enter the sea during manufacture and disposal, when they are washed overboard or down storm drains and streams. The full impact of plastic on humans and the environment is to a large degree unknown, but Ms Kingfisher says plastic garbage in our seas has been shown to harm nearly 300 different animal and plant species. RE Sources is in the middle of a marine plastics recycling project that seeks to keep nets, fishing line, and plastic bottles from entering local rivers, streams and bays as garbage. The public is welcome to attend the March 30 presentation but encouraged to arrive early, as space is limited Time: 7:00 am to 9:00 am Location: SLC above the RE-Store on Meridian Cost: Free Contact: megana@re-sources.org |
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