|
Written by Rich Taylor
|
|
Monday, 14 January 2008 22:01 |
Sustainable Bellingham Announcements
Sustainable Bellingham Website
We are in the process of a major update to our website, and are excited about what we have in store to share with you all. Meanwhile the site is currently down.
In the meantime, this is a good time to explore our other online presences.
First, check out our presence at the Post-Carbon Institute's Relocalization network:
http://www.relocalize.net/groups/bellingham
Here you can register as members and participate with us interactively via blogs, forums, Events listings, and News items. You can also explore what other groups in the network are doing. You don't have to be registered to browse these pages, but you must register to participate... http://www.relocalize.net/user/register&destination=node/1274
and then join the Sustainable Bellingham group.
Second, our wiki pages are still up, at least for now. The main sections of our wiki are the CommunityInventory and the SustainabilityDocumentationProject. The CommunityInventory is a project to collect information about local community groups and resources involved in the development of sustainable living in our bioregion. Our SustainabilityDocumentationProject is an ever-growing archive of great articles on the subject of sustainability, collected here for your convenience, and divided into 18 categories.
http://sustainablebellingham.org/wiki/wikka.php?wakka=Home
By the way...if there are people out there who'd like to pitch in to help us get the new website up and running, please let us know!
David MacLeod
Sustainable Bellingham Web Team and Vision Team
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Our World In Crisis Support Group
Saturday, January 19th
100 E. Maple St.
(just west of the Farmer's Market)
10:30am-12:30pm
Fee $5
Our world is drastically changing on so many levels: the economy, increased prices, peak oil, loss of jobs and benefits, loss of our freedoms, global warming, over population, pollution, and on and on.
As we work through our denial, the first stage of Elizabeth Kubler Ross's Five Stages of Grief, we may feel overwhelmed, fearful, angry, sad and
or depressed.
Since many people are afraid to talk about their fears and worries, a few local therapists have come together to see what they can do. The idea of setting up and facilitating support groups was born. Knowing that the more we talk about our concerns with one another, the more we will find ways to work together in a supportive community environment as we face these crucial issues. We invite you to join us. Since this is a Drop-In Group, you are welcome to attend whenever you wish. However, for the sake of group cohesion, we do encourage you to come the entire time on the days you do join us.
The support group facilitators will be Lia Ayley, Francis Ayley, Cyndy Sheldon
This Support Group is co-sponsored by Sustainable Bellingham and the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center. Contact Cyndy Sheldon for more info:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Quote of the Week
"The science of Biomimicry suggests that we can realize tremendous gains in efficiency by copying from nature's `best' designs. I contend that we can mimic birds to create increasingly efficient flapping ornithopters, that might soon be scaled to safely carry human payloads. This is my quest and I'm looking for help."
- Karl Frank, The Great Blue Machine
'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Community Announcements - Listed by dates
And Recommended Reading
'''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Waterfront Advisory Group Meeting
January 15th; 6pm:
Bellingham Cruise Terminal, 335 Harris Ave , Bellingham
The agenda includes a briefing on the draft environmental impact statement for Bellingham 's waterfront development and a discussion of the next "Concept Planning Session" scheduled for later in January.
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Chuckanut Ridge & Fairhaven Highlands
Wed, Jan 16 Public Hearing
We hope you can come and even if you do, please also send written comment about why it is important to preserve the area known as THE HUNDRED ACRE WOOD from both environmental and social standpoints.
(see below for points to consider).
Send comments to Nicole Oliver, City of Bellingham Planning Dept, 210 Lottie St, Bellingham, WA 98225, Email: Nicole Oliver <
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
>
Public Hearing on the scope of the EIS - Wed, Jan 16 @ 6:30 pm
A public hearing will be held to obtain comments on the scope of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Fairhaven Highlands development on Chuckanut Ridge on: Bellingham Municipal Court Building (2014 C. St)
To view the FAQ on this issue, click here: http://www.rdnow.org/Documents/frequently%20asked%20questions%20about%20chuckanut%20ridge.htm
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Circles of Women, 2008
New evening group begins Jan. 16, 6:15 -9:00 PM - 8 sessions
Purpose: To connect with others at a deep level, share our stories, learn and practice tools for positive transitions and more fulfilling futures. Process: Using the process called, Appreciative Inquiry, we will focus on the values and strengths we have brought to the best times of our lives. From that awareness, we will turn & look at our futures & begin to look at our possibilities in new ways.
Facilitator, Barbara Gilday, 676-0765, www.BarbaraGilday.com
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Memories of a Dream Change Journey:
A 9-Day Expedition to Ecuador with John Perkins, co-founder of The Pachamama Alliance
January 17, 2008, 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30)
Wise Awakening's Orca Room, 314 E. Holly St., Bellingham
Bellingham IONS meeting with guest Linda Adler, who writes - "In August 1993 I accompanied John on a Dream Change Coalition Journey that combined ecological studies, the preservation of the rain forest and the learning of shamanic techniques. Experience the beauty of this exotic land, its people, and the magic and wonder of these shaman - ordinary people with extraordinary power. Join me as I share memories and photographs of this exciting, spiritual, life-changing experience."
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Discover the wonders of Larrabee Park in the Dark!
January 19th; 8-10pm
Join RE Sources, WSU Beach Watchers and People For Puget Sound at this premiere event of the winter season! Enjoy a rare and exciting opportunity to scout out the rich night life of our shoreline Saturday, January 19th 2008 from 8-10 pm at Larrabee State Park . Guided by Beach Naturalists, Beach Watchers and other creature experts, the group will have special permission to access this beach otherwise closed after dark.
Registration is recommended. This event is free, though donations are appreciated to help support the continuation of the volunteer program. To register or for more information contact Doug Stark at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
, 733-8307, or look up www.re-sources.org or www.pugetsound.org
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
James Howard Kunstler': Urban Sustainable Development Fellowship Lecture
Monday, January 21, 2008. 7:00 PM
Simon Fraser University: Surrey Campus
Vancouver, BC, CANADA
To attend contact: Terri Evans, Tel: 778-782-7914, Email:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.sfu.ca/urban
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Eating Locally in the Off-Season with Charles Claassen of the North Cascades Institute
Tuesday, January 22, 6:30-9:00 PM, Community Food Co-op
Community Food Co-op Healthy Connections Series, $20 members, $24 non-members. We enjoy the bounty of summer at the region's farmers markets, but what about during the winter and early spring? Explore simple, satisfying recipes utilizing some of the less glamorous veggies grown throughout the winter in northwest Washington.
Call Kevin at 734-8158 or email
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
.
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
United for National Healthcare Meeting
Jan 24, 2008 7:00 PM
All concerned citizens are invited to attend a meeting and educational program supporting health care as a basic right. Laborers Hall, downstairs, 1700 N. State St., Bellingham. 7:00 PM (360) 714-8999.
For questions regarding this calendar listing, contact Aileen Satushek, 398-2295 or at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
.
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
"TOWARDS DEEPENING OUR COMMITMENT TO THE
GREENING OF OUR COMMUNITY"
Thursday January 31, at 7pm.
Whatcom Peace & Justice Center, 100 E.Maple Street, will be host to this citizen-sponsored initiative designed to deepen and strengthen our commitment to environmental stewardship through our own individual actions, bringing together four groups that met this past. The purpose of this meeting is to continue to move forward in ways that strengthen and deepen our commitment to environmental stewardship and our connection to each other. Everyone welcome.
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
World Issues Forums presents
"Lessons from Hanford, the most contaminated area in the western Hemisphere: Why nuclear power is not part of the solution to global warming"
Wednesday February 6:
by Gerry Pollet, JD Executive Director of Heart of America Northwest. 12-1:30pm in Fairhaven Auditorium.
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Holistic Education Workshop on Orcas Island
Saturday, March 1, 9:00-4:00
Salmonberry Elementary School, Eastsound, WA (on Orcas Island)
Co-sponsors Goddard College & Salmonberry School, bringing you Dr. David Marshak, on: "21st Century Education for Sustainability and Evolution," Dr. Brent Cameron, on: "Systems Thinking and Education for Passion." Dr. Gus Lyn Piluso on: "Emancipatory Relationships" and "Engaged Pedagogy." Paul Freedman on: "Postmodern Theory and its Practical Implications for Elementary Holistic Education."
For more info, contact:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Recommended Reading, Listening & Watching
Does More Money Necessarily Yield More Happiness? Author Bill McKibben's Provocative Comments
Rick Dubrow's On the Level Podcast, July 2007 15:25:35 PST Format: audio/mp3 File Size: 42,058,315 bytes
Author Bill McKibben's compelling speech to the Sustainable Connections' Business Conference in 2007 regarding his new book "Deep Economics". He focuses upon whether or not additional money necessarily brings someone more happiness. Bill's perspective also offers insight into the importance of buying (and being) local. Michelle Long, Sustainable Connections' Executive Director, introduces Bill as well as briefly describes the well being of Sustainable Connections and its 550+ business members. [This Bill McKibben presentation in Bellingham is Highly recommended! - DavidM]
http://www.a1builders.ws/rss/on_the_level_004.mp3
Yikes! Will gas hit $200 a barrel?
By Dave Gallagher, Bellingham Herald "Biz Blog," Jan. 8, 2008
Several articles on the wire today are talking about oil hitting $200 a barrel by the end of the year. Here is one from Bloomberg.
According to the article, a key factor in this speculation is the expectation that demand will continue to increase at a time when oil companies are straining to meet current levels. However, others expect the U.S. economy to slow down this year, which might cut into that demand.
It didn't seem that long ago when no one but the speculators were thinking it would hit $100 a barrel. Now that that mark has been broken, it seems oil will at least stay around this level.
Some point out that if oil prices continue to rise, it's a sign the global economy is still doing well. Of course, if Whatcom County consumers are paying $3.30 or so for a gallon of gas while at $100 a barrel, what will we be paying at $200 a barrel? That would be quite an adjustment to make.
Any thoughts?
http://blogs.bellinghamherald.com/index.php?blog...
Transfer of Lake Whatcom Forest Board Land: Is Now the Time?
by Tom Pratum, Whatcom Watch, January, 2008
In the October/November issue of Whatcom Watch, a short article appeared entitled "Park Status for Over 8,000 Watershed Acres." This article gives the impression that the transfer of land between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Whatcom County is a done deal, and that the transfer will result in greatly increased protection for the Lake Whatcom watershed. These conclusions are very much open to question.
As of this writing (early December 2007), the county's plans are vague, and nothing concrete has been presented to the council. It appears that a preliminary agreement between Whatcom County and the DNR will be presented in early January. It is essential that we take time now to discuss and debate this huge land use proposal: Is this proposal good for the Lake Whatcom watershed and the citizens of Whatcom County?
http://www.whatcomwatch.org/php/WW_open.php?id=895
Journey to Permaculture - A Win-Win Solution
by Merry Teesdale, Whatcom Watch, December 2008
Part 1
It has been said that permaculture will save the world and at the very least it will design a greener, healthier planet. The great attraction is its positivism because, wherever the techniques are implemented, they lead to benefits for us as well as other living things. Furthermore, anyone can practice it...
http://www.whatcomwatch.org/php/WW_open.php?id=877
Journey to Permaculture - Year Two
by Merry Teesdale, Whatcom Watch, January, 2008
Part 2
It's 2004 and the green grassy lawn at my home covers about a third of an acre. Mowing is my least favorite chore. I feel guilty each time I'm doing it.. Will I be doing this over and over and over for the rest of the time I belong to this place? What underlies the belief that our culture has about lawns? How can it be changed? I make a personal decision to permanently cut down on my mowing time. Just to make it interesting, I give myself a five-year time limit to change the lawn into something that doesn't need mowing, yet looks good and is good for the land too...
http://www.whatcomwatch.org/php/WW_open.php?id=894
Impossible Dreamer
By Karl Frank, Great Blue Machine blog, January 11, 2008
Karl Frank is a local educator who has joined the Sustainable Bellingham Relocalization network. Be sure to check out his amazing YouTube videos.
On October 12 of last year, I attended a public screening of `What a Way to Go -Life at the End of Empire'. Sustainable Bellingham sent out the invitations and the filmmakers Sally and Tim Bennett were there at the Whatcom Community College Heiner Center Auditorium to greet their largest audience ever, about 350 persons.During the discussion group that followed the screening of What a Way To Go, I was dismayed by the number of comments that essentially conveyed a willingness to `give up' in the face of the enormous challenges we now face.Instead, I'm choosing to go after my own windmill. I dream of a Great Blue Machine to change the landscape. If you've watched the two short videos (Biomimicry of Ardea herodias parts one and two) posted on YouTube, you've seen James DeLaurier's flapping wing ornithopter in action and you've glimpsed a number of methods that have been used to get persons into the air over the years. The science of Biomimicry suggests that we can realize tremendous gains in efficiency by copying from nature's `best' designs. I contend that we can mimic birds to create increasingly efficient flapping ornithopters, that might soon be scaled to safely carry human payloads. This is my quest and I'm looking for help.
http://karlfrank.wordpress.com/
The Long Emergency: Orlov and Kunstler (Podcast)
KMO, C-Realm Podcast
KMO welcomes author Dmitry Orlov back to the program for a discussion of keeping people fed in times of turmoil and for a reading from Orlov's soon-to-be-published book, Reinventing Collapse: The Soviet Example and American Prospects. After that, James H. Kunstler, author of The Long Emergency: Surviving the Converging Catastrophes of the Twenty-First Century, drops by to talk about the fate of surburbia in the post-petroleum era.
http://c-realmpodcast.podomatic.com/entry/2008-01-09T14_54_16-08_00
[Dmitry Orlov reads a devasting excerpt about the American food supply from his upcoming book. He then discusses food production in Russia. -Bart Anderson]
''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''''
Events and recommended reading compiled by David MacLeod
contact us:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
website: http://www.sustainablebellingham.org
unsubscribe: send email to
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
, or go here:
http://lists.riseup.net/www/info/sbannounce
|
|
