GreenDrinks London

We've moved.

2010-07-30T23:14:00.014-04:00

Our blog and community calendar listings have now moved to ecoLIVING London.

Please join us there for the most up to date information.

To stay connected to GreenDrinks London visit our website or find us on FACEBOOK.

Cheers.

What if Climate Change is a Hoax?

2010-07-27T19:40:00.001-04:00

I saw this fantastic cartoon on a blog called 'Living Lime' - thought you'd enjoy it as much as I did.

Original by Joel Pett, Lexington (Ky.) Herald-Leader, Cartoonists and Writers Syndicate, for USA TODAY.

July: Events Around the City.

2010-07-01T09:07:00.001-04:00

All Summer at Landon Library
Read Green, Think Green
Summertime and the reading is green! Borrow any material from the Landon branch library this summer that supports the care of our environment and enter your name for one of our" green" weekly prizes.

Sat July 3
Secret Gardens Tour
A family friendly garden tour in the historic Blackfriars area from 10-4. Great gardens, supervised children’s activities, raffles, refreshments and entertainment. Adults$10, Children FREE. Tickets for sale at London Regional Children's Museuum & at the gardens on the day of the tour. Visit www.londonchildfest.com for garden locations. The Blackfriars Area by the Bridge, COST:Adults $10. EMAIL: secretgardenstour@rogers.com.

Sun July 4 8:30 am
Nature London SKUNK’S MISERY BUTTERFLY COUNT
Spend the day helping to identify and count butterflies along the roadsides and elsewhere in the Skunk’s Misery area. Those less experienced at identifying butterflies will be paired with experienced observers. Bring drinking water, a lunch, sun block, a hat, insect repellent; as well as close-focusing binoculars, field guides, and a butterfly net if you have them. Directions from London (approximately one hour travel time): carpool with your friends and take Commissioners Rd or Oxford St, then Glendon Dr (County Rd 14) west to Newbury and meet in the parking lot of Newbury Hospital.

Tues July 8 2:00 to 3:00 pm
PUBLIC ART WALKS followed by tea at Eldon House
Visit a selection of public art pieces throughout the downtown core, and learn more about the artists who designed them as well as the organizations that commissioned them. Our guide will give insight into the relationship between sculptural markers and the landscape and architecture surrounding them, and will generate a discussion about public spaces where collective stories can be shared to contribute to a city’s cultural identity. Each week will be a different tour—monuments and memorials, sculpture, murals and graffiti, and architectural decoration—so join us for all four! We will end at the gardens of Eldon House for optional refreshments. The walks will take place rain or shine. Meet on the front lawn of Museum London. Admission for walk FREE. Tea at Eldon House is $7/person

Thurs July 8 - 11
Sunfest 2010
Sunfest is Canada's Premier Celebration of the Global Arts, held without admission fee in beautiful Victoria Park, London, Ontario. This unique, high profile event features over 30 top professional world music & dance and jazz ensembles based in Canada and abroad. Victoria Park. WEBSITE: www.sunfest.on.ca

Tues July 8 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Walk for the Fun of it! (Community Walking Group)
Meet at the Beacock Library and spend some time walking and talking. Do it for fun, do it for your health, do it to meet new people. When you sign up for the program you'll receive a Walk this Way kit with useful information and tips. This program is in partnership with NELCE (Northeast London Community Engagement). Beacock Study Room A

Sat July 10
Family Fishing Day @ Fanshawe Conservation Authority

Tues July 15 2:00 to 3:00 pm
PUBLIC ART WALKS followed by tea at Eldon House
Visit a selection of public art pieces throughout the downtown core, and learn more about the artists who designed them as well as the organizations that commissioned them. Our guide will give insight into the relationship between sculptural markers and the landscape and architecture surrounding them, and will generate a discussion about public spaces where collective stories can be shared to contribute to a city’s cultural identity. Each week will be a different tour—monuments and memorials, sculpture, murals and graffiti, and architectural decoration—so join us for all four! We will end at the gardens of Eldon House for optional refreshments. The walks will take place rain or shine. Meet on the front lawn of Museum London. Admission for walk FREE. Tea at Eldon House is $7/person

Fri July 16 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Green Machine: Recycle & Reuse (5-12)
Go Green! Help the environment and make some marvelous masterpieces. Crouch Library - Meeting Room 3

Fri July 16 - 18
Home County Folk Festival
London's longest running FREE admission music and arts festival showcasing a variety of Canadian folk music from both Juno Award winners and emerging artists on six stages in Victoria Park. Experience traditional, Celtic, indie/folk rock, blues, bluegrass, Aboriginal, Quebecois and much more. Stroll through the park and shop at over 150 juried Canadian crafters and artisans or sample a variety of foods. Come see the expanded children's area for 2010. Check out our website for artist announcements, the new children’s programming and a big special announcement coming soon. Fun for the whole family. Come experience why Home County was voted Ontario’s Top 100 festival and events! Victoria Park, London, ON N6B 1A1. EMAIL: info@homecounty.ca. WEBSITE: www.homecounty.ca

Tues July 20th 7pm onwards
GREENDRINKS LONDON... Summer on the Patio
Where: Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street (downtown between Colborne and Waterloo)

Tues July 22 2:00 to 3:00 pm
PUBLIC ART WALKS followed by tea at Eldon House
Visit a selection of public art pieces throughout the downtown core, and learn more about the artists who designed them as well as the organizations that commissioned them. Our guide will give insight into the relationship between sculptural markers and the landscape and architecture surrounding them, and will generate a discussion about public spaces where collective stories can be shared to contribute to a city’s cultural identity. Each week will be a different tour—monuments and memorials, sculpture, murals and graffiti, and architectural decoration—so join us for all four! We will end at the gardens of Eldon House for optional refreshments. The walks will take place rain or shine. Meet on the front lawn of Museum London. Admission for walk FREE. Tea at Eldon House is $7/person

Sat July 24 - 25
Summer On The Farm @ Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Visit the Villagers as they are hard at work in the fields and in their shops. See demonstrations of 19th century trades and farm work. Draft Horse Demonstrations by the Southern Ontario Draft Horse Club. 4 Minute Mile performing from 1:30 - 3:30 pm on Sunday. Fanshawe Pioneer Village EMAIL: info@fanshawepioneervillage.ca WEBSITE: www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca

Sat July 24 - 25
Garden Gates Open
Garden Gates Open is a free citywide garden tour, to explore, walk, travel and enjoy the secret gems of our city behind garden gates. This is the third summer for the Garden Gates Open. You will find gardens of all varieties, all levels of skill, creativity and ingenuity. Are you looking for new ideas? An avid gardener working on your own garden in progress? A former gardener looking to enjoy the weekend traveling from neighborhood to neighborhood stopping to enjoy as the mood strikes you? I am looking to register gardens up to and including the 2oth of July, 2010. I have registered Banting house, and two hospital gardens, as well as many private and fabulous gardens, and a few that are wonders in progress! register your garden, or watch for the maps to appear mid July on the website to plan your route. This is a gardeners delight weekend! I am also looking for amateur photographers to photograph these wonderful gardens. every day gardens by everyday people, neighbor to neighborhood. come out and enjoy! citywide, London, ON EMAIL: trees4oev@yahoo.ca WEBSITE: www.londoncib.ca

Tues July 29 2:00 to 3:00 pm
PUBLIC ART WALKS followed by tea at Eldon House
Visit a selection of public art pieces throughout the downtown core, and learn more about the artists who designed them as well as the organizations that commissioned them. Our guide will give insight into the relationship between sculptural markers and the landscape and architecture surrounding them, and will generate a discussion about public spaces where collective stories can be shared to contribute to a city’s cultural identity. Each week will be a different tour—monuments and memorials, sculpture, murals and graffiti, and architectural decoration—so join us for all four! We will end at the gardens of Eldon House for optional refreshments. The walks will take place rain or shine. Meet on the front lawn of Museum London. Admission for walk FREE. Tea at Eldon House is $7/person

Sat July 31st - Day & Night
The Grickle Grass Festival
Celebrating Sustainability and Local Art at the London Regional Children's Museum.

DAY: Fun Creative + Sustainable Activities for kids and families
NIGHT: Bands, DJs, Local Iron Spike Beer and Black Fly Coolers for Adults 19+

This fundraising event is in support of The London Regional Chilren's Museum and Growing Chef's Ontario

Day Programming: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Regular Museum Admission Free
Activities:

* Whatcha Cookin’ by Growing Chef's Ontario
* Foods with Moods by Growing Chef's Ontario
* Dress your Lettuce by Growing Chef's Ontario
* A Screening of The Lorax
* Street Magic with Lupi
* If I Ran The Circus: Drama with Dana
* Buggin’ Out: Crafts with Karyn
* Bike with Mike
*The planting of the Museum’s first vegetable garden!

With musical guests: Matthew and the Birds Brian Cooper

Night Party: 8:00 pm to 1:00 am
$15 in advance, $20 at the door

Bands:

*The Balconies (picture)
*Miles Jones
*Wild Domestic
*Thesis Sahib
*More More
*The Woody Allens
*The Whipping Wind
*Karyn Roantree

DJs:

*DJ Freek
*DJ Benny Knox
*DJ Jesney

For tickets and more information: info@gricklegrassfest.com

Sat July 31st 9-4pm
Hidden History of Hamilton Road Event
Crouch Branch Library
550 Hamilton Road

The Crouch Library, Hamilton Road Community Association and the London & Middlesex Historical Society present More Hidden History of Hamilton Road, a local history fair, July 31st at Crouch Library, 550 Hamilton Road.

Do you remember the old London Nationals, the Ontario Arena, the CNR Car Shops, Barton and Rumball trucks, the Rex Theatre, Chesley Avenue School, Starr-Genett and Spartan Records? See vintage baseball bats and hockey sticks manufactured East of Adelaide and hear about the industrial history and railway heritage of the SoHo community. Learn about the Hamilton Road Area Historical Plaques Project, the London and Middlesex Historical Society and much more.

A demonstration of grass roots community revitalization in action.

For more information contact Stephen Harding, Coordinator of Hidden Historyat harding.steve@sympatico.ca

June: Events Around the City

2010-05-29T23:49:00.010-04:00

Monday, May 31st 7:00 - 9:00pm
Bike Week Film Screening
Today, many cities struggle with providing a menu of transportation choices for residents. Traffic slows things down and adds more CO2 to our air. Riding a bicycle is a greener option for getting around. London Public Library is pleased to partner with the City of London and TREA to present episodes from the acclaimed PBS series 'E²' which illustrate how other cities are coming up with creative ways to manage this issue. The film will be followed by a discussion. Visit www.e2-series.com to be inspired. Where: Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt (A+B)

Tuesday, June 1st 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Photo Scavenger Hunt, Alley Cat Ride
Victoria Park bandshell. Bring bike and digital camera. Participants will match an image list of London 'landmarks': familiar buildings, murals, statues or locations. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Wednesday, June 2nd 4:00 - 7:00 pm
CLEAN AIR DAY Bike Kitchen
Pay What You Can Tune-ups, skill and tool sharing workshop. Mechanics on site. Turn On, Tune up & Pedal Out! A London Bicycle Festival Event. East Village Arts Co-op, 757 Dundas St.

Wednesday, June 2nd 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Bike co-ops, repairs and cycling - Landon Library (host)
Learn more about UWO’s Purple Bike lending and repair program on campus. In addition, information and a film on cycling will inform cyclists in riding safely on our streets. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Wednesday, June 2nd, 6:30 pm
TREES OF MOUNT PLEASANT CEMETERY - Nature London
Established more than a century ago, the cemetery contains a number of interesting native and non-native trees. Specialties include Tulip-tree, Cucumber Magnolia, Chestnut Oak, Black Maple and Ohio Buckeye. If we are lucky, some of these may be in flower. Meet near the chapel at the south end of the cemetery, off Riverside Drive between Woodward Avenue and Wonderland Road. For more information call 5194724864.

Wednesday, June 2nd 6:15 pm
Bike Ride: Fanshawe Lake
Join the London Mountain Bike Club for a beginner friendly ride around Fanshawe Lake (20 km). Email: president @ londonmtb.com before June 2 to confirm guest policies. Ride starts 6:15 pm sharp, bike wash by main pavilion. Bring bike, helmet, water and Fanshawe day fee. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Thursday, June 3rd 7:30 - 9:00 pm
PUBLIC MEETING: What’s happening in other cities on cycling that Londoners could embrace?
Join TREA for a lively presentation and discussion to reduce London’s dependency on cars and increase cycling. 1017 Western Rd. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Friday, June 4th
The City will host a media event to introduce “sharrows” – shared lane markings – to London streets and increased bicycle parking downtown. Details to follow at www.london.ca. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Saturday, June 5th 9:00 - 2:00 pm
London Recycling Day @ Western Fairgrounds
CAA in partnership with the City of London is hosting a Recycling Day at Western Fairgrounds, behind the Farmers Market from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. We will be inviting members of the public to drop off old household batteries, car batteries and tires. Where: 900 King Street East

Saturday, June 5th 10:00 - 4:00 pm
Gathering on the Green - Wortley Village Green, Wortley Rd.
Come out to Old South's annual festival on the green of the historic Normal School. Gathering on the Green has a small-town festival feel, focusing on hosting local craftspeople and entertainers of all ages and non-profit organizations. It is a fun, free family-friendly day. Stop by the GreenDrinks and ecoLIVING London display to say hello and enter our FREE ecoLIVING MAKEOVER Contest.

Saturday, June 5th 12:00 Noon
Old South Community Bike Ride.
As part of the Gathering on the Green and London Bike Festival please join Gosse and myself (Gary Brown) for a leisurely ride through Old South. All are welcome, adults, children. Helmets are required. We will be riding on the road. We will be there to ensure everyone’s safety and fun as we tour Old South as a two wheeled group.

Saturday, June 5th 10:00am
Ride to Gathering on the Green.
We are organizing two rides from SW and NE London to the Green starting at 10:00 am. Enjoy a leisurely ride and a day of community spirit! A London Bicycle Festival Event

Saturday, June 5th 9:00 - 10:00 am
Don’t ride? Then walk!
One hour walks sponsored by Healthy Living Partnership of MLHU and TVTA. Families welcome, trails too rugged for strollers, leave dogs at home. Location: South Branch Park, E. end. Meet end of Pottersburg Pollution Plant Rd., S. from Hamilton Road and Gore Road intersection. Visit www.thamesvalleytrail.org for more info.

Sunday, June 6th 12:00 - 4:00 pm
YMCA Children’s Safety Village - Kid’s Helmet Exchange & 9th annual birthday party
Children’s Safety Village, Fanshawe Conservation Area. Visit www.safetyvillage.ca for details. A London Bicycle Festival Event

Sunday, June 6th 1:00 - 5:00 pm
Walk: Ridout/Talbot Streets Neighbourhood
The London Region branch of the Architectural Conservancy of Ontario celebrates the 175th Anniversary of Eldon House by featuring the oldest home in London on its 37th annual Geranium Heritage Home walking tour of architectural gems. This fundraising event includes guided visits to the interiors of several homes. The ACO has been active in built heritage preservation in London for more than 40 years. "The greenest building is the one that is already standing." Go to www.acolondon.ca/acolondon/Events.html for ticket info.

Wednesday, June 9th 6:30 pm
WALK: GIBBONS PARK in EARLY SUMMER - Nature London
Meet the leader in the parking lot at the bottom of the hill at the west end of Grosvenor Street to go for an easy stroll along the river.

Wednesday, June 9th 7:00 p.m.
SPEAKER: Sarah Elton, author of new book Locavore and food columnist for CBC Radio's Here & Now, is speaking at the Central Library
Sarah will be speaking about how Canadians can bring about a more local and sustainable food system. Locavore outlines with precision how Canada lost self-sufficiency in food and recounts with joy and enthusiasm the stories of individual farmers, co-ops, community projects and businesses which will bring us back to a more localized food system that won't cost the Earth. This event is an exciting addition to the London Public Library's commitment to programs about our community, gardening and food production beyond our borders. Sarah will also be available to sign her book, which will be available for sale at the event thanks to local, independent book retailer Oxford Book Shop Limited. This is a free event. No registration required. Or visit Sarah Elton's website www.thelocavore.ca.

Saturday, June 12th 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Reforest London Tree Planting - Gibbons Park
ReForest London is celebrating our 5th birthday with a tree-mendous birthday party hosted by London Life. We return to our very first project to add over 200 trees and shrubs, followed by a free barbeque at the London Life recreation grounds located just a short walk from the project site. Join us for a great day of trees, fun party activities, and good food. Access near tennis courts on Gibbons Place at Victoria Street. By bus: Richmond Street (1-6-13) to Victoria, walk west on Victoria to Gibbons Place. Park at the tennis courts.

Saturday, June 12th 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
To Market, To Market, Jiggety-jig!
The Children's Library staff are on the road. Join us at the Outdoors Farmer's Market for special storytimes featuring stories, songs, rhymes, crafts and a snack provided by the Covent Garden Market. In the case of inclement weather, storytime will be held inside the market. Co-sponsored with Covent Garden Market.

Saturday, June 12th to Monday, June 14th
Forest Gardening: Ecologically Intelligent Design for Human Living
In this workshop we inform and engage you in creating ecologically sustainable sanctuaries for human living and planetary sustainability. You will learn how to apply practical Forest Gardening design to a diversity of landscapes with a focus on dense urban environments and temperate regions. Learn how to grow your own food no matter how big or small your backyard is. Design your own property, and learn how to 'be a part of the solution' using forest gardening principles. Passionate, long-time gardeners, herbalist and eco-spiritual guides, Shantree Kacera D.N., Ph.D. and Lorenna Bousquet-Kacera, invite you to discover this remarkable model for creating gardens that support oneself and the Earth. This is a hands-on-experiential training in ecosystem structure and function, and in landscape understanding. It will show you how you can achieve the same benefits that natural systems demonstrate: stability, resilience, self-maintenance, self-renewal, increased soil quality, and nutrient conservation. Contact Name: Lorenna & Shantree Kacera, D.N., Ph.D. Website: www.thelivingcentre.com

Sunday, June 13th
Offgrid Sustainable Living Tours - Port Burwell
The tour will show solar water heaters, solar air heaters, Biodiesel making, oil expelling, double wall construction in the house, composting toilet, water system, gardens, composting, Solar panels and windmill etc. See the web site and reserve a spot ahead by emailing Mat Redsell at mat@continuo.com. Address: 48 Strachan St, Port Burwell ON, N0J 1T0

Tuesday, June 15th 7pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON… Summer on the Patio.
No speaker, just drinks and some laid back meeting and mingling. Don't be shy, everyone is welcome and Tiffany will always make sure you have someone to talk with.
Where: Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street, downtown between Waterloo & Colborne.

Wednesday, June 16th 7:00 PM
On the Road to a Green Economy
Join us for a panel discussion on what a green economy would look like, how we can build one locally and what government policies are needed in order to make the transition. Panelists include Tony Clarke, author of Tar Sands Showdown; Jamie Skimming, a Professional Engineer responsible for Air Quality and Climate Change in London; Ken Bondy, from Canadian Autoworkers Union; and Sarah Jane Saska, youth representative and key organizer in the southwestern Ontario speaking tour. There will be community displays starting at 6:30, the event will kickoff at about 7, and afterward there will be musical performance from Three Penny Piece and another opportunity to learn about community groups. Location: Fanshawe College, Falcon House Residence (R1), Room R1020

Thursday, June 17th 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Resilient London 2030: Exploring the Transition Model
Transition London is part of a vibrant, international grassroots movement that builds resilient communities in response to the challenges of peak oil, climate change and the economic crisis. Join us for a presentation and Q&A, followed by a discussion of the things that will affect our lives in the future; neighbourhood networks; strategic questions; and next steps. This introduction to Transition Towns Culture is an open space, participatory experience event. Together we can make the transition to a more fulfilling, equitable and sustainable world. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B

Thursday, June 17th 7:00 p.m.
Film Screening: Farm for the Future
Where: Central Library, 251 Dundas Street. Cost: Free.
Film maker Rebecca Hosking, known for her startling documentary Message in the Waves, brings the same sort of passion to her topic here. Hosking is going to take over her family farm in Devon, UK and has looked at the unsettling aspects of corporate agriculture, including its heavy fossil-fuel use. She goes around her region to meet farmers who are using low fossil fuel agriculture styles and finds that nature’s diversity holds the key to positive change. Group conversation to follow.

Saturday, June 19th 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
To Market, To Market, Jiggety-jig!
The Children's Library staff are on the road. Join us at the Outdoors Farmer's Market for special storytimes featuring stories, songs, rhymes, crafts and a snack provided by the Covent Garden Market. In the case of inclement weather, storytime will be held inside the market. Co-sponsored with Covent Garden Market.

Sunday, June 20th 4:00pm
Coves Walk at the GCC's Summer Solstice Celebration
Location: German Canadian Club, 1 Cove Road
Come out to celebrate the arrival of summer at the German Canadian Club's annual Summer Solstice Celebration. All are welcome to this free, family-friendly event which begins at 3:00pm. There will be live music, soccer, bbq and refreshments.
I will be leading a walk along the Coves East Pond at 4:00pm. The event will close with a bonfire and sing-along at dusk.

June 25 - 27
International Food Festival
Local and international food and live entertainment. A licensed beer garden features most musical genres. Children's activities and large rides. Where: Victoria Park. Visit the website for more info www.canadasbiggestparty.com

Saturday June 26th 10:45am
Tree Planting @ the EcoPark
We need your help! Come out and join us at the Eco Park and help plant some trees, have a bbq lunch, and help us in honouring the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Athletes and their families. Help create a legacy, as one tree will be planted for every Special Olympics Canadian Summer Games Athlete. Our Goal: Plant 1426 trees, one for each athlete this summer. Place: The EcoPark - Medway Road, just east of Clarke Road, look for the large sign and entrance. A big thank you to Fanshawe College, Special Olympics Summer Games London 2010, for selecting the EcoPark as the place to plant the trees.

Saturday, June 26th 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
To Market, To Market, Jiggety-jig!
The Children's Library staff are on the road. Join us at the Outdoors Farmer's Market for special storytimes featuring stories, songs, rhymes, crafts and a snack provided by the Covent Garden Market. In the case of inclement weather, storytime will be held inside the market. Co-sponsored with Covent Garden Market.

Sunday, June 27th
Offgrid Sustainable Living Tours - Port Burwell
The tour will show solar water heaters, solar air heaters, Biodiesel making, oil expelling, double wall construction in the house, composting toilet, water system, gardens, composting, Solar panels and windmill etc. See the web site and reserve a spot ahead by emailing Mat Redsell at mat@continuo.com. Address: 48 Strachan St, Port Burwell ON, N0J 1T0

London’s $100,000 Clean Air Challenge

2010-05-29T23:42:00.003-04:00

London Community Foundation's "Clean Air Challenge" grant program is designed to help both aspiring and established environmentalists bring innovative green ideas, products and/or services to fruition in London and Middlesex.

Specifically they are seeking to fund ideas that will improve air quality by addressing one or more of the following objectives:

* Reducing emissions;
* Reducing greenhouse gases;
* Reducing particulate;
* Reducing waste;
* Improving water or energy efficiency; or
* Engaging London’s residents, businesses or communities in pro-environmental behaviour change.

Do you think you have an idea or part of the solution?

We want to hear from you.

Tell us about your community initiative, product, service, or technology that will contribute to improved air quality and you could receive a grant up to $100,000.

Click here for more information.

Nominations - Pillar Community Innovation Awards

2010-05-29T23:38:00.001-04:00

Share your stories. Inspire by example. Recognize deserving individuals and organizations. If you know of an individual, nonprofit or charity, business or government sector organization in the London area that has demonstrated dedication, creative solutions and/or a collaborative spirit, consider nominating them for a Pillar Community Innovation Award. The four award categories are: Innovation, Leadership, Impact and Collaboration. Nominations are now being accepted and must be received by 5PM on June 30. In addition to recognition and an engraved award, award recipients will receive $2500 to be directed to the registered charity of their choice.

Download the details in the nomination package at http://bit.ly/PillarAwards2010 or contact events@pillarnonprofit.ca. Watch the videos of past award finalists at www.youtube.com/user/pillarnonprofit.

London's Amazing Tree Quest - May 19th to July 31

2010-05-26T12:08:00.002-04:00

From now until July 31, 2010, join ReForest London in the quest to find London's most amazing trees. The Amazing Tree Quest is a city-wide contest to celebrate the important role that trees play in our lives. London is proud to be the Forest City, and our city is full of amazing trees. The contest allows individual Londoners (or anyone from anywhere) to nominate trees located in London, Ontario.

Do you have a favourite tree in London? A tree that towers above the rest, survives against the odds, tells a great story? London's Amazing Tree Quest is for everyone of all ages. You can nominate your amazing trees in one of 8 categories, so be sure to have your camera ready when outdoors this spring and summer. There are two new amazing categories this year to take your tree quest to work for Best Company Tree, and for all those who like to be artistic Tree Inspired Art.

To nominate your amazing tree, and vote for others please visit http://www.reforestlondon.ca/londons-amazing-tree-quest

Learn more about the Amazing Tree Quest by viewing this 5-minute video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFcYMkCDFos.

ecoLIVING London... an early introduction

2010-04-26T19:13:00.012-04:00

We were just too excited to wait!

While the launch date of our website and green business directory is scheduled for June 1st, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to introduce ourselves at a few events surrounding Earth Day (Think Global, Act Local and Car Free Sunday). Click on the title of this posting to see a few more pics and then pencil in GreenDrinks June 15th for a full introduction (www.ecolivinglondon.org).

(Thank you to Leslie, Sophie, Holly, Trae, Nathan, Mike and Tim for volunteering to help me greet the crowd). :)

May: Events Around the City

2010-04-26T19:00:00.024-04:00

Sat May 1st 9:30-12pm
Nature London Bird Walks. SPRINGTIME AT CEDARCROFT. Spend a morning enjoying Cedarcroft, Nature London’s 11-ha nature reserve. There will be jobs available for members of all ages, plus time to look for birds and spring wildflowers. Members should see the latest flight of The Cardinal for more information.

Sat May 1st 8-2pm
Compost Value Day FUNDRAISER
30 Litres of Compost for $2 - - - While Supplies Last! Bring a Container and Shovel Locations:
1. Amway Global, 375 Exeter Road at White Oak Road
2. Masonville Mall (behind Nash Jewellers)
3. Try Recycling, enter off Medway,east of Clarke Rd.
4. Try Recycling, Dingman Drive, west of Wellington Road

Sat May 1st - 31st
ROOT FUNDAMENTALS: From the Ground Up Youth Art Show PRINTS, PAINTINGS, COLLAGE, PHOTOGRAPHY, SCULPTURE, DRAWINGS, CARDS AND MORE
Root Fundamentals youth group has come together to create tree and nature focused art. We are selling our artwork to donate 100% of the funds raised to Reforest London, to enable the non-profit organization to plant trees in the city of London. We hope that the art show will bring people from all walks of life to view and consider our art, and to educate them of the issue of deforestation.
WHERE: The London Fine Art Centre, 124 Dundas Street
COST: FREE TO ATTEND SHOW, ART WILL BE FOR SALE
WHEN: Art show on display May 1st - 31st, 2010

Sun May 2nd 2:00pm
WALK: Wortley Village Chimney Swifts
This walk offers a visual tour of chimneys in Wortley Village, London, discussing features that make certain chimneys attractive to Chimney Swifts. Chimneys in which swifts were resident in the summer of 2009 will be pointed out and, with luck, swifts newly arrived from the Amazon basin will be seen and heard. The walk takes place on Sunday, May 2, at 2 pm, starting at the Landon Library, 167 Wortley Road. It will be led by Winifred Wake, and last about one hour. The walk is one of a number of “Jane’s walks” being held in cities around the world, on the first week-end of May, to honour Jane Jacobs, renowned expert on liveable cities. More information on local walks can be obtained at http://janeswalklondon.com/.

Sun May 2nd 1:30pm and 2:30
WALK: Museum London’s - The River Walk.
Travel the forks of the Thames River on this 60-minute walking tour. You’ll learn about what was here, what is here and what might be here.

Sun May 2nd 1:30pm and 2:30pm
WALK: Museum London’s - From Castles to Cottages.
This nearly 90-minute walk will take you through the Talbot Street, Ridout Street area of the downtown. You’ll be introduced to historical buildings, current residential uses, businesses and part of the development history of the city. Visit Eldon House, London’s oldest permanent residence on the way.

Sun May 2nd 1:00pm
WALK: An Abbey, A Castle and A Crystal Ball. An introduction to SoHo, this walk will offer a glimpse of some of SoHo’s intriguing architecture and interesting characters from the past, while examining some of the challenges facing this downtown neighborhood (south of the tracks). Meeting Place: Christ Anglican Church, (across from the bright red Antiquities building) on the northeast corner of Wellington and Hill. Contact Alice Gibb (Tour Guide) at alicegibb@execulink.com

Sun May 2nd 1:30pm
WALK: Old East Village.
Long neglected and subject to stigmatization, this walk will explore how neighbourhood engagement can lead to positive change and urban renewal. East of Adelaide (EOA), long thought of as the natural home of the street-level sex and drug trade, and in decline for much of the past generation is now witnessing a remarkable renaissance. This walk will chronicle the natural ebb and flow of inner-city vitality, the role of local politics in both neighbourhood decline and revitalization, and how urban revitalization can only occur with the mobilization of local residents to provide an authentic and place-centred vision for the future. We will explore voth the residential neighbourhood and its commercial corridor, examine the relationship of each to the other, see the importance of heritage preservation as a tool of social and economic change, and discuss the potential challenges to long-term residents of urban gentrification. Meeting Place: Confederation Building, Western Fair - Dundas & Ontario Sts. Contact Greg Thompson (Tour Guide) at mwgang@gmail.com for more information.

Sun May 2nd 2:00pm
WALK: Medway Valley Heritage Forest.
This is a short work through parts of one of London’s Environmentally Significant Areas, Medway Valley Heritage Forest. Meeting Place: entrance to Medway Valley next to the Precious Blood Monastery, Ramsey Road and Kininvie Drive. Contact Sandy Levin at s.levin@sympatico.ca for more info.

Sun May 2nd 2-5pm
Sustainable Homestead Tour (48 Strachan St. in Port Burwell)
This will be an extensive tour of the facilities which include off grid living with solar cells and a windmill, solar water heaters, solar air heaters, below ground greenhouse, root cellar, gardens, fruit trees, oil expelling, biodiesel making, biodiesel heater, double wall construction home, composting system, rain water catchment, and much more. This will take most of the afternoon. For reservations please review the web site before registering at http://www.continuo.com/. $5 donation.

Tues May 4th 6:30 pm
FILM SCREENING: Food Matters
Food Matters, which uncovers the trillion dollar worldwide Sickness Industry, and explains a growing body of scientific evidence proving that nutritional therapy can be more effective, more economical, less harmful and less invasive than most conventional medical treatments. Introduction and Q&A hosted by Richard Vuksinic, ND. Location: Central Library, Wolf Performance Hall

Wed May 5th 6:30 pm
Nature London Bird Walks. MEADOWLILY WOODS ESA.
Spring and birding go together at Meadowlily Woods Environmentally Significant Area. Meet at Park Farm gate, 120 Meadowlily Road (first road east of Highbury Avenue, north from Commissioners Road).

Thurs May 6th 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Building green: two new sites for London.
What does it take to get gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the Canada Green Building Council? Cornerstone Architecture will talk about the new North London branch library on Sunningdale Road. The University of Western Ontario will talk about the new Ivey Business School building on Western Road. Q&A to follow. Location: Masonville Library

Fri May 7th 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Pollinator Gardening. Master Gardener, Ron Rossini will give a presentation that will help you determine what you can do to attract pollinator insects to your garden. Focus on pollinators and suggested plantings, as well as other natural ways to encourage pollinators. Location: Lee Valley Tools, 2100 Oxford St. East, London. Register through Lee Valley. Most sessions are $20.00.

Fri May 7th - Sun May 9th
Birds, Bikes and Books Eco-adventure returns to Pelee Island
Held by Explore Pelee, the weekend includes “an adventure tourism bird race by bicycle on a secluded island and observing rare migratory birds with expert birders,” said Anne Marie Fortner from the eco-tourism company.

As well, there will be “an intimate dinner banquet” at the Pelee Island Winery with authors Graeme Gibson and Brian Brett, and artist Robert Bateman.

The package includes an island and museum tour, bicycle rental, catered meals, wine demonstration and accommodations. It’s held in conjunction with the Pelee Island Heritage Centre’s Spring Song: A Celebration of Birds and Birding event and the Botham Cup Bird Race.

For more information visit explorepelee.com or call 519-325-TOUR (8687).

Sat May 8th 9:30-1:30pm
NATIVE PLANT SALE! You will find a selection of NATIVE PLANTS, SHRUBS AND TREES from local growers. This is a fundraiser for the school yard naturalizing project with London Waldorf School. Location: front of Landon Library 167 Wortley Rd. London, ON. Contact Alison Sims: sims.alison@gmail.com for more info.

Sat May 8th 11-2pm
Sitting Tree School and Nature Programs OPEN HOUSE
Come out and learn about our Summer Camps and Nature-Based Elementary School Program! There will be activities for the whole family! Located at the Westminster Ponds ESA, behind Parkwood Hospital. Visit www.sittingtree.ca for more information.

Sat May 8 to Wed May 12
Forest Gardening: Ecologically Intelligent Design for Human Living.
In this workshop we inform and engage you in creating ecologically sustainable sanctuaries for human living and planetary sustainability. You will learn how to apply practical Forest Gardening design to a diversity of landscapes with a focus on dense urban environments and temperate regions. Learn how to grow your own food no matter how big or small your backyard is. Design your own property, and learn how to 'be a part of the solution' using forest gardening principles. Passionate, long-time gardeners, herbalist and permaculture guides, Shantree Kacera D.N., Ph.D. and Lorenna Bousquet-Kacera, invite you to discover this remarkable model for creating gardens that support oneself and the Earth. This is a hands-on-experiential training in ecosystem structure and function, and in landscape understanding. It will show you how you can achieve the same benefits that natural systems demonstrate: stability, resilience, self-maintenance, self-renewal, increased soil quality, and nutrient conservation. For more information: Contact Lorenna & Shantree Kacera, D.N., Ph.D at www.thelivingcentre.com. To accommodate individual needs a person can attend our teachings as a One-Day or Two-Day Workshop or as a Three-Day Training)

Sat May 8th 10-4pm
Handmade Festival. The Library is proud to cosponsor the First Annual Handmade Festival. After a series of free workshops dedicated to sharing the art of craft and the cottage industry leading up to this event, this one day Festival will allow selected crafters to display their art and craft for the public. For more information please contact Central Library 1st Floor Passageway

Sun May 9th
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

Sun May 9th 1:00 pm
4th Annual Mothers' Day Hike (Hosted by the Thames Talbot Land Trust). In what has become a popular spring ritual the Stewards of Joany's Woods will again offer guided tours on Sunday May 9th. There will be a tour to suit all ages and enthusiasms. We usually can enjoy a spectacular display of the ephemeral spring flowers. Meet at the Boothill entrance at 1:00 PM. There will be signs from Elginfield Rd (old Hay 7) and Sylvan Rd. All are welcome.

Sun May 9th 10:30am – 12:30pm
London Photo Walks – University of Western Ontario.
London Photo Walks have been holding monthly photo walks since 2009, and we encourage you to join us this May. The next London Photo Walks is scheduled to take place at the University of Western Ontario (UWO). Although this walk will take place after most students have left the campus, this Sunday morning walk in May will prove to be a beautiful one with the flowers and plants hopefully in full bloom. Taking this into consideration that our walk falls on Mother’s Day, we encourage everyone who wants to come out to bring their mother to enjoy the great weather and beautiful scenery. This walk will be taking place in conjunction with PodCamp London 2010 which is happening the day before on May 8th 2010. Meeting Place: The Concrete Beach - 1393 Western Road. Contact Kevin Van Lierop at vanlierop.kevin@gmail.com for more info.

Mon May 10th 7-8:30pm
COMMUNITY MEETING: London Community Gardens (Business Plan Focus Groups)
Location: North London Optimist Community Centre, Room 1, 1345 Cheapside Street
It is critical to promote and sustain London’s community garden program and the benefits the city and its residents reap from the gardens. Accordingly, the City of London commissioned Pathways Consulting Group Inc. to conduct a detailed review of London’s Community Gardens program. The four month process includes: conducting a review of the existing program, highlighting the strengths and limitations and understanding the opportunities. Based on the information gathered, the Consultants will make recommendations for the future of London Community Gardens to the City in May 2010.

Over the next two weeks we have scheduled several focus groups. Each focus group will be led by Heather Macpherson of Pathways Consulting. A focus group is a type of a meeting where we ask participants a series of open ended questions and record the feedback and answers of participants. The information is then organized into key trends and findings and utilized to prepare the final report.

If you have any questions contact Heather Macpherson via email: heather@pathwaysconsulting.com. We look forward to hearing your valuable feedback at an upcoming focus group.

Mon May 10th 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
FILM SCREENING: The Garden
The fourteen-acre community garden at 41st and Alameda in South Central Los Angeles is the largest of its kind in the United States. Started as a form of healing after the devastating L.A. riots in 1992, the South Central Farmers have since created a miracle in one of the country’s most blighted neighborhoods. Growing their own food. Feeding their families. Creating a community. But now, bulldozers are poised to level their 14-acre oasis. The Garden follows the plight of the farmers, from the tilled soil of this urban farm to the polished marble of City Hall. Mostly immigrants from Latin America, from countries where they feared for their lives if they were to speak out, we watch them organize, fight back, and demand answers. Location: Central 1st Floor, Wolf Performance Hall

Wed May 12th 6:30 pm
Nature London Bird Walks. ELSIE PERRIN WILLIAMS ESTATE.
Join us for a pleasant stroll through the Medway Valley. Scarlet Tanager, Golden Alexander and Six-spotted Tiger Beetle were spotted last year. Meet at the parking lot of the Estate, 101 Windermere Road (west of Western Road).

Wed May 12th 7:00-8:00 PM
The Contained Garden Master.
Gardener Nancy Abra will present: The Contained Garden. Master Gardener presents ways to create attractive container gardens for balconies, patios, and other small spaces. Free admission. All welcome at the Jalna Branch of the London Public Library

Wed May 12th 7:00pm
Attracting Birds to Your Yard.
Master Gardener Ron Rossini and Mychelle Primeau will present - Attracting Birds to Your Yard. This will focus on the many different kinds of birds in our area and how gardeners can develop the proper conditions to welcome them to their gardens. Will highlight individual birds and their needs. Free admission. All welcome. Mount Brydges Library

Wed May 12th 8:00pm
Thames Regional Anglers Association General Meeting.
Guest Speaker Jim Reeve will be our guest speaker for this evening. Jim is the drainage superintendent for Middlesex Centre and he will be sharing some insight from a drainage engineers perspective on the proposed Komoka Creek project and where it stands today. Jim also has over 35 years of experience and he should prove to be very informative. The meeting starts at 8:00 p.m. sharp so make sure you are there on time. Springbank Dam Update. The year 2 post construction monitoring report has officially been released to the general public today. If you go to www.clear.london.ca and click on Thames River (2 indicators) and you can view the entire report. Based on what is in it, I'd say the City of London is in for an even longer battle. It was a lively topic for discussion at the February meeting and the TRAA is going to keep the pressure on and monitor the situation closely. Keep up the good work with the letters to the editor in the Free Press. The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters has started a new petition directed at London City Council to decommission the Dam once and for all. It will be available for signature at the general meeting.

Wed May 12th 7- 9pm
Nutritional Approach to Mental Health: Orthomolecular Therapy.
The first presentation offers a basic introduction to Orthomolecular Medicine, an approach that uses diet and supplementation to address nutritional deficiencies that may cause mental illness such as schizophrenia and anxiety. A screening of the 15 minute highlights of the ISF's documentary Masks of Madness, featuring practitioners and patients using this therapy, will follow. The second presentation will look at the specific nutritional deficiencies related to depression and anxiety, and how nutritional therapy could improve symptoms, under the guidance of a health practitioner. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt (A+B)

Thurs May 13th 7- 9pm
Resilient London 2030: Exploring the Transition Model.
Transition London is part of a vibrant, international grassroots movement that builds resilient communities in response to the challenges of peak oil, climate change and the economic crisis. Join us for a presentation and Q&A, followed by a discussion of the things that will affect our lives in the future; neighbourhood networks; strategic questions; and next steps. This introduction to Transition Towns Culture is an open space, participatory experience event. Together we can make the transition to a more fulfilling, equitable and sustainable world. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B

Fri May 14th 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
How to have the Best Herb and Vegetable Garden Ever.
Ron Rossini will speak on growing herbs and vegetables from seed to harvest. This topic will include growing hints, common problems, pests, as well as maintenance and conditions needed for the best plants ever! Location: Lee Valley Tools, 2100 Oxford St. East, London. Register through Lee Valley. Most sessions are $20.00.

Sat May 15th 8:30 am
GO Dutch GO Green GO Bike FUNDRAISER
Join us on Saturday May 15, 2010 for our 2nd Annual GoGreenGoDutchGoBike event!
There are two tours: the short (25 km return) and the long (45 km return). Both begin at the Dutch Canadian Society Hall and make a stop at the Cenotaph and Carillon in Victoria Park. Refreshments provided. Lunch with Veterans available with ticket. Contest for best decorated bicycle and costume! Please register http://gogreengodutchgobike.wufoo.com/forms/q7x3k1/ and bring payment with you day of event! Cost: $10/person ($30 for family up to 5 persons); $5/child 12 years and under. Tickets for lunch ($10/person) with the Veterans must be pre-purchased. Funds raised go toward purchasing bicycles for the Boys and Girls Club of London!
AGENDA:
8:30 a.m.: Family bike ride starts at Dutch-Canadian Hall, 1738 Gore Rd.
10:30 a.m.: Gather at Cenotaph at Victoria Park
11 a.m.: Wreath-laying, band plays O Canada and Carillon plays Het Wilhelmus (Dutch anthem) as veterans parade.
11:30 a.m.: Amabile Choir, Klompen Dancers perform.
12:30 p.m.: Dutch-Canadian Hall lunch, concert, social.

Sat May 15th 9:30-11:30am
Spring Plant Exchange at your local library branch.
Calling all gardeners! Bring in your extra cuttings, bulbs and plants to exchange with other gardeners. Please label plants. Please make sure that your plants are in leakproof containers. Locations: Sherwood Meeting Room A, Cherryhill Sam Katz Room, Crouch (General Space). Please contact your local branch to confirm times.

Sat May 15th 9:30-11:30am
Plant a Seed for Spring! Drop in and plant a seed to celebrate Spring. Visit the Sherwood Spring Plant exchange at the same time! Sherwood Community Room

Sun May 16th 2-5pm
Sustainable Homestead Tour (48 Strachan St. in Port Burwell)
This will be an extensive tour of the facilities which include Off grid living with solar cells and a windmill, solar water heaters, Solar air heaters, below ground greenhouse, root cellar, Gardens, fruit trees, Oil expelling, biodiesel making, Biodiesel heater, Double wall construction home, composting system, rain water catchment, and much more. This will take most of the afternoon. For reservations please review the web site before registering at http://www.continuo.com/. $5 donation.

Tues May 18th 7pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Summer on the Patio... No speaker, just drinks and good conversation. Venue: Morriseey House, Dundas Street, between Waterloo & Colborne

Wed May 19th – Fri May 21st
The London-Middlesex Children's Water Festival.
The goal of the London-Middlesex Children's Water Festival is to provide a hands-on learning environment for students in grades 3 to 5 from London and surrounding areas to discover the importance of water in their lives and communities. Over 3,000 grade 3-5 students from across London and Middlesex and surrounding areas will participate in the London-Middlesex Children's Water Festival at Fanshawe Conservation Area and Fanshawe Pioneer Village. The students, their teachers and parent volunteers will learn all about water – how to protect it, people’s attitudes towards it, and technology and science that focus on it. Maintaining the quality and quantity of our groundwater and surface water is vital for the future development of our communities and for the heath and enjoyment of the residents. Educating youth about water and the environment is the perfect way to start doing this. Get involved and contribute to the environmental education of our youth: For more information about the Festival, please contact the Festival Coordinator: Linda Smith at smithl@thamesriver.on.ca.

Wed May 19th 6- 9:30 p.m._
Smart Moves London 2030 Transportation Master Plan Public Meeting
Public Workshop #2
Come join us at our second public workshop to provide your input into London’s Transportation Master Plan. This meeting will allow you to review various options and to provide your comments. City staff and the Consultant team will be available to discuss different directions and to engage feedback. Your feedback will be used to help develop the future vision for transportation in London. Location: London Convention Centre, Salon A & B - Open house: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Workshop: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 19, 6:30 p.m.
Nature London: Komoka Provincial Park
Take Oxford Street west and then turn onto Glendon Drive. Opposite the Brigham Road intersection, turn right and meet the leader in the parking lot. Spring flowers and migrating birds will be viewed. The terrain is hilly. Free. Participants must provide own transportation.

Sat May 22nd 10-12pm
Spring Plant Exchange at your local library branch.
Calling all gardeners! Bring in your extra cuttings, bulbs and plants to exchange with other gardeners. Please label plants. Please make sure that your plants are in leakproof containers. Participating locations: Masonville Outdoors, Jalna (General Space), Pond Mills Meeting Room A&B. Please contact your local branch to confirm times.

Sat May 22nd 2pm - 4pm
Earth Magic! A workshop for 4-10 year olds Celebrate the Earth by learning about organic gardening! Attendees will learn about the amazing cycle of growth from seed to compost. While learning, kids will make a seed ball to bring home and meet some composting worms. Register with the library online, in person. Jalna branch of the London Public Library.

Sat May 22nd 12-1:30pm
Learn, Define, Act – Climate Justice
Climate Justice London will provide a description of the emerging idea of climate justice, followed by group discussion of its definition and strategies to achieve it. The event will conclude with a friendly, optional action to confront the climate crisis. Meet at the splash pad near the Fork of the Thames. If it is raining, meet in the nearby Forks Pavilion.

Wed May 26th 6:30 pm
Nature London Bird Walks - THE COVES ESA.
A member of the Friends of the Coves Subwatershed Inc. will show us some of the interesting spots in this Environmentally Significant Area (ESA). The meeting place will be at the Greenway Park parking lot. Turn north off Springbank Drive onto Greenside Ave (it’s also the Greenway Pollution Control Plant entrance). The lot is on the right, just a few hundred metres from Springbank Dr.

Thurs May 27th 7-8pm
The Contained Garden. Master Gardener presents ways to create attractive container gardens for balconies, patios, and other small spaces. Lambeth Community Centre Seniors' Room

Sat May 29th 10am-1pm
Reforest London Tree Planting Event McKillop Park
We invite you to plant trees with us tomorrow, May 29, from 10am-1pm at McKillop Park. We apologize for the change in location from earlier announcements. With your help, we will plant 400 trees and shrubs at this park next to the Thames River. McKillop Park is located at the corner of Wonderland and Riverside. Parking is available off Riverside. Please bring a shovel and wear close-toed shoes and sun protection.

We will celebrate the commemorative trees purchased at Christmas 2009 at this event by reading the names of those who received trees as gifts at this event. Map

Sat May 29th 8pm
Reflections on our River Thames - a music and spoken word performance. The Thames - its history, its beauty, its ecosystem and its meaning. Through spoken word and music, a celebration of the river that defines London and the many ways that it touches our lives. Featuring guest artists and the world premiere of a new, specially commissioned choral work by London composer Jeff Smallman Location: Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin St.

Sat May 29th 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Spring Plant Exchange at your local library branch.
Calling all gardeners! Bring in your extra cuttings, bulbs and plants to exchange with other gardeners. Please label plants. Please make sure that your plants are in leakproof containers. Landon (General Space) and Beacock Lobby 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Please contact your local branch to confirm times.

Sun May 30-June 6th
2010 Bicycle Festival
London's annual Bicycle Festival encourages Londoners to bike for transportation, fitness and fun. The Festival promotes events to educate people about bicycle safety and maintenance, local trails and tours. Various locations in London. Email Gosse at vango3771@gmail.com for more info.

The Dirty Dozen & The Clean Fifteen

2010-04-25T13:20:00.008-04:00

Richard Vuksinic, ND and Kristina Kastelanac, ND joined us on Tuesday to discuss naturopathic medicine as a model of healthcare that is philosophically rooted in principles that promote environmental consciousness, as they pertain to sustainability, accessibility and an interconnectedness with nature.

One of many great tools provided during their presentation was called the 'SHOPPER'S GUIDE TO PESTICIDES'. It is a guide designed to help you know which produce to buy organic, and which conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables are okay if organic isn't available. You can find the full listing at www.foodnews.org.

For help weaving this and other healthy living tips into your everyday lifestyle contact Richard & Kristina at www.lotuscentre.ca or www.enrichedrootsnaturopathy.com.
.

April: Events Around the City

2010-03-31T22:21:00.025-04:00

Thurs April 1st 9:30am - 4:30pm
All-Day Environmental Exposition - UCC Gymnasiums
Students in the first-year Environmental Issues course want to get the word out. They’ve been working hard on environmental investigations and projects that explore timely issues and technologies, and now it is time to go public with their important findings at the Day-long Environmental Exposition. The Environmental Expo will consist of 64 evocative presentations covering 25 topics that confront some of the difficult environmental concerns we face in today’s world, and will examine some of the technological advances used for solutions. The presentations are the results of team members who have pooled their research, talents, resources and hours of collaborative work to create original commentaries on important and timely topics. Far-ranging and diverse topics will inspire, delight, provoke, challenge and inform.

For more information and a complete list of the 64 topics contact Natasha Patrito Hannon, PhD, at npatrit@uwo.ca.

Sat April 3rd 9-5pm and running all month
How Green Are You?
Help our community grow as we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day! Tell us what your family is doing to be green by writing your ideas on a special "leaf" for "Masonville's Green Tree". Learn what others are doing, try out some new ideas and help our community lead the green wave. Where: Masonville Mall

Sat April 3rd 9-10am running every Sat in April
'Zero Footprint - Human Power' - A free neighbourhood walk and social event for adults
Description: Aim to leave a zero footprint while improving your fitness level and strengthening your neighbourhood. On Saturdays, walk to Crouch for a 9am group hike and return to the library for a social at 10am. Refreshments provided. Crouch Cornerstone Community Meeting Room

Wed April 7th 4:30-6pm
The Geography of Hope: A Tour of the World We Need
Author, journalist, environmentalist and sustainability expert, Chris Turner went on a global mission to find the answer to this question: "Would this - this place, this machine, this social system or way of life - be capable of continuing on its present course for the foreseeable future without exhausting the planet's ability to sustain human life at something like the current population and quality of life?"

The result of his year-long investigation is a survey of global sustainable practices and the lessons to be learned. The Geography of Hope breathes new life into our planet’s future and offers a patchwork map of available solutions to the potential threat of catastrophic climate change. Turner makes an argument for a new environmentalism that replaces fear with exuberance. His is the voice of hope in a chorus of recriminations and doom.

Everyone is welcome. For further information contact cleggett@uwo.ca

Thurs April 8th 7pm
Thames Talbot Land Trust - Annual General Meeting
Thames Talbot Land Trust is marking the tenth anniversary of our incorporation in 2010. Please join us for our AGM on Thursday, April 8th at the Stoneridge Inn on Col. Talbot Road at the 401. Doors open for displays and registration at 7:00 PM with the meeting getting under way at 7:30 PM. This year our guest speaker will be Clint Jacobs of the Walpole Island Land Trust, which is Canada's first and only First Nations land trust. A fascinating and inspiring story.

Thurs April 8th 6:30-8:30pm (Video from 8:30 to 9:00pm)
Sustainable Transportation Roundtable - London Convention Centre
Please mark your calendar for the next meeting of the Sustainable Transportation Roundtable (STR) as part of the 2030 Transportation Master Plan – Smart Moves (www.london.ca/smartmoves). Please note that if you cannot attend this meeting, there will be several more including May 13, 2010. The Smart Moves Project Team has a desire to establish a number of working groups to help further the dialogue in a number of specific areas over the next 8 months. Please confirm your attendance for April 8 asap, by emailing Robin Pyluta at rpyluta@london.ca.

Sat April 10th 10-4pm
Think Global Act Local Forum - Greening Our Community
The purpose and focus of this event is to inform and inspire each of us to conserve energy, save money, explore energy alternatives, and become more aware of what local organizations are doing to address environmental concerns. As an exhibitor your organization will have a high profile venue to showcase your energy conservation and/or sustainable development initiatives. Where: White Oaks Mall.

Sat April 10th 10-4pm
The Great Community Health Tune-up
Learn about the health services in your community. Get tips on how to live a healthy lifestyle, hear speakers on a wide range of topics that impact your health and that of your community. This is a free event. Where: Western Fair Grounds, Special Events Building.

Sat April 10th 1-4pm
Birdhouse Workshop
Time to give our nesting fine feathered friends a nice home for the summer. Come and make a house with us. We have the tools, all you need is a 6" wide x 4' long x 1" thick board (we suggest cedar or pine) and whatever non-toxic paint or other decorative do-dads you want to use to embellish your birdie's new abode. Where: The Briscoe Café, 325 Wharncliffe Rd. S.

Sat April 10th 12-4pm
Work Day! with Thames Talbot Land Trust (Newport Forest)
Take this opportunity to get together and have some fun with other members of the Thames Talbot Land Trust and their families and do some practical, hands-on conservation. Bring your own lunch and water. Dress for the weather conditions and the work: you will need strong shoes or boots, work gloves, and long pants. WORK: Trail grooming and maintenance, boundary-marking and shrub removal. Bring loppers and a brush saw if you can. For more information contact Jane Bowles at jbowles@uwo.ca

Sat Apr 10 to Mon Apr 12
Forest Gardening: Ecologically Intelligent Design for Human Living
In this workshop we inform and engage you in creating ecologically sustainable sanctuaries for human living and planetary sustainability. You will learn how to apply practical Forest Garden design to a diversity of landscapes, with a focus on dense urban environments and temperate regions. Learn how to grow your own food no matter the size of your backyard. Design your own property, and learn how to 'be a part of the solution' using forest gardening principles. This is a hands-on-experiential training in ecosystem structure and function, and in landscape understanding. It will show you how you can achieve the same benefits that natural systems demonstrate: stability, resilience, self-maintenance, self-renewal, increased soil quality, and nutrient conservation. (To accommodate individual needs a person can attend our teachings as a One-Day or Two-Day Workshop or as a Three-Day Training)

Presenters: Passionate, long-time gardeners, herbalists and eco-spiritual guides, Shantree Kacera D.N., Ph.D. and Lorenna Bousquet-Kacera, invite you to discover this remarkable model for creating gardens that support oneself and the Earth. For more information visit http://www.thelivingcentre.com or phone 519-652-9109.

Sun April 11th 12-4pm
Car Free Sunday - We're Not Fuelin' Around - Downtown Street Festival
Bring your whole family and join us Sunday, April 11 for London's first Car Free Sunday! We're closing Dundas Street from Ridout to Wellington Street and hosting a street festival of free family fun - Car Free! See the latest cool new cycling gear and EBikes, watch yoga demonstrations and take in all of the other activities.

Car Free Sunday starts at 12:00 noon, with the Opening Ceremony at 1 p.m. on the Main Stage. The fun continues all afternoon until 4 p.m. See you there! For more info visit http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Transportation/car_free_sunday.htm.

Tues April 13th 7pm
Master Gardener Ron Rossini will present: The best vegetable garden ever and you don’t even have to plant broccoli! Komoka Library (a branch of Middlesex County Library) located in the Community Centre, 133 Queen Street, Komoka ON. Free admission. All welcome.

April 16 to April 25
Toonies for Trees - Earth Week. Make It Count.
Get your toonies out to help ReForest London plant trees in the City of London and raise awareness with Londoners of our spring and fall tree planting activities for 2010. Earth Week, April 16th to April 25th, make it count by making a $2 donation at a retail store near you to help keep the forest in the Forest City. ***For a full list of participating retail stores for Toonies for Trees and locations please visit http://www.reforestlondon.ca/toonies-trees-0

When visiting your local garden centre this spring and summer you can also make a $2 donation, as the Independent Garden Centres of London have joined together to participate in Toonies for Trees from April 16th to June 30th.

Fri April 16th 2 p.m.
20 Minute London Makeover
In 2006, a new initiative called the 20 Minute London Makeover was launched to allow the business community to demonstrate the pride outside of their buildings and into their corporate neighbourhoods. It was a great success. In 2009, the response to action was even more impressive. In four years, the event has grown to include more than 150 businesses, schools and government locations. Collectively, these groups endeavored to clean up their business or school environment.

Fri April 16th 6:30 - 8:30 pm
How to have the Best Herb and Vegetable Garden Ever
Master Gardeners Ron Rossini and Jennifer Grant will speak on growing herbs and vegetables from seed to harvest. This topic will include growing hints, common problems, pests, as well as maintenance and conditions needed for the best plants ever! All sessions are held at Lee Valley Tools, 2100 Oxford St., East London. You may attend the entire series or just a few, but you must pre register through Lee Valley at 519-659-7981. Most sessions are $20.00.

Sat April 17th
London Clean & Green 2010
Join us for the 15th Annual London Clean & Green Community Clean Up Day. Volunteers will be cleaning up litter and removed graffiti all over the city. Volunteers include formal and informal neighbourhood groups, condominium boards, employee groups, business improvement associations, families and individual citizens. Secondary students can volunteer & earn hours towards their Community Involvement Activity requirement. Take part in the Ontario Youth Volunteer Challenge - ChangeTheWorld 2010! Visit Pillar Nonprofit Network for more details and to take a peek at some volunteer photos.

Sat April 17th 11-3pm
Work Day! with Thames Talbot Land Trust (Joany's Woods)
Take this opportunity to get together and have some fun with other members of the Thames Talbot Land Trust and their families and do some practical, hands-on conservation. Bring your own lunch and water. Dress for the weather conditions and the work: you will need strong shoes or boots, work gloves, and long pants. WORK: Trail grooming and maintenance, boundary-marking and shrub removal. Bring loppers and a brush saw if you can. For more information contact Jane Bowles at 519-461-1932 or via e-mail at jbowles@uwo.ca

Sat April 17th-19th
Living the Solution ~ The Sevenfold Path of Peace (April 17 - 19)
Empower Yourself and Be the Change that Changes Everything
There is a powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed, can make any vision and dream into a reality. Take back your power, live disease-free, support the environment, and be the Artist of Your Life. A uniquely crafted study path, Living the Solution teaches you the seven proven steps to transform yourself - so you can transform the world! Living the Solution invites a renaissance in human thought, values and action. This Sevenfold Path offers transformational practices and philosophies that will support you in living a conscious, happy and purpose-filled lifestyle. For more information visit http://www.thelivingcentre.com or phone 519-652-9109.

Sun April 18th 7- 8:30pm
Green Initiatives for Londoners - Speaker: Jay Stanford, City of London
Green First St Andrews in conjunction with the City of London "Clean and Green Initiative”, present a week of green events. Where: First St Andrews Church, Proudfoot Hall, 350 Queens Avenue London, ON N6B 1X6. For more information call (519) 679-8182

Sunday April 18th
Earth Day London
Join us at Watson Street Park to help with environmental restoration of a section of the Thames Valley Corridor within the City of London. Huge Tree Planting Festival. Community Organization Exhibits. Watson Street Park is located on Wellington Road, just south of the Thames River. Watch for the Earth Day signs. Parking is available along South Street on both sides of the street, and at the end of Watson Street. For more information call (519) 451-2800 or email sauders@thamesriver.on.ca or visit www.thamesriver.on.ca

Sun April 18th 1-4pm
GREENHOUSE TOUR - Civic Garden Complex
Each year we open the greenhouses and the entire complex to the public for one day. Visitors will be split into small groups and taken on a guided tour of the entire complex. Your guide will explain all the workings of the Conservatory and the Greenhouses. See the flowers in bloom and various plants that will be planted into London’s city streets and parks. You will be able to purchase plants from the "Plants-to-go" cart in the lobby (Cash or Cheque only). Before or after your tour, see the displays, then go for a leisurely walk through the park and gardens. Walking/Biking Maps are available at the complex. It is a wonderful time for everyone to welcome Spring.

Mon April 19th 7:00PM
Film Screening: Dreamland
Cinema Politica London and the London Public Library are proud to present the critically acclaimed environmental documentary Dreamland. This is one of the best environmental films ever made. An incredibly moving, inspiring and fantastically political film that will make you want to be a better steward of this planet.

WHERE: Central Library, Stevenson and Hunt Room
COST: By donation at the door ($2-5 recommended)
INFO: www.cinemapolitica.org

SYNOPSIS: How much unspoiled nature should we preserve and what do we sacrifice for clean, renewable energy? Dreamland gradually turns into a disturbing picture of corporate power taking over small communities.

In Dreamland a nation with abundance of choices gradually becomes caught up in a plan to turn its wilderness and beautiful nature into a massive system of hydro-electric and geothermal power plants with dams and reservoirs. Clean energy brings in polluting industry and international corporations. It’s the dark side of green energy.

Tues April 20th 7pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Topic: Naturopathic Medicine
Join Richard Vuksinic, ND and Kristina Kastelanac, ND as they discuss naturopathic medicine as a model of healthcare that is philosophically rooted in principles that promote environmental consciousness, as they pertain to sustainability, accessibility and an interconnectedness with nature. Dr. Richard Vuksinic, ND will discuss the guiding principles of naturopathy and how they can effect our understanding of personal and environmental health. He will also touch on the sustainability and accessibility of herbal medicine. Dr. Kristina Kastelanac, ND will further illuminate the connections between environmental and individual health by exploring the connections between environmental toxins and their effects on the human endocrine system. Both Richard and Kristina are Naturopathic Doctors practicing in London, Ontario. Venue: The Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street (between Waterloo and Colborne)

Tuesday April 20th
Film Screening: "The Greening of Faith"
Green First St Andrews in conjunction with the City of London "Clean and Green Initiative”, present a week of green events. Where: First St Andrews Church, Proudfoot Hall, 350 Queens Avenue London, ON N6B 1X6. For more information call (519) 679-8182

Wed April 21st 6:30-7:15pm
Film Screening: "The Eco-Home"
Green First St Andrews in conjunction with the City of London "Clean and Green Initiative”, present a week of green events. Where: First St Andrews Church, Proudfoot Hall, 350 Queens Avenue London, ON N6B 1X6. For more information call (519) 679-8182

Wed April 21st 7pm
Ecological Gardening - - - Introduction to Permaculture
Where: Central Library, Stevenson & Hunt Room A
Cost: FREE

Wed April 21st 7-8:30pm
Vermi-composting Workshop or How to Compost with Red Wriggler Worms
Attendees will learn how to compost food scraps in small, indoor spaces with red wriggler worms. Vermicomposting is an excellent way to reduce your garbage. Learn how to set up and maintain a worm composting bin. Free admission. London Public Library's community programming. Location; Jalna Branch 1166 Commissioners Rd. E. You can register with the library online, in person or by phone 519-685-1333

Thurs April 22nd
HAPPY EARTHDAY from GREENDRINKS and ECOLIVING LONDON

Thurs April 22nd
Dress Down for Earth Day - ReForest London Fundraiser
Go Green at the office by organizing a Dress Down for Earth Day event at your office where staff can donate $2, $5 or $10 to dress down for the day. Funds raised during the event will go to ReForest London to help plant trees in the City of London.

Get your toonies out and plan for some friendly competition with other businesses in London! Let ReForest London know if your business plans to participate in Dress Down for Earth Day, and we will add your company and/or organizations name to our list on our website. We will then post and celebrate the business that raises the highest amount for Dress Down for Earth Day.

Please contact ReForest London to register your company or to learn more visit http://www.reforestlondon.ca/dress-down-earth-day-thursday-april-22nd.

Thurs April 22nd 7-8:30pm
Energy Conservation Tips and Innovations, presented by London Hydro
Receive a free conservation kit. Green First St Andrews in conjunction with the City of London "Clean and Green Initiative”, present a week of green events. Where: First St Andrews Church, Proudfoot Hall, 350 Queens Avenue London, ON N6B 1X6. For more information call (519) 679-8182

Fri April 23rd
Renewable Energy Expo
Featuring solar thermal, solar pv, geothermal talks and vendors. Green First St Andrews in conjunction with the City of London "Clean and Green Initiative”, present a week of green events. Where: First St Andrews Church, Proudfoot Hall, 350 Queens Avenue London, ON N6B 1X6. For more information call (519) 679-8182

Fri April 23rd 10:30-11:30am
Eco-Kids Craft (6 years and up)
Put the Earth first on ‘Kids First Day’. Join us in creating an earth-friendly craft project. Where: Landon Library, OSCO Community Meeting Room. Registration starts Apr 9th by telephone, online or in person.

Fri April 23rd 2:30-3:30pm
Earth Day Eggheads (6 years and up)
Put the Earth First on ‘Kids First Day’. Join us to create an earth-friendly "egghead" planter. Where: Landon Library, OSCO Community Meeting Room. Registration starts Apr 9th by telephone, online or in person.

Sat April 24th 8:30am-12:30pm
Tree Planting @ Veterans Memorial Parkway at Trafalgar (west side)
Join ReForest London and Scoutrees as we plant hundreds of trees and shrubs along Veterans Memorial Parkway, as part of a five year plan to beautify this London thoroughfare. 3M is hosting a BBQ at their facility following the planting. No weekend bus route. Follow the signs to parking and planting location. For more information contact Julie Ryan at 936-9548 or info@reforestlondon.ca

Sat April 24th
Annual Coves Clean Up. Please visit http://www.thecoves.ca/ for details.

Sat April 24th 2:30-3:30pm
Earth Day Fun! (5-12 yrs)
Learn tips on how we can make this earth a safe and healthy place to live, and create you own environmentally friendly recyclable craft to take home! Where: Crouch Library. Meeting Room 3

Sat April 24th 1-4pm
Work Day! with Thames Talbot Land Trust (Five Points Forest)
Take this opportunity to get together and have some fun with other members of the Thames Talbot Land Trust and their families and do some practical, hands-on conservation. Bring your own lunch and water. Dress for the weather conditions and the work: you will need strong shoes or boots, work gloves, and long pants. WORK: Garlic Mustard removal. Bring trowel and gloves, if you can. For more information contact Jane Bowles at 519-461-1932 or via e-mail at jbowles@uwo.ca

Tues April 27th 6:30-9:00pm
You Are What You Eat (Documentary film series)
The first of these fascinating films lifts the veil on the food industry, exposing how our food supply is controlled by a handful of corporations that put profits ahead of consumer health. The second uncovers the trillion dollar worldwide ‘Sickness Industry’, and explains a growing body of scientific evidence proving that nutritional therapy can be more effective, more economical, less harmful and less invasive than most conventional medical treatments. Find out what works, what doesn't, and what's killing you. Become informed about the choices you have, which could save your life. Where: Central Library, 1st Floor - Wolf Performance Hall

Wed April 28th 7-9pm
Ecological Gardening
The first presentation will focus on the food producing aspects of permaculture design, with an emphasis on perennial edible landscapes. Come and learn about: organic food production, recycling and waste management, soil rehabilitation and how to increase yield but decrease the effort and make gardening much easier then you ever imagined! In the second session you will learn how to establish a sustainable garden, a food forest - the most ecologically friendly way of gardening open to us, which can be tailored to fit any space, from a tiny backyard to a large country garden. This visual presentation will show you an edible food forest in transition to become ecologically established sustainable garden sanctuary. Where: Central Library, 1st Floor, Stevenson & Hunt Room B

Wed April 28th 7-9pm
Organic Garden Solutions Workshop - How to Cook Up Remedies in the Kitchen.
Master Gardener, Ron Rossini, will present ways of treating garden problems with organic and home remedies. He will also outline many major floral and vegetable garden concerns and how to treat many diseases and pests. No registration required. This workshop if part of the London Public Library's community programming. Location: Jalna Branch of the London Public Library, 1119 Jalna Ave.

Wed April 28th 7pm
Ecological Gardening - - - Establishing a Sustainable Garden
Where: Central Library, Stevenson & Hunt Room A
Cost: FREE

Sat April 28th 10 a.m.
ReForest London - Tree Planting in Glen Cairn
Join the Glen Cairn Community Resource Centre to plant trees and shrubs at this large apartment complex on King Edward Ave. You will be planting native trees and shrubs and mulching them. The work is fun and relatively easy, suitable for families and people of all ages. Bring a shovel or rake if you can, but we've also got plenty to share. Sturdy shoes and gardening gloves are also helpful to have. We'll have water to drink and people there to show you what to do. For more information contact Julie Ryan at 936-9548 or info@reforestlondon.ca

Wed April 28th 7-8pm
Organic Solutions
Master Gardener Ron Rossini at the Jalna Branch of the London Public Library. Free admission. All welcome

Wed April 28th 7:30p.m.
Nature London: Walk at Woodcocks on the Thames
Meet the leader at the east end of Windermere Road, east of Adelaide Street. Participants will be looking for migrant birds and hoping to see the extraordinary courtship display of the American Woodcock. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight. Call 519-642-3046, if more information is required. Free.

Fri April 30th 6:30-8:30pm
The Contained Garden
Jennifer Grant will share her master gardening expertise on growing beautiful flowers, herbs and vegetables in containers. Hands on demonstrations will help explain what soils to use, container styles, and what plants grow best together. A slide presentation will show samples from Canada and other countries Master Gardeners, Ron Rossini and Jennifer Grant offer talks on various gardening topics to help ease your winter blues! All sessions are held at Lee Valley Tools, 2100 Oxford St. East London. You may attend the entire series or just a few, but you must pre register through Lee Valley at 519-659-7981. Most sessions are $20.00.

London City Farm Cocktail Fundraiser

2010-03-26T11:02:00.003-04:00

Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday for the London City Farm "Happy Hour” cocktail fundraiser. Please view full photo album by clicking on the title of this post.

London City Farm is London's first urban agricultural farm located in the fields of Fanshawe Pioneer Village. LCFN grows heirloom and open pollinated - rare varieties of vegetables to support paid summer employment for at risk youth in our city. Vegetables are grown organically and sold at local markets and restaurants. London City Farm is a nonprofit organization.

March: Events Around the City

2010-03-01T23:41:00.009-05:00

Mon March 1st 2:30-3:30pm
National and International Issues of The Great Lakes
Jim Vollmershausen was with Parks Canada for a number of years and has been a senior manager with Environment Canada since 1986, where he has focused his efforts in the department’s regions; first in the Atlantic Region, then the Prairie and Northern Region and now the Ontario Region. When he came to the Ontario Region, he left the issues associated with the large rivers of Prairie and Northern Canada for the issues associated with Canada’s Great Lakes. This experience has ensured a significant involvement in the development of environmental and related water policies. Contact Professor Gordon McBean at 519-661-4274 or gmcbean@uwo.ca for more information. Location: Social Sciences Centre 9420 (9th Floor – Dean’s Office area)(Coffee and refreshments will be served after during a discussion session).

Tues March 2nd 8-3pm
Wind-Water-Sun Renewable Technologies
As a follow up to the 2009 Economic Summit, the LEDC is pleased to be hosting the inaugural Wind, Water and Sun conference in partnership with London Hydro and Miller Thomson to advance discussions regarding London’s Renewable Technology opportunities. London Convention Centre. For those interested in table-top booth space. $150 includes one free registration (DSL and electricity are available at an extra cost) Please call Heather Pilot at: 519.661.4957 or hpilot@ledc.com

Sat March 6th 10am
EARLY SPRING STROLL BY THE NORTH THAMES
The Thames in winter. Meet the leader in the parking lot at the back of the soccer fields, south of the Adelaide Street North bridge on the west side of Adelaide; the entrance to the parking area is at the traffic light at Kipps Lane and just north of the water treatment plant. We will walk along the river and into some woodland looking for birds and early signs of spring. Call 519-438-5879 for more information. Nature London

Wed March 10th 7-9pm
Gardening in the City - Community Gardens
A Gardening series covering a variety of earthy topics that will grow on you. London Community Resource Centre presentation on benefits of Community Gardens Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt (A+B)

Thurs March 11th 7pm
Ecopower Inc. presents 7th annual INFUSION Fashion Show - “Eden”
Join us as we create a paradise at the exciting and thrilling 7th annual INFUSION Fashion Show - “Eden” presented by Ecopower Inc. 7pm - London Music Hall - Tickets are $20/$25 at the door and are available at The Bookstore at Western, Books Plus or by emailing tickets@infusionfashion.com 185 Queen St London Music Hall COST:$20 TELEPHONE: (519) 280-8633 EMAIL: tickets@infusionfashion.com WEBSITE: www.infusionfashion.com

Fri March 12-14th
Creating a Culture of Nature Connection
Join us as Mark Morey of the Institute for Natural Learning speaks about the value of nature connection, and discusses various techniques to help create a culture of nature connection in your life, your home, and your community. For more information on the speaking tour, and on creating a culture of nature connection, see The Art of Mentoring at http://www.pineproject.org/programs/youth-programs/art-of-mentoring/ . Location: Cornerstone Clubhouse, 781 Richmond Street. Register at http://www.pineproject.org/Events/?event_id=9 . Suggested donation: $10.

Sat March 13th 10-3:30pm
Seedy Saturdays and Seedy Sundays
Seeds of Diversity Canada. Featuring a wide selection of seed vendors. Demonstrations and PowerPoint Presentations will be held throughout the day. Organized by the London Middlesex Master Gardeners at www.londonmiddlesexmastergardeners.com. Contact: Jennifer Grant jgrantplants@sympatico.ca or 519-652-2734. Venue: Siloam United Church, Rear Entrance. Admission is $5.00 per adult.

Sat March 13th – 20th 9-5pm
Eco-Challenge!
Take a fun environmental trip through your local Library this March Break! Between March 13 and 20, follow the clues and discover our secret "Green" password. Tell staff the password for a chance to win a "Green" Library Bag made from 100% natural hemp! London Library branches. Drop in at your local branch!

Mon March 15th 7-9pm
Film Screening: H2OIL a film about the Alberta tar sands.
Join us for a monthly film series of thought provoking and timely documentaries. Cinema Politica is a media arts, non-profit network of community and campus locals that screen independent political film and video by Canadian and international artists throughout Canada and abroad. Central Library, 1st Floor, Stevenson & Hunt (A+B), Admission: Free

Tues March 16th 8-4:30pm
Green Roof Workshop
Come and hear about how green roofs can reduce heating and air conditioning bills, reduce and clean stormwater run-off, and help make London a cooler place (and not just by reducing the urban heat island effect.) Whether you are an architect, engineer, building owner, developer, builder, renovator, or an interested citizen, this Green Roofs workshop will cover many topics of interest to you including: how to build a green roof, environmental benefits, costs and savings, how they handle our climate, Lessons learned, Examples in London, design challenges, engineering challenges , LEED Certification. Location: Civic Garden Complex at 625 Springbank Drive. $20 Registration Fee includes lunch, workshop. Doors open at 8:00 am, Workshop from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Pre-register to ensure your spot!

http://www.ledc.com/newsevents/events/event.php?event=148 or http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Rethink_Energy/green_roofs.htm

This workshop is sponsored by the City of London in partnership with the London Development Institute and the London Home Builders Association.

Tues March 16th 6:30pm arrivals, 7pm Speaker
GREENDRINKS LONDON: Light Rail Transit for London
Rails for London Kathyrn Nikota and Dean Tolton, graduates of the Integrated Land Planning Technologies program of Fanshawe College present their proposal for a Light Rail Transit System for London. Their research demonstrates how LRT systems create friendly, safe and exciting places to live. Our great-grandparents enjoyed three light rail systems in the early 20th century here in London. Streetcars were operated by the London Street Railway Co. The Southwestern Traction Line provided light rail service from it's depot on Horton St. to Pt. Stanley via Lambeth, Glanworth, & St. Thomas. The London and Port Stanley Railway, also based in the SoHo area and electrified by Sir Adam Beck, was the finest electric system in Canada. A display in the London Room of the Central Library created by London Historian Alice Gibb provides historical background on the Traction Line and the London &Port Stanley Railway. Bombardier of Canada is a leader in the field of Light Rail Transit, supplying train sets for use in LRT systems all over the world. We have the technology. Venue: Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street (downtown between Waterloo and Colborne).

Wed March 17th 6:30pm
Environmentalism and Elections in Canada: Assessing Recent Trends
Concern for the environment has grown around the world. Cameron Anderson, assistant professor of political science at Western, will explore the extent to which environmental concern is a left-right ideological issue in the minds of Canadians and assess the impact of environmentalism on the ways in which citizens view and vote for Canada's major political parties. Lecturer: Cameron Anderson
Assistant Professor, Political Science. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and classes
begin at 7:00 p.m. Location: Civic Garden Complex, 625 Springbank Drive.

Wed March 17th 7-9pm
Resilient London 2030: Exploring the Transition Model Description
Transition London is part of a vibrant, international grassroots movement that builds resilient communities in response to the challenges of peak oil, climate change and the economic crisis. Join us for a presentation and Q&A, followed by a discussion of the things that will affect our lives in the future; neighbourhood networks; strategic questions; and next steps. This introduction to Transition Towns Culture is an open space, participatory experience event. Together we can make the transition to a more fulfilling, equitable and sustainable world. Central Library, 1st Floor, Stevenson & Hunt Room B

Wed March 17th 7-9pm
Gardening in the City - Contained Gardens
Master Gardener Jennifer Grant will share her experience growing beautiful flowers, herbs and vegetables in containers. Hands on demonstrations will help explain what soils to use, container styles and what plants grow best together. A slide presentation will show examples from Canada and other countries. A gardening series covering a variety of earthy topics that will grow on you. Central Library, 1st Floor, Stevenson & Hunt Room A+B

Thurs March 18th 7pm
Creating Green and High Tech Jobs in a Changing Economy
The topic will be with a particular focus on green manufacturing, high tech, and research. Peter White from LEDC will be moderating, and confirmed panelists are Ted Hewitt, VP Research of UWO, Tim Carrie, Local 27 President of the CAW, Dr. David Hill of the Lawson Research Institute, and Fritz Scheidies of ARC Solar. This is a non-partisan town hall hosted by the federal Liberals in London. VENUE: Kinsmen Arena. All interested Londoners are invited!

Thurs March 18th 10am – 11pm
Pizza Box Solar Cooker
Harness the sun's energy and create your own pizza box solar cooker. Landon Library, Martha Bishop Community Room(children 8-12 years).

Fri March 19th 7:30 pm
VERNAL POOLS
Vernal pools are small wetlands that form in the spring and dry up by late summer or early autumn. These wet-dry cycles of vernal pools create a unique habitat type that supports only those species that can tolerate the variable hydrologic conditions. Scott Sampson, president of the Ontario Vernal Pool Association, will explain why conservation of vernal pools is critical to the protection of some species at risk and Ontario's biodiversity. Venue: Civic Garden Complex

Fri March 19th 2:30pm - 4:30pm
March Break Earth Magic (children 4-10 years)
Go Green this March Break by learning about organic gardening! We will learn about the amazing cycle of growth from seed to compost. While learning we will make a seed ball for kids to bring home and meet some composting worms. Landon Library, Martha Bishop Community Room

Wed March 24th 6:15pm
Our Environmental Destiny, Presented by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The University Students' Council is excited to announce the arrival of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at The University of Western Ontario. Mr. Kennedy will be speaking to University students, faculty, staff, and the London community on March 24, 2010. The address, entitled "Our Environmental Destiny," will highlight the role natural resources play in our work, our health , and our identity. “More than just an advocate for the environment, Kennedy is an architect and agent of change in our modern world,” says Dan Moulton, the University Students’ Council Vice-President University Affairs. “Mr. Kennedy’s message, as a leading advocate for the protection of our natural world, is a topic that will surely resonate with members of our action-driven Western community.” Tickets are now available for students ($15 plus tax) at InfoSource in the University Community Centre and on the USC website. A limited number of non-student tickets ($30 plus tax) will be available starting Feb. 25. The event will take place at Alumni Hall with doors opening at 6:15 p.m. and the speech commencing at 7:05 p.m. In addition to his dynamic address, Kennedy will partake in a question and answer period with the audience.

Wed March 24th 7-9pm
Gardening in the City
A Gardening series covering a variety of earthy topics that will grow on you. Topic: Garden Gates Open and Communities in Bloom. Central Library, 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt Room (A+B)

Thurs March 25th 4:30-6pm
Life After Growth: Why the Economy is Shrinking and What to Do About It
Presented by: Richard Heinberg and The Centre for Environment & Sustainability, UWO
Location: 3M Centre, Room 3250.

Richard Heinberg will discuss how the ongoing economic recession represents a fundamental break with recent history: growth has ceased and may never return in the same way, because energy and resource limits are increasingly constraining economic expansion. But families and communities may actually be better off in a sustainable, "steady-state" economy--one that values people and nature over high-rate financial returns.

Richard Heinberg is widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost Peak Oil educators.

A columnist for the Ecologist Magazine, he has also authored scores of essays and articles for such magazines and journals as: The American Prospect, Public Policy Research, Quarterly Review, Z Magazine, Resurgence, The Futurist, European Business Review, Earth Island Journal, Yes!, Pacific Ecologist, Wild Matters, The Proceedings of the Canadian Association of the Club of Rome, Canadian Dimension, Alternative Press Review, and The Sun. He appears regularly in film and television documentaries as a leading international expert in peak oil and contributes regularly to numerous websites.

For further information please contact: Catharine Leggett, Special Events Coordinator, Centre for Environment & Sustainability, 519 661 2111 x89060 or cleggett@uwo.ca

Thurs March 25th 5-8pm
COCKTAIL FUNDRAISER for the London City Farm
London City Farm Network cordially invites you to a "Happy Hour” cocktail fundraiser to support London's first urban agricultural farm located in the fields of Fanshawe Pioneer Village. LCFN grows heirloom and open pollinated - rare varieties of vegetables to support paid summer employment for at risk youth in our city. Vegetables are grown organically and sold at local markets and restaurants. London City Farm is a nonprofit organization.

HAPPY HOUR Cocktail Fundraiser
March 25th, 5-8 p.m.
Covent Garden Market (upstairs)
Tickets: $20.00 includes canapés from Garlic’s Restaurant
and Elite Catering By Design
Door Prizes, Silent Auction & Live Music!

Thurs March 25th 7-8:45pm
Organic Farming Forum
What exactly is organic food? Do you have questions about organic practices, certification and labeling? Join our panel of local, organic farmers who will tell us about the food they produce, their farming techniques and what it takes to be certified organic. Ann Slater is a market gardener who sells produce. Cathy McGregor-Smith and her husband operate McSmiths Organic Farm, a mixed farm with an on-farm market. Stewart Slater is a dairy farmer involved with the Organic Meadow Co-operative. Come meet the people who are keeping the small-scale, diversified farm alive using sustainable practices that maintain the health of their land, produce high quality food and contribute to the local economy. There will be time for questions after the discussion. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt (A+B)

Sat March 27th 10-3pm
Outdoor Discovery Day (3rd annual)
Join us for another free day of informative presentations and talks on Walking, Hiking and Trekking, aimed at promoting your health and safely enjoying the outdoors. Topics include: Presentations on hiking locally and around the World. Find out what equipment you need and how to choose it. Learn about your local hiking organizations. Join us for a one hour walk over lunchtime. Presented by: Thames Valley Trail Association, Elgin Hiking Club, Avon Hiking Club, Maitland Trail Assoc., Novacks, Healthy Living-Middlesex London and the London Public Library. Central Library, 1st Floor, Stevenson & Hunt Room (A+B)

Sat March 27th 6:30pm
The Third Annual Art of Eating – Museum London
Enjoy the opportunity to taste a delicious meal created in a local state of mind. As in the past two years, the Art of Eating is themed around a current exhibition: this year, the menu is based on A(l)ure of the Local, an exhibition that weaves the story of London ON together by featuring artifacts and historical, modern and contemporary art from our two collections: art and material culture. So, expect the menu to maximize all the wonderful local products and services in the London and Southwestern area. Again this year the menu is being designed by premier London chef Steve James and Jeff Warner, chef at On The Fork. Don’t miss this delicious opportunity to support Museum London’s 2010 historical exhibitions. Limited seating. Tickets $95/person or $950 for a table of 10. Ticket reservations welcome, email ckehoe@museumlondon.ca or telephone 519-661-0333 x4242.

Saturday March 27 6pm - close
Celebrate Earth Hour "In the Dark with The Dozens"
This talented acoustic blues duo from London have taken their soulful sound on the road across Canada and are excited to share Earth Hour with their eco-friendly home town folk. Where: East Village Coffeehouse, 785 Dundas St. E. just west of Rectory Cost: Free (donations appreciated)

Saturday March 27 6pm - close
Earth Hour Acoustic Open Mike
Join us for a cozy night of candlelight and acoustic song-sharing and poetry reading to celebrate Earth Hour. All are welcome to sign up for a stint of song, poetry and mirth. Where: The Briscoe Cafe, 325 Wharncliffe Rd. S., between Springbank and Commissioners

Sun March 28th 9-11am
Nature Walk: AYLMER WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
Meet the leader in front of the main viewing stand behind the Aylmer Police College to view Tundra Swans and other migrating waterfowl. We will then proceed to walk a paved trail to look for other early spring birds. If necessary, call 519-438-5879 for more details. Directions: exit the 401 at Imperial Road and head south to College Line. Turn left and continue to Hacienda Road. The Police College will be on your left. Take the second entrance to the Aylmer WMA. If necessary, call 519-438-5879 for more details.

Mon March 29th 2:30-
Climate Change and Water Issues in Ontario
Linda Mortsch is a senior researcher with Environment Canada and an adjunct at the University of Waterloo. Her research interests include assessing the effects of climate change on water resources in North America. She was Convening Lead Author for the North American Chapter of the IPCC 2007 Scientific Assessment. Contact Professor Gordon McBean at 519-661-4274 or gmcbean@uwo.ca for more information. Location: Social Sciences Centre 9420 (9th Floor – Dean’s Office area)(Coffee and refreshments will be served after during a discussion session).

Wed March 31st 7-9pm
Gardening in the City with Lance Meredith
Gardening in the City is a series of presentations on a variety of earthy subjects that will grow on you. This last event in the series is presented by Lance Meredith on the topic of "Edible landscapes and permaculture design for the home owner and gardener". Location: London Public Library - Central (Stevenson & Hunt Room)

February: Events Around the City

2010-01-31T21:34:00.009-05:00

Tues February 2nd 7:30-8:30pm
MONARCH MIGRATION: Across a Continent on a Wing and a Prayer
Flashy in orange and black, Monarch butterflies turn heads. What truly captures the imagination, however, is their extraordinary annual journey from local roadsides and meadows to the remote highlands of Mexico. UWO biologist Jeremy McNeil traces their amazing life story. Central Library, 251 Dundas St. ~ Wolf Performance Hall

Sat February 6th 1-3pm
FOTCSI's Annual General Meeting: Annual General Meeting of Friends of the Coves Subwatershed Inc. Landon Branch of the London Public Library, 167 Wortley Road

Tues February 9th 7:30-8:30pm
WETLAND WILDFLOWERS: Ingeniously Adapted to Life with Wet Feet
Life in abundance thrives in watery places – marshes, swamps, ponds and more. Robust yet delicately beautiful, wetland wildflowers surmount challenging conditions, thanks to air bladders, floating leaves and other tricks. UWO botanist Jane Bowles reveals their strategies and their world. Central Library, 251 Dundas St. ~ Wolf Performance Hall

Thurs Feb 11th 7-8:30pm
Talk: Social Justice - Climate-Driven Natural Disasters
Professor Gordon McBean, CM, PhD, FRSC - University of Western Ontario, Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction
Professor McBean is a climate scientist. He shared in the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). He is a Member of the Order of Canada and chairs the international Science Committee for the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk Program and the Board for START International (building regional research capacity in Africa and Asia).
Hosted by: Social Justice Committee, St. Mike's Parish Church, Community Hall, 515 Cheapside Street (near Maitland Street)

Tues February 16th 6:30pm arrivals, 7pm speaker
GREENDRINKS LONDON: Ian Colin James - Fly Fishing & the Thames River
Ian Colin James is a fly fishing guide, national best selling author and a conservationist. In January of 2009, he began teaching the first accredited fly fishing course in Canada at Fanshawe College. Ian is well known for his quick, dry Scottish wit and his after dinner speaking engagements have taken him all across Canada and the USA. Ian has been involved in the Springbank Dam fiasco for 8 years and that's what he is going to chat about at GreenDrinks. If you want to know anything about the fish and the wildlife along the Thames River, this is probably your best chance to find out as Ian spends a lot of time guiding there.
Where: Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street (downtown between Waterloo and Colborne).

Tues February 16th 7:30–8:30pm
London’s Amazing Tree Quest: Our Forest, Your Trees
Boulevard, backyard and parkland trees team up to create London’s urban forest. In 2009 ReForest London organized a contest to discover the city’s most distinctive trees – from the spectacular to the spooky. The City in partnership with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the United States Department of Agriculture also conducted a statistical analysis of our trees. Ivan Listar, London’s Urban Forester, presents the fascinating results of the Quest and interesting facts about our urban forest. Central Library, 251 Dundas St. ~ Wolf Performance Hall

Tues February 16th 10-2pm
Green Jobs Now
Do environmentally friendly companies and green jobs have a place now and in the future of London and Middlesex's economic development plan? Join local green innovators, educators, employers and employees to learn about environmental initiatives, training, and job creation. Participants will have a chance to listen, learn, and ask questions. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt (A+B) Drop In, Free, No Registration Required

Sat February 20th 9-5pm
Seedy Saturday: Unleash Your Inner Gardener
Where: Parish Hall of Trinity Anglican Church in Port Burwell.
Organized by former Londoners Sean Hurley and Bev Wagar in support of Seeds of Diversity Canada.
Workshop and presentation highlights include:
Seed starting Workshop
Heirloom Seed Vendors
Kim Delaney Hawthorn Organic Farm “ Growing your dreams: Favourite Vegetables, Herbs and Flowers”
Ken McMullen of Spring Arbour Farm “Heirloom Flowers”
Horticulturalist, Daisy Moore “Gardening by Choice, Chance and Necessity”
Tickets cost $20 for the whole day including a dinner using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients….or $10 without the dinner. For more detailed information and to purchase tickets for this event, please visit this website: http://theviennacafe.ca/seedysaturdays/. Please book early as tickets for this event will sell out.

Sun February 21st 1:30pm
McIlwraith Field Naturalists. GIBBONS PARK STROLL. Meet the guide in the parking lot at the bottom of the hill at the west end of Grosvenor Street to go for a stroll along the river. Call 519-438-5879 if more information is required.

Sun February 21st 9-11am
Sustainable Living Open House
Where: 48 Strachan Street Port Burwell.
Organized by Matt Redsell., Mat is an avid enthusiast and innovator where sustainable living is concerned and he has offered a tour (for up to 15 people) of his facility at no cost. Suggested donation is $5.
Mat has much practical experience not limited to the following:
On site Bio-diesel production,
On site Windmill construction
Solar electric cells
On site Passive Solar Heating
Evacuated tube solar water heating
More information relating to Mat and his sustainable living experiments can be found here: http://continuo.com/sustainable living/sustainable living.htm.
We encourage people to car share their way down to the events and hopefully the Transition Town Facebook group can assist in facilitating discussion in that regard.
Finally, for individuals unable to attend these events due to combined costs of ticket price and accommodation issues, please contact Transition London: Transtionlondon@gmail.com

Mon February 22nd 4:30-6:00pm
UWO PUBLIC LECTURE: The 2 degrees challenge: Climate catastrophe or sustainable inspiration?
Who: David Noble, Founder & Principal of 2 degrees C,
Where: Middlesex College Room 110
Public Lecture - All Welcome

Fresh from the Climate Change conference in Copenhagen, activist David Noble, will give a firsthand perspective as a participant. What was achieved? Anything, or was it just a lot of hot air? What were the conference outcomes? How does the world view climate change? Two degrees C of global warming over pre-industrial global average temperatures is viewed as a critical threshold above which the risks of catastrophic climate change increase dramatically. Are we moving in the right 2 degree direction?
David Noble is founder and principal of 2degreesC, a global organization with a core team in Canada that works with and through a network of partners, clients and friends all around the world. It is dedicated to advancing collective action and transformational change in response to the global climate crisis.

Copenhagen was David’s fifth international climate negotiation. He has trained with Al Gore and is a presenter with the Climate Project, has been a keynote and featured presenter to diverse audiences in 10 countries in North America, Europe and Asia. He has worked on more than 60 projects spanning the public, private and youth sectors, academia, and various professional sectors.

David’s articles appear frequently in professional and general interest publications, and he has contributed to several national and international reports, including a UNICEF report on the human security impacts of climate change on children. He co-edited and wrote for, Stepping up to the Climate Change Challenge: Perspectives on local government leadership, policy and practice, distributed to nearly 4,000 Mayors and chief administrators in municipalities across Canada.

David Noble is a man of passion and purpose. Audiences have called his talks energetic, exciting, motivating, inspiring, hopeful, and not to be missed!

We are pleased to invite everyone to participate in this special speaker event.

Tues February 23rd 7:30–9:30pm
Light Rail Transit for London ~ Public Meeting
Rails for London Kathyrn Nikota and Dean Tolton, graduates of the Integrated Land Planning Technologies program of Fanshawe College present their proposal for a Light Rail Transit System for London. Their research demonstrates how LRT systems create friendly, safe and exciting places to live. Attend the presentation this coming Tuesday, February 23rd at 7:30 in the Stevenson & Hunt Room of the Central Library. Our great-grandparents enjoyed three light rail systems in the early 20th century here in London. Streetcars were operated by the London Street Railway Co. The Southwestern Traction Line provided light rail service from it's depot on Horton St. to Pt. Stanley via Lambeth, Glanworth, & St. Thomas. The London and Port Stanley Railway, also based in the SoHo area and electrified by Sir Adam Beck, was the finest electric system in Canada. A display in the London Room of the Central Library created by London Historian Alice Gibb provides historical background on the Traction Line and the London &Port Stanley Railway. Bombardier of Canada is a leader in the field of Light Rail Transit, supplying trainsets for use in LRT systems all over the world. We have the technology. This presentation is sponsored by the Friends of Public Transit Contact: Stephen Harding (519) 451-8252. Venue: Central Library, Stevenson & Hunt Room

Tues February 23rd 7:30–8:30pm
“THE COVES” OF LONDON: A Secluded Natural Gem
The quiet oxbow ponds and wetlands of The Coves Environmentally Significant Area are remnants of an ancient meander of the Thames. Jaclyn Goodwillie, of Friends of the Coves Subwatershed, invites us inside for a peek into this oasis of wildlife in south London. Central Library, 251 Dundas St. ~ Wolf Performance Hall

Wed February 24th 6-9:30pm
Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Charity Dinner
A charity dinner benefiting Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is being hosted by Jeve's Pet Care at Waldo's on King in London. Enjoy a delicious dinner, wildlife presentation, silent auction, door prizes and musical entertainment. Tickets are $30 and seating is limited. Contact Jeve at 519-204-5383 to purchase tickets or donate auction items. Look forward to seeing you there!!!

Sat February 27th 1-4pm
"Seeding" Hands-On Workshop - London City Farm Network
Dear Gardening Enthusiast: This season our farming project is developing extended season and will be planting seeds in trays to jump start! We are looking for folks who would like to spend a quiet afternoon learning to seed in the greenhouse located at 1501 Dundas Street - just past Trails End Farmer's Market. We will be arranging for car pool, so please RSVP Rose White at rosemary.white.cf@gmail.com to reserve a ride or to let us know you have room in your vehicle.

We will also be making space available for rent if you would like to seed your own garden this year. The cost is $.75 per square foot. First come basis - space is limited.

GreenDrinks @ Fire Roasted Coffee Company

2010-01-20T20:51:00.012-05:00

We had an amazing turnout of just under 100 people for GreenDrinks this month. Thank you to Dave, Patrick, Jason, Leslie, Wilma, Railway City Brewery, and all of the vendors from the Western Fair Farmer's Market who treated us to a variety of great local food and drink.

To see a few more pics from the evening, click on the title of this post and stay tuned for more of the same in 2010. It's going to be an exciting year!

Should London adopt the green bin program?

2010-01-13T21:20:00.006-05:00

Here are a few links to explore:

In response to 'Environmentalist Trashes Plan' as published in the London Free Press
http://canadianclimateaction.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/in-response-to-environmentalist-trashes-plan-as-published-by-the-london-freepress/

Environmentalist trashes plan
http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/20/12535016.html

Opponents put economy ahead of green bin plan
http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/13/12445911.html

Green Bin pilot hits red light
http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/11/12426726.html

Local Blogger: From My Bottom Step
http://www.frommybottomstep.com/2010/01/11/green-bins-in-london-hah/

NOTE: Council will vote on this matter on MONDAY, JANUARY 18th @ 5pm. If you would like to cast your vote on this program going through, you can attend the meeting and be one of many who will fill the gallery (2nd floor) in council chambers or call/email your city councillor directly.

January: Events Around the City

2009-12-31T00:08:00.007-05:00

Fri January 1st 10:00 am
NEW YEAR’S DAY BIRD WALK at SPRINGBANK PARK.
Start out the New Year and your 2010 bird list on MFN’s annual New Year’s Day Bird Walk in Springbank Park. Meet at the parking lot by the Guy Lombardo Museum on the west side of Wonderland Rd.

Fri January 1st 1:00 - 4:00pm
New Year’s Day Levee at Eldon House.
Bring in the new year by visiting Eldon House. Musical entertainment by Coventry Carollers, hot cider and treats, Admission by donation.

Thurs January 7th 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Empower Your Self & Be the Change! - Part 1 - Deeper Understanding.
There is a powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed, can make any vision, any dream, a reality. Take back your power, live disease-free, support the environment, live the change, and be the Artist of Your Life, we welcome you to join us for this three part transformational experience. This session will help you to understand the highest quality nutritional program on the planet and the Seven keys to a healthy, creative and abundant lifestyle. See also part two and three. You can attend one or any of the session. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt A. CANCELED - as per library notification

Wed January 13th 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Resilient London 2030. Exploring the Transition Model.
Join Transition London for presentation, Q&A, followed by small group conversations about topic that affect our everyday lives and our future, neighbourhood networks, strategic questions and the next steps. This introduction to Transition Towns Culture is an open space, participatory experience event. Transition London is a part of a vibrant, international grassroots movement that builds resilient communities in response to the challenges of peak oil, climate change and the economic crisis. Together we can make the transition to a more fulfiling, equitable and sustainable world. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B

Thurs January 14th 7:30 - 9:00 PM
Beyond Tinkering: Growing an Inclusive Economy.
Tired of playing winners and losers? Join a panel presentation moderated by CTV's Tom Clarke and explore ideas for growing an inclusive local economy. Panelists will be Greg Playford - Devonshire Financial; Michele Hurtubise - London Intercommunity Health Centre; Don Gordon - Thames Talbot Land Trust; Tim Carrie - Canadian Auto Workers and Joni Baechler - City Councilor, Ward 5. Come to learn and share. Central 1st Floor Wolf Performance Hall

Thurs January 14th 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Empower Your Self & Be the Change! - Part 2 - Emotional Intelligence.
There is a powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed, can make any vision, any dream, a reality. Take back your power, live disease-free, support the environment, live the change, and be the Artist of Your Life, we welcome you to join us for this three part transformational experience. In this session you will learn how to stay balanced and centered in a chaotic world, manifest and maintain healthy, lasting and nourishing relationships and live from your heart. See also part one and three. You can attend all or any of the sessions. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt A. CANCELED - as per library notification

Sat January 16th 1:00 - 4:30 PM
What's Wrong With Politically Correct Nutrition?
Discover how 'healthy eating' is making us sick. By examining the benefits of nutritionally sound, traditional diets, you will understand how may of today's new food fads (designed by 'politically correct' dietary dictocrats) are actually damaging your health. Pam Killeen, co-author of the NY Times bestselling book, 'The Great Bird Flu Hoax' will provide a detailed description about the underlying dietary factors that conferred beauty, strength and excellent mental and physical health among primitive populations. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B. Dirty Little Secrets of the Food Processing Industry; Introduction into the work of Dr. Weston Price. $15 at-the-door. Reserve seats at pam@pamkilleen.com or 519-488-5376. Info. provided by renter. The Library does not assume responsibility for accuracy.

Tues January 19th 7:30 - 8:30 PM
SOARING WITH RAPTORS: Masterful Fliers; Skillful Hunters.
Steve Bucciarelli of Predator Bird Services introduces local raptors and explains their importance in the food chain. Accompanied by a live bird, he will share his experiences using raptors to scare off nuisance species, including geese, pigeons, starlings and gulls. Central Library. 251 Dundas St. ~ Wolf Performance Hall

Tues January 19th 7:00 PM
GREENDRINKS LONDON – TOUR & TASTING – FIRE ROASTED COFFEE COMPANY
Where: 900 King Street, (Western Fair Market - Confederation Building) upper level

Dave Cook of the Fire Roasted Coffee Co. and Jeff Pastorius of On the Move Organics will be headed to the backroads of El Salvador and Guatemala this month to forge partnerships with producers from local Fair Trade co-operatives. Cook, who deals in premium international coffees, said it is another way to give consumers a more direct link to their food. "This will allow us to focus on a single plantation and to create change... ”It's pretty special when I can show a picture or a video of the person who grew our coffee," he said. Read the full London Free Press article at http://www.lfpress.com/money/2009/12/30/12300096-sun.html.

Join us January 19th for a warm cup of joe, a slide show of their South American adventure, and the usual friendly GreenDrinks conversation.

Thurs January 21st 7:30pm - 9:30pm
An Eco-Poetic Sound Opera for Climate Change Action
Host: London Grassroots Community Events
Type: Music/Arts - Performance
Network: Global
Location: Brescia University College Auditorium
Street: 1285 Western Road
City/Town: London, ON
Description: Luminous Entrance: A Sound Opera for Climate Change Action
Cost at the Door: $15.00 or $12.00 for Circle Members, Seniors, Students and the Under-Employed Free Parking

Thurs January 21st 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Empower Your Self & Be the Change! - Part 3 - Implementing the Change.
There is a powerful driving force inside every human being that, once unleashed, can make any vision, any dream, a reality. Take back your power, live disease-free, support the environment, live the change, and be the Artist of Your Life, we welcome you to join us for this three part transformational experience. In this session you will learn how to find your ‘element’, how finding your passion changes everything and how to be an agent of change in your community - Re-vision the future. See also part one on January 7th and part two on January 14th. You can attend all or any of the three sessions. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt A. CANCELED - as per library notification

Sat January 23rd 1:00 - 4:30 PM
What's Wrong With Politically Correct Nutrition?
Discover how 'healthy eating' is making us sick . By examining the benefits of nutritionally sound, traditional diets, you will understand how may of today's new food fads (designed by 'politically correct' dietary dictocrats) are actually damaging your health. Pam Killeen, co-author of the NY Times bestselling book, 'The Great Bird Flu Hoax' will provide a detailed description about the underlying dietary factors that conferred beauty, strength and excellent mental and physical health among primitive populations. Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B

Tues January 26th 7:30 - 8:30 PM
ON THE TRAIL OF WILD MAMMALS: Tracks and Scats of Elusive Creatures.
Secretive and rarely glimpsed, many kinds of wild animals live within the city. In passing, they leave behind subtle clues of their presence. Alistair MacKenzie of Pinery Provincial Park teaches us how to read the telltale signs and discern the authors. Central Library. 251 Dundas St. Wolf Performance Hall

December: Events Around the City

2009-11-26T20:04:00.025-05:00

Wednesday Dec 2nd 7-9pm
Premiere screening of "IN TRANSITION"
Transition London invites you to the premiere screening of 'In Transition', an inspiring account of a creative, communal response to peak oil and climate change. A film about helping to build resilience in the local community for a more fulfilling, enriching, and less wasteful life. Location: Central Library, Wolf Hall - 251 Dundas Street. Admission: FREE. Discussion will follow the film screening. Watch the film trailer

Dec 7-18th
UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE… Copenhagen
The United Nations Climate Change Conference will take place at the Bella Center in Copenhagen, Denmark, between December 7 and December 18, 2009. The goal of this conference, as I understand it, is to create a framework for climate change mitigation beyond 2012 that is to be agreed upon there by all international leaders.

"The moment every country arrives at climate negotiations seeking to keep their own emissions as high as possible, this is the logic of the madhouse, a recipe for collective suicide. We don't want a global suicide pact. We want a global survival pact." - - - President Mohamed Nasheed

WATCH THIS VIDEO
THE BIG ASK (3 mins.) and do a little research so that you understand what is going on.

THEN, ASK FOR ACTION!!!
If you would like to cast your vote and let international politicians know that you would like to see real targets developed in Copenhagen visit this site and sign, then HELP SPREAD THE WORD by sending this email to everyone you know.

BACKGROUND INFO: The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC or FCCC) is an international environmental treaty produced at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), informally known as the Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992. The objective of the treaty is to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. The Kyoto Protocol is a protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC or FCCC), aimed at combating global warming. There is a link on Wikipedia that shows a maps of all the countries that have signed on.

Friday Dec 11th - 6pm
Candlelight Vigil for Survival @ Victoria Park Bandshell
World leaders are about to begin climate treaty discussions in Copenhagen. To mark the occasion and to give Londoners the opportunity to come together, in community, to show our government leaders that we are concerned about our climate and want them to agree to concrete greenhouse gas reduction targets at the talks in Copenhagen, there will be a Candlelight Vigil for Survival....

Listen to words of encouragement and hope, light candles, join the silent vigil and reflective walk around the park, returning to the bandshell for a collective photo.

Joining us will be:

• Dr. Gordon McBean, Professor at UWO
• Gina Barber, London City Controller
• Members of local environmental groups
• Children, teens, parents and grandparents

Add your light to that of others around the world and make this a memorable evening for your entire family. What to bring: Warm clothes, candle/flashlight, a sign with 350 on it (can be a simple 8x10 page)

Sign up for the event on the 350.org website at http://www.350.org/node/13253

Saturday Dec 12th 8pm
Evening of Music - London Food Bank Fundraiser
Currently, the Food Bank is helping over 2500 families with emergency food each month. Of the almost 7500 individuals that are helped, 40% of them are children under the age of 18. This is a significant number of children in our area that are living in poverty. It is through gifts such as these that we are able to continue to provide emergency food for these children and their families. All food and money donations to the food bank. Venue: London Music Club (front room), Colborne Street, Downtown London

Tuesday Dec 15th 7pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Holiday EcoSchmooze - PURPOSEFUL GIFTING
How to have the greenest, thriftiest, most meaningful holiday ever!
We’ve all got enough stuff (http://www.storyofstuff.com/) and everyone loves to show off their creative alternatives for gift giving, so join us in celebration by bringing one idea to share with the group(show & tell). Let's all think outside of the big-box this year and design a gift giving plan that will improve our health, deepen our relationships, and tread a little lighter on good ol' planet earth. Where: Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street (Downtown between Waterloo and Colborne).

Saturday Dec 19th
LONDON CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT and POTLUCK SUPPER
Volunteers have been counting birds on Audubon Annual Christmas Bird Counts for more than 100 years, and their contributions represent a tremendously valuable resource for learning more about wintering birds. MFN has been an active participant for 101 years, and you can help by spending the day scouring the countryside for birds or watching activity at your feeders. The count must be coordinated to ensure that we have uniform coverage. The coordinators will assign an area to you. Birders of all skill levels are welcome and can contribute. Novice birders can be paired with more experienced birders to learn the ropes. If you can't get out that day you can still participate by counting the birds at your feeder. For more information about this venerable birding tradition see these websites: Bird Studies Canada - CBC Audubon. After a fun day of winter birding there will be a Potluck Supper for participants. Please call 519-472-2887 for more information.

Friday Jan 1st, 2010 - 10am
BIRD WALK at SPRINGBANK PARK
Start out the New Year and your 2010 bird list on MFN’s annual New Year’s Day Bird Walk in Springbank Park. Meet at the parking lot by the Guy Lombardo Museum on the west side of Wonderland Rd.

GREENPEACE welcomes a new leader.

2009-11-26T19:58:00.004-05:00

Kumi Naidoo, the new Executive Director of Greenpeace International, writes:

In several African languages we have the proverb “I am, because you are”. This means that your sense of being a human being is determined by the relationships you have with other people. This proverb has informed not only my thinking about human relationships, but also about nature and the environment. Unless we recognise that we must come together in communities, in rich and poor countries and cut across the range of divides that keep us apart, unless we recognise that we are all in this together, we will not be able to address the environmental challenges that we face and we certainly will not be able to address the problem of climate change.

Today we are at the cross roads. The future of our planet is at stake. The effects of climate change are being felt by millions of people across the world. We are at a time when civil society needs to be courageous and bold, peaceful and principled in coming together to ensure that we stop catastrophic climate change – the biggest challenge our planet has ever faced.

Watch the video at http://weblog.greenpeace.org/makingwaves/archives/2009/11/kumi_naidoo.html

Sick of the Swine Flu???

2009-11-05T09:35:00.003-05:00

So is Leslie Garrett (Virtuous Consumer), read more at http://www.greenmuze.com/blogs/green-light/1764-sick-of-swine-flu.html.

CHEF @ HOME in London

2009-11-04T16:13:00.016-05:00

London Heath Sciences Centre hosted their annual ECOCARE CONFERENCE last month, and I was asked to support a few of the speakers during the facilitation of their breakout sessions (Healing Properties of Food & Managing E-Waste). Mary-Lee Townsend, LHSC's Environmental Specialist, put together an impressive mix of topics that attracted health care professionals from across the country. It was a fantastic day of learning and conversation.

As if attending weren't gift enough, Mary-Lee invited me to attend their GALA DINNER, where the food was locally sourced from organic producers (Carolinian Winery provided the drink), and I got to meet and chat with Chef Michael Smith from FOOD NETWORK CANADA.

Incredibly tall, yet undeniably grounded Chef Michael Smith spoke about food - the good old-fashioned nourish your body/mind/spirit ritual of preparing and eating FOOD - and how each of us can make the time, to make the best choices for our family and our planet.

My favourite question of the evening was whether 'LOCAL' or 'ORGANIC' was his first priority when choosing ingredients. He said while he used to put organic at the top of the list, he began to rethink that logic upon considering the environmental impacts of shipping organic garlic in from China (not to mention the quality concerns). He now devotes his time, money, and resources to supporting his local growers; working with them to educate and create a market for LOCAL, SEASONAL, and ORGANIC. I am inspired to do the same.

November: Events Around the City

2009-11-01T10:18:00.010-05:00

Sunday Nov 1st 1:30 pm
STROLL at FANSHAWE CONSERVATION AREA McIlwraith Field Naturalists.
Meet the leader at the Fanshawe Dam for an easy stroll to enjoy late fall. Enter the park via the Clarke Road entrance and proceed past the gatehouse. Turn left at the administration buildings and park on the south side of the river by the dam. Call 519-434-1931 for more details if required. Our outdoor events are perfect excuses to get away for a few hours and visit natural sites in and around London. There are always MFN members along who are able to help with tricky identifications and are willing to share their knowledge. It is useful to bring along binoculars, pencil and notebook, field guides, etc. (but don't burden yourself too much). Families with children are welcome on field trips, but pets should be left at home.

Tuesday Nov 3rd 7-8:30pm
Water and Climate Change...What we know; What we don't know; How do we respond? The purpose of the lecture is to bring together environmental community groups from across the Upper Thames River Watershed to learn about and discuss: Water and Climate Change. Guest Speaker: Professor Slobodan P. Simonovic. Venue: Ridgeview Community Church - 1470 Glenora Drive. Please RSVP to Julie at 519-451 2800 ext 255 or visit www.thamesriver.on.ca.

Tuesday Nov 3rd 7-9pm
The Centre for Environment & Sustainability (UWO) presents: Dr. Peter Victor –
“Managing Without Growth: Slower by Design, not Disaster”
Venue: Middlesex College Room 110
Growth, expansion, greater wealth – these have long been the standard policies of governments and business. But is growth effective in eliminating world poverty, solving unemployment, protecting the environment and contributing to individual happiness? What would happen to world economics if we had a no growth policy? Dr. Peter Victor will address these issues and others in his upcoming lecture as part of the E&S Special Lecture Series. An economist and Professor in Environmental Studies at York University, Dr. Victor has worked on environmental issues for nearly 40 years. Dr. Victor was one of the original founders of ecological economics and was the first President of the Canadian Society for Ecological Economics. He was Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Studies, York, an Assistant Deputy Minister of the Environmental Sciences and Standards Division in the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, and has worked as a consultant on economic studies in Canada and abroad. He is a technical advisor in such areas as air pollution and health, emissions trading, emerging issues and education for sustainable energy development. His most recent book is Managing Without Growth - Slower by Design, not Disaster. (Edward Elgar, 2008) Plan to attend and hear how Peter Victor challenges current economic myths. A reminder: Dr. Victor will be the guest author for E&S Reads – 10:30 to Noon, Nov. 3, 09 – Kresge Building Room 106. This is an excellent opportunity for a intimate discussion with the author. Copies of “Managing Without Growth” are available in the Bookstore.
Everyone is welcome to both events.
Presented by: The Centre for Environment and Sustainability, The Global and Ecosystem Health Interest Group at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and The McConnell Family Foundation.

Friday Nov 6th 7pm
Canaries in a Coalmine – What Are Ontario’s Birds Telling Us?
An illustrated lecture by Mike Cadman. Wolf Performance Hall London Public Library, 251 Dundas St Leading bird authority Mike Cadman is a Songbird Biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Service. Mike has devoted 8 years as the staff lead on The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Ontario (2001-2005). Without doubt, the second Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas ranks among the most successful, important and exciting bird research and conservation projects ever undertaken in the Western Hemisphere. The Atlas database is an incredibly powerful foundation not only for the book itself, but for innumerable bird research and environmental management applications for many years to come. Mike is now involved in researching conservation solutions for some of the challenges identified in the Atlas. Mike will be presenting findings from the Atlas and new developments in avian conservation with a special emphasis on the role of habitat conservation by groups such as the Thames Talbot Land Trust.

Saturday Nov 7th
Live Food Nutrition Workshop - More Energy, More Life
Discover easy weight loss, renewed health and greater energy with Whole, Organic Vegan Live-Foods. Like thousands of ecstatic Living Centre clients, you won't ever need to look at another fad diet book again! Fact is, the Live-Food diet is proving to be the healthiest, most common sense diet on the planet. Why? Because when we eat foods in their natural state we receive maximum nutrition and with this - maximum health. The mysteries of nature cannot be duplicated artificially. Nature exists in holistic forms. Their effects are also holistic. A raw and living food diet brings more energy and a resilient immune system. Stress, chronic illness, burnout, immune dysfunction, depression or weight concerns are all addressed in this very informative training. The live-food diet includes unprocessed and uncooked plant foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, sprouts, seeds, nuts, grains, beans, dried fruit, and seaweeds. Raw and living foods have all the vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes and Phytonutrients intact. Heating food over 118 degrees destroy all Phytonutrients and enzymes (the sparks of life) and depletes foods of their vitamins, minerals and protein. As well as being the most nutrient rich diet on the planet, live-food cuisine is enormously creative and satisfying to prepare. The vibrant colors, textures and scents are nourishment to all of your senses. For more information visit The Living Centre - www.thelivingcentre.com.

Tuesday Nov 10th 6-9:30pm
Public Meeting for London's Transportation Master Plan
The City of London is embarking on a Transportation Master Plan (TMP) study to improve the ways we get around in London. It is also known as Smart Moves. The study will be looking at how to accommodate the needs of all transportation users in the City including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and transit users.

The first of three public meetings is taking place soon:

When: Tuesday, November 10

Where: Western Fair Grounds - Carousel Room

Time: 6-7p.m. Open House, 7-9:30 p.m. Workshop

Visit the City of London’s webpage at www.london.ca/smartmoves, where you can find more information about the Plan, fill out a survey, and share your thoughts on the discussion forum.

Please send RSVPs for this meeting to Charles Tilden at ctilden@canurb.com or 416-365-0816 x282, by November 6th.

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please contact:

Maged Elmadhoon, M.Eng, P. Eng.
Manager, Traffic Engineering and Transportation Planning
City of London
Tel: (519) 661-2500 Ex. 4934
Email: melmadho@london.ca

OR

Dick Gordon P.Eng., MCIP, RPP
Manager, Transportation Planning
AECOM
5080 Commerce Boulevard
Mississauga, ON L4W 4P2
Tel: 905-238-0007
Email: dick.gordon@aecom.com

Please note we encourage you to carpool, take transit, walk or cycle to the meeting. Transit route information is available on the LTC’s website www.ltconline.ca and bicycle racks are available next door, outside the Slots building entrance. There is ample free parking at the Western Fair.

Tuesday Nov 10th 7:30-9:00pm
"Financial Crisis an Opportunity for a New Global Order?"
Featured Speaker: John Dillon, Economic Justice Program Coordinator, KAIROS
Beyond Tinkering: Growing an Inclusive Economy - Lecture 3 of 4 Part Series Organization: Sisters of St. Joseph.
Where: Brescia University College 1285 Western Rd
Join the Sisters of St. Joseph for the rest of this four part lecture series. All lectures will be held at Brescia University College from 7:30 - 9:00 pm.

Monday Nov 16th 7-9pm
Raw Food 101
Interested in raw/live food but don't know where to start? Come learn how a raw food kitchen works. We'll explore appliances like the Vitamix, the dehydrator and the spiralizer. We'll chat about the benefits of eating whole, raw foods and create yummy recipes (raw onion crackers, hummus, noodles with marinara sauce and brownies) to share over a cup of tea. Cost: $40 plus GST. Location: 2237 Wharncliffe Rd S. To register call The Lotus Centre at 519-642-2378.

Wednesday Nov 18th 1:30-2:30pm
Lecture: Developing Climate Change Policy in Canada
Speaker: Mr. Bob Hamilton, Associate Deputy Minister, Environment Canada
Everyone is welcome to attend a series of three public lectures by members of the Government of Canada, delivered at various locations on campus. Location: Room 1, Natural Sciences Centre

Wednesday Nov 18th 7-9p.m.
SPEAKER: Maude Barlow and Sid Ryan speak on
These free trade deals will stop your local government from choosing to spend your tax dollars in your community. The lowest bidder wins regardless of the impact on local economies. The federal and provincial governments are selling Canadians the idea that provincial purchasing policies and other rights are barriers to free trade. What’s really behind the push for ‘inter-provincial trade’ deals, the Canada-European Union pact and a new NAFTA accord? Find out when Maude Barlow and Sid Ryan speak in your community. This event is free of charge. AEOLIAN HALL 795 Dundas St. East London, ON N5W 2Z6 For more information: CUPE Ontario: www.cupe.ca ; 416-292-3979 The Council of Canadians: www.canadians.org ; 1-800-387-7177. Hosted by the Council of Canadians and CUPE Ontario.

Thursday Nov 19th 6:30pm
GREENDRINKS SOCIAL - The Morrissey House - 359 Dundas Street (Downtown between Waterloo and Colborne). Good food, good drink, fantastic conversation!

Thursday Nov 19th 7-9pm
Super Foods for Wellness- Organization: London Regional Cancer Program - London Health Sciences Centre. Loblaw Superstore Wonderland & Southdale Rd, Learn about nutrition, antioxidants, and the tips and tricks for a healthy diet. Presenter: Heather Thomas, RD MSc PhD Student Public Health Dietitian, Middlesex-London Health Unit. This is a free event, but registration is required as space is limited. To reserve your seat or for more information, call 519-685-8742 This event is presented by: London Regional Cancer Program - London Health Sciences Centre, Wellspring London and Region, Canadian Cancer Society, Middlesex-London Health Unit and London Community Food Advisory Group

Friday Nov 20th 5:30pm
ON THIN ICE: CAN CARBON IN FORESTS AND BOGS HELP SAVE POLAR BEARS?
McIlwraith Field Naturalists - ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET.
Dave Pearce. Our guest speaker, Dave Pearce, CPAWS (Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society) Wildlands League’s Forest Conservation Analyst, will tell the story of how “ice bears”, climate change, and carbon choices collide dramatically in Ontario’s far north. Ontario has the world’s most southern population of Polar Bears, the poster beast for climate change issues, and it also has one of the richest natural carbon reserves in the world in the Boreal Forest. Pressure to extract resources threatens to release this carbon and accelerate climate change. But, in spite of this development pressure, Ontario’s far north is still relatively pristine. Premier Dalton McGuinty recently recognized it as one of the last great intact ecosystems of the planet and a vital carbon storehouse and, most importantly, committed to permanently protect more than half of it. For this promise to live up to its potntial, it must become law and the commitment to sustainable development must be real. The banquet will be held at the Hellenic Community Centre at 133 Southdale Road West (opposite Notre Dame Drive). The Centre is very accessible, and there is ample parking close to the entrance. Dinner will be a buffet meal. Tickets ($34 each) must be purchased in advance; they can be ordered via the membership renewal form enclosed with this issue, or by calling Ann Day (519-473-0294). A social hour from 5:30 to 6:30 will allow time to visit and take part in the bucket raffle. If you can donate a gift for the raffle, please write or call Karen Auzins (karen@auzins.ca, 519-652-9483) or Sue Read (psread@xplornet.com, 519-472-2887).

Saturday Nov 21st
Ayurveda: Nature’s Wisdom
Often called the “Mother of All Healing” this powerful system of healing originated in India. More than a mere system of treating illness, Ayurveda is a “Science of Life”, (Ayur = life, Veda = science or knowledge). The ancient wisdom of Ayurveda provides specific guidelines for incredible health, and these precepts are taught by renowned expert Shantree Kacera, D.N., Ph.D. In Ayurveda, body, mind and consciousness work together in maintaining balance. A lifestyle approach, Ayurveda emphasizes prevention through offering guidelines on ideal daily and seasonal routines, nutrition, exercise, and the proper use of the senses and herbs. This in depth training of the ancient wisdom and science of Ayurveda will give you the tools to attain and maintain vibrant health of body, mind and emotions. Register today to take advantage of this special opportunity. Openings are limited. For more information visit The Living Centre - www.thelivingcentre.com.

Tuesday Nov 24th 6pm
Blind Spot with special guest, John Michael Greer - What if all of the expectations you have about the future are completely wrong? Mark your calendars for November 24, 2009 and plan to see the documentary film Blind Spot by Adolfo Doring. Come and enjoy a film, pizza and a lively Q&A led by John Michael Greer, social critic on resource scarcity and depletion and author of The Long Decent, The Ecotechnic Future. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m., University of Western Ontario, Middlesex College in Rm 110. All Welcome!

Thursday Nov 26th 7:30-9:00pm
"Does This Crisis Create an Opening to Change our Economy, Not Just Stabilize It?" Featured Speaker: Jim Stanford, Economist - Canadian Auto Workers Union Beyond Tinkering: Growing an Inclusive Economy - Lecture 4 of 4 Part Series
Join the Sisters of St. Joseph for the rest of this four part lecture series. All lectures will be held at Brescia University College (1285 Western Rd, London). FREE.

Paul Hawken - Blessed Unrest - Sisters of St. Joseph

2009-11-01T10:17:00.008-05:00

"How the Largest Movement In the World Came Into Being and Why No One Saw it Coming."Paul Hawken has spent over a decade researching organizations dedicated to restoring the environment and fostering social justice. From billion-dollar nonprofits to single-person dot.causes, these groups collectively comprise the largest movement on earth, a movement that has no name, leader, or location, and that has gone largely ignored by politicians and the media. Like nature itself, it is organizing from the bottom up, in every city, town, and culture. and is emerging to be an extraordinary and creative expression of people's needs worldwide.

The Sisters of St. Joseph invited Mr. Hawken to London as part of their 'BEYOND TINKERING: CREATING AN INCLUSIVE ECONOMY' speaker series (check out their session for November) and I was incredibly honoured to be invited to the pre-talk dinner at their LEED certified home (at the top of Windermere). Thank you to the Sister's, to Don Gordon(TTLT), and to Paul, for a lovely evening of laughter and conversation.

October: Events Around The City

2009-10-02T11:53:00.009-04:00

Thursday Oct 1st 7:30pm
A talk by Nobel Prize Nominee Sheila Watt-Cloutier
"Everything is Connected: Environment, Economy, Foreign Policy, Sustainability, Human Rights and Leadership in the 21st Century"
A Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Sheila Watt-Cloutier, offers a new model for 21st Century leadership. She treats the issues of our day not as separate concerns, but as a deeply interconnected whole. "We must now speak environment, economy, foreign policy, health and human rights in the same breath," she says. "Everything is connected." This is Watt-Cloutier's message. Every decision has a profound effect on those far from the corridors of power; to understand this connection is vital to building a sustainable world. At a time when people are seeking solutions, direction, and a sense of hope, she provides a big picture of where we are and where we are headed. Her advocacy work - not just environmental but all-encompassing - is grounded in human rights, in our shared humanity. For more info visit www.brescia.uwo.ca/sophia
Venue: Brescia Auditorium
Cost: Admission by donation. Suggested Donation: Students/Seniors $10.00, Adult $20.00

Thursday Oct 1st 7-9pm
Raw Food 101 - Central Library
When you think Raw Food do you think salad...salad...and more salad??? Well, think again! Think soup (yes,warm), think noodles and sauces, think chocolate brownies... Delicious! All of these tasty favourites have been created raw-food-style! Imagine, healthy, raw vegan cuisine the whole family will enjoy! Want to learn more? Join us as we embark on a Raw Food Journey. Location: Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt A. Speaker: Therese Van Es.

Saturday Oct 3rd
Nutritional Herbalism Workshop @ The Living Centre
Let thy kitchen be thy apothecary; and, Let foods be your medicine. ~Hippocrates
Nutritional Herbalism is for the beginning herbalist and those interested in understanding the nutritional content of plants and how you can apply it to maintain or regain good health. Nutrition is the root to physical wellness; every living cell depends on it! For more information visit www.thelivingcentre.com.

Saturday Oct 3rd 6:30pm
'British Columbia' - Provincial Dinner Night @ Carolinian Winery
Welcome to our culinary exploration of the province of British Columbia. The facts that spurred and inspired our dish selection for this meal are courtesy of the Culinary Tourism Society of BC and the Government of BC Ministry of Agriculture & Lands. Menu: Salad - Apple-Cranberry Greens, Appetizer - West Coast Grilled Mini Pizza, Refresher - Beef Consomme, Main - BC Salmon, Varietal Roast Potatoes & Blueberry Slaw, Dessert - Pumpkin Swirl Brownies with Pumpkin Ice Cream (everything but the salmon is sourced locally). Dinner Price of $35 pp includes two complimentary wine samples before the meal, mealtime wine pairing suggestions, live entertainment, as well as post-meal coffee or tea choice. Subject to taxes and 15% gratuities. Contact (519) 268-2000 for reservation.

Wednesday Oct 7th 7-9pm
GAIA GROOVES II - "Honouring the Waters of our World"
Performers: Ogiichiidaw Kwe Wag Singers(Mary-Lou Smoke & Warrior Women), Pulse Dancers(Ruth Douthwright), The Sudanese Women Singers/Dancers, Las Chicas(Afro-Cuban Rhythms), Joyful Noise(A choir of worldly songs), PHOENIX Drummers
Venue: Wolf Performance Hall, Central Library
Admission: Free

Thursday Oct 8th 7:00-8:30pm
Ontario’s Reptiles at Risk - Hosted by: Friends of the Coves
Friends of the Coves Subwatershed invite you to a talk on Ontario's Reptiles at Risk by presenters from Sciensational Snakes. Join us to learn about reptiles and reptile conservation. Assisting the presenters will be live reptiles including native Ontario species and some common pet species. At the close of the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to touch, hold or even wear live snakes. This is a completely voluntary activity and there will be rules to ensure the safety of the animals and participants. This will be a great opportunity for all ages to gain a greater understanding of this illusive and often misunderstood group of animals. Of especial interest to Coves residents will be a chance to see a live Snapping Turtle, a Coves species that has been listed as at risk. With most reptile species in decline in Ontario, it is important to be educated on how we can all play a part in reptile conservation. For more info visit http://www.thecoves.ca/event-item.php?id=149

Thursday Oct 8th 7:30-9:30pm
Wind: A Source of Power - Mayor's Sustainable Energy Council
Speakers: Dr. Jim Salmon - Zephyr North, Dr. Greg Kopp - UWO - Boundary Layer
Wind Tunnel, Richard Duffy - Ontario Power Authority
Venue: Museum London, Community Gallery
Admission: Free
For more information visit www.london.ca/energysaver

Saturday Oct 10th-12th
Fall On The Farm - Hosted by: Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Watch as farm families prepare for the coming winter with the harvest of the corn crop, textiles arts and wood stove cooking. Thanksgiving dinner available at the Pioneer Village Café all three days. For more information please call Fanshawe Pioneer Village at 519-457-1296 or visit the website www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca for additional information.

Thursday Oct 15th 7pm
Film Screening: FOOD Inc. (Hosted by: Slowfood & GreenDrinks London)
Food Inc. exposes America's industrialized food system and its effect on our environment, health, economy and workers' rights. In Food, Inc., filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the veil on our nation's food industry, exposing the highly mechanized underbelly that has been hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government's regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA. Our nation's food supply is now controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of workers and our own environment. We have bigger-breasted chickens, the perfect pork chop, herbicide-resistant soybean seeds, even tomatoes that won't go bad, but we also have new strains of E. coli—the harmful bacteria that causes illness for an estimated 73,000 Americans annually. We are riddled with widespread obesity, particularly among children, and an epidemic level of diabetes among adults.
Venue: Hyland Cinema
Cost: $6.50 cinema members, $9.00 non-members

Friday Oct 16th 3:30pm
The Nuclear Question - The Acute and Chronic Dangers of Nuclear Power and Nuclear War
Speaker: Dr. Helen Caldicott
Venue: Natural Sciences Centre, Room 1 - The University of Western Ontario
As the subject of the 1982 National Film Board of Canada’s Oscar-winning documentary “If You Love This Planet,” Dr. Helen Caldicott inspired a generation to work toward nuclear disarmament. Dr. Caldicott continues her mission with her most recent books Nuclear Power is Not the Answer and War in Heaven. Everyone welcome. Sponsored by the Faculty of Information and Media Studies, the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, the Global and Ecosystem Health Interest Group at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Physicians for Global Survival, and the McConnell Family Foundation. For more information, please call 519-661-3542.

Friday Oct 16th 7pm
Age of Stupid - UWO Screening Fundraiser for C-Day (October 24th)
Venue: UWO Campus, UCC, Council Chambers (3rd floor rm 315)
For more information email Dan at scalpitch@hotmail.com.

Friday Oct 16th 7:30pm
“THE LAST STAND; A JOURNEY THROUGH THE ANCIENT CLIFF-FACE FOREST OF THE NIAGARA ESCARPMENT” Peter Kelly, Professor of Botany at the University of Guelph and author of the book “The Last Stand; A Journey Through the Ancient Cliff-face Forest of the Niagara Escarpment” will speak about how the most ancient and least disturbed forest ecosystem in eastern North America clings to the vertical cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Contact number: (519) 649-4168. Where: Civic Garden Complex, Springbank Drive, west of Wonderland Road. Hosted by: McIlwraith Field Naturalists. FREE

Saturday, Oct 17th 1-4pm
Tree Planting - Briscoe Woods, Briscoe Street and Highwood Ave.
Join Friends of the Coves and ReForest London as we naturalize an area of Briscoe Woods, part of the Coves ESA. By bus: Emery Street bus (11) to Highwood Ave. Limited street parking in the neighbourhood. ReForest London invites people of all ages and abilities to join us planting 2,000 trees and shrubs this fall. Please bring water, wear proper footwear (no sandals), and dress for the weather. Bring a shovel if you can, but we have lots of tools to share. Planting trees with us is a great way for secondary students to earn volunteer hours. You don't need to sign up to volunteer -- just come ready to work and have some fun. For more information call 519-936-9548.

Saturday Oct 17th 1pm
McIlwraith Field Naturalists - Walk:SIFTON BOG ESA. Meet the leader at the entrance to the bog on Oxford Street, west of Hyde Park Road for a walk through this unique environment. For more information call 519-657-2424. FREE

Saturday Oct 17th 7:00 pm
Film Screening: "Be the Change" documentary about a group of grassroots citizens in the Ottawa area who are attempting to live more lightly on the earth. Venue: Hyde Park United Church. Hosted by: Waste Free World. Admission: by donation.

Sunday Oct 18th 1:30
McIlwraith Field Naturalists - Walk:SPRINGWATER CONSERVATION AREA. Meet in the southwest corner of the parking lot at the Flying J on Highbury Avenue just south of Highway 401. From there, the group will proceed to the conservation area near Aylmer to enjoy the fall colours. For more information call 519-680-7250. FREE

Tuesday Oct 20th 11am-9pm
The ROBERT BATEMAN Art Show event will feature:
• Extensive collection of Robert Bateman art for sale, spanning 35 years
• 2:30pm Presentation by Earth Day Canada on environmental education
• 3:00pm Robert Bateman will speak on environmental issues and campaigns he leads
• 7:30pm Presentation by Dr. Jeremy McNeil, Professor - UWO, "Chemical Ecology: Listening to Mother Nature."
• Personalization of all art purchased at the show by Robert Bateman
• Viewing of latest Robert Bateman releases
• Raffle of Robert Bateman limited edition framed print
Venue: Carousel Room - Western Fairgrounds
For more information email eagleart@bellnet.ca or call 905-642-2279.

Thursday Oct 22nd, 6:30 arrivals, 7pm speaker
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (NOTE: DIFFERENT DAY)
Join us as we welcome Brian Salt and explore how our everyday actions can make a big difference in the lives of animals and the preservation of our natural environment. Brian’s presentation will introduce us to the uniqueness and diversity of Ontario wildlife and the work that Salthaven does to help sick, injured or orphaned wild animals. The presentation is well laid out within the context of a power point and is replete with pictures and stories of past patients and their releases back to the wild. For more information visit www.salthaven.org. Venue: The Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street in the heart of downtown London.

Saturday Oct 24th
International Day of Climate Action
Visit 350.org for more information on climate change, the significance of "350", and the International Day of Climate Action. You can search there for Climate Actions taking place in our city or find ideas on how to plan your own action for the day. Local Events:

-350 Climate Action Gathering - Organizer: Maryanne M - maryanne.macd@gmail.com
-Here comes the sun - 350 Solar Installations - Organizer: Cory M (Council of Canadians)
-350 Run / Speaker Series - Organizer: Margo R - mritchie@csj.london.on.ca
-C-Day: Fill the Hill - Organized Bus Trip to Ottawa (Parliament Hill) http://www.climateday.ca + http://www.facebook.com/event.php?invites&eid=170273650336

Monday Oct 26th 7-9pm
The Gift of Loose Tea - Central Library
Sample the wonderful taste and aroma of tea, and discover the environmental and health benefits of loose tea. Learn how tea is grown, graded and properly brewed, as well as the history behind various types and traditions. Embrace tea as it was meant to be. Venue: Central 1st Floor Stevenson & Hunt B

Tuesday Oct 27th 7:30 - 9:00 pm
SPEAKER: Paul Hawken, Enviromentalist, Entrepreneur, Journalist and Author
Topic: "The Growing Global Movement of Groups Confronting Environmental Damage and Economic Injustice: What’s Going Right in the World?" For more information on Paul visit www.paulhawken.com .
Beyond Tinkering: Growing an Inclusive Community - Lecture 2 of 4 Part Series
Join the Sisters of St. Joseph for the rest of this four part lecture series. All lectures will be held at Brescia University College . 1285 Western Rd, London

Sunday Nov 1st 1:30pm
McIlwraith Field Naturalists - STROLL at FANSHAWE CONSERVATION AREA
Meet the leader at the Fanshawe Dam for an easy stroll to enjoy late fall. Enter the park via the Clarke Road entrance and proceed past the gatehouse. Turn left at the administration buildings and park on the south side of the river by the dam. Call 519-438-5879 for more details, if required. FREE

London’s Environmentally Sensitive Areas set to be PAVED!!!!

2009-10-02T11:50:00.005-04:00

CITY STAFF SET TO PAVE A PATH THROUGH THE MEDWAY VALLEY HERITAGE FOREST

I am writing to solicit your assistance with stopping the City, in its infinite wisdom, from vandalizing Environmentally Significant Areas in London. The next target - the Medway Valley Heritage Forest.

Although this Forest may not be in your neighbourhood it is important to all London citizens and to future generations. City staff have plans to put ASPHALT multi-use pathways in all Environmentally Significant Areas. http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Parks_and_Natural_Areas/Park_construction.htm

Please help in the following ways:

1. Read the entire e-mail to understand what you are asked to do and then send a letter to Jeff Bruin (jbruin@london.ca). Please do so by October 20th to state your concern over the construction of this pathway and bridge. Copy your city councillor, the Mayor, the controllers and all the other councillors. They represent all of Londoners and need to hear from you. Incorporate the information from this e-mail into yours using your own words. Jeff is the city planner leading this project.
2. Forward this e-mail to others on your mailing list asking them to also respond to the 1st point.

The addresses below are for : Anne-Marie DeCicco, Bill Armstrong, Bernie MacDonald, Paul Hubert, Bud Polhill, Cheryl Miller, David Winninger, Gord Hume, Harold Usher, Joni Baechler, Judy Bryant, Nancy Branscombe, Paul VanMeerbergen, Roger Caranci, Susan Eagle, Stephen Orser, Tom Gosnell, Gina Barber, Walter Lonc.

You can find out who your councilor is at: http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/City_Council/default.htm

Like the Mayor, Gosnell, Hume, Barber and Polhill represent the entire city on Board of Control.

adecicco@london.ca, barmstro@london.ca, bmacdona@london.ca, phubert@london.ca bpolhill@london.ca, cmiller@london.ca, dwinning@london.ca, ghume@london.ca, husher@london.ca, jbaechler@london.ca, jbryant@london.ca, nbransco@london.ca, pvanmeer@london.ca, rcaranci@london.ca, seagle@london.ca, sorser@london.ca, tgosnell@london.ca, gbarber@london.ca, wlonc@london.ca.

The Issue:

* City staff are proposing to construct a 3-meter wide (with a one meter clearance on both sides) asphalt-multi-use pathway and bridge through the Medway Valley and Elsie Perrin Williams Estate.
* This path will go right through the middle of an Environmentally Significant Area (ESA).
* A 3-meter wide path is as wide as right-turn lanes on major roads in London, 5 meters wide is wider than most double driveways.
* Vegetation will be cleared - including shrubs and large trees.
* Reptiles will sun themselves on the asphalt and end up being hit by fast moving bikes
* Small mammals will not cross the asphalt due to the fact they will be out in the open and susceptible to predation by hawks etc.
* Compaction of the soil due to construction will destroy the root systems and natural decomposers
* The City has laid out the objective to put pathways in all ESAs in its draft Recreation Master Plan update. ESA's are not parks and should not be treated as parks - they need to be free of or have minimal manmade structures.

WHY is this happening?

The Planners get paid to plan and this is their plan so they want to proceed - they are not environmentalists or naturalists - they like to see roads and development.

The Parks and Recreation Department takes care of parks so they want to see "parks". But Parks staff use trucks to enter pathways for maintenance and the Upper Thames Conservation Authority under contract to the city cuts down “hazard” trees that are too close to the pathway and generally become an added expense (YOUR TAX PAYING DOLLARS) when the number of parks that require maintenance increase.

The City says that they are doing this according to the recommendations of the Bicycle Master Plan. This plan is about accommodating bicycles not about protecting the natural environment. I am aware of one individual who has ridden his bicycle on every bike path in this city and seen every park that the current bike paths are connected to and he is adamant that the Medway should not be turned into a park and pathway for bicycles.

ESA's need protection from those who are not forward enough thinking to see that the natural environment is more integral to our existence as a species than the built environment.

The Place we want to Protect for all Londoners and for future generations:

The Medway Valley is a very beautiful and essential part of London and a natural jewel in the heart of the City. We have photographed over 80 bird species within 600 metres of the proposed bridge. There are fox, deer, wild turkeys, weasels, skunks, muskrat, beaver, squirrels, chipmunks, groundhogs and cottontails and several other small mammals making the Medway Valley their home. Trilliums, dogtoothed violets, jack-in-the-pulpit, skunk cabbage, marsh marigolds and several other beautiful wildflowers are visible in the spring. With increased human activity each of these species of flora and fauna retreat to smaller and smaller spaces and will eventually disappear unless the area remains undeveloped and protected.

With the proposed changes, what I see happening in a few years is that the Medway will be another Springbank Park where the City will use your tax dollars to cut the grass and plant flowers rather than letting you enjoy nature as it was intended - without manmade structure and interference.

Each year there is more and more proof about the benefits of naturalization - it is even noted on the back of page 16 in the new London Waste Reduction and Conservation Calendar that you received this week. It states: "Naturalization is planting and designing green spaces (both public and private) using native species in an effort to restore the natural environment."

But Medway....it is ALREADY a natural environment and it will soon be compromised so bikers can get from one neighbourhood to another faster.

It seems in this City the desires of the human species take precedence over the needs of other species and the need to protect the environment that is designed to freely give us what we need to live.

Some questions:

* When will we learn that once it is gone it is gone forever? Introducing more bikes into the Medway Valley will do nothing but destroy the ecology.
* There is already a bike route around the Valley. Why is this one needed?
* Why not spend more energy and money on wider and safer bike routes on our city streets?
* Does the environment always have to take a backseat to our human wishes for convenience?
* Canadian Federation of Municipalities estimates that a good ratio of forest canopy, to be a truly balanced community, is 35-40% - in London we have a paltry 11% cover.

This bike path is being put in mainly for pleasure. Just imagine how pleasurable it will be to have increased numbers of humans on bicycles if you are an animal or plant living in the valley. The bike although better transportation than a car is still a vehicle that is capable of doing a lot of damage and does not belong in a sensitive natural area.

The city cites that they want a more active community of citizens. Then the + $200,000 dollars could be spent on getting people active in their own neighbourhoods, making the neighbourhoods walkable and safe for children to ride their bikes, rather spending the dollars on a pathway that the environmentalists, naturalists and other concerned citizens do not see as needed or helpful to future generations.

By the way this is not a Not In My Back Yard issue …. this is an issue for the entire community of London. If this bridge and pathway go through then the other ESAs are compromised as well. If this bridge and pathway go through then our future generations will not have access to a beautiful natural environment. The City's DRAFT Parks and Recreation Master Plan calls for 3-meter paved paths through all the city's ESA's. NO NO NO we cannot let them do this........

Link to further information: http://medwayvalley.wordpress.com/ and http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Parks_and_Natural_Areas/MedwayValleyBridge.htm

Once it is gone it is gone....they are NOT making any more natural areas.

In the words of Joni Mitchell let's not "pave paradise"

PLEASE communicate with the City staff and councillors and tell them to stop this unnecessary destruction of our natural environment and wanton waste of our taxpaying dollars.

The planet thanks you and so do I.
--
Maryanne MacDonald
www.wastefreeworld.org
www.wastefreeworld.blogspot.com

"Our best option is to become involved and take action. Otherwise we leave our destiny up to the decisions and actions of others."

Environmental and Ecological Planning Advisory Committee Seeking New Members

2009-09-30T22:03:00.001-04:00

As an Advisory Committee to the City of London, the Environmental and Ecological Planning Advisory Committee (EEPAC) focusses on environmental and natural area issues, usually related in some way to City Planning. Areas of involvement include:
- most development proposals in the City where natural areas might be impacted
- proposing policy and procedure improvements to enhance natural area protection and enhancement
- environmental initiatives related to environmental planning

More information about the scope, work and schedule of EEPAC, as well as an an application form, can be found on the City website at www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Committees_and_Task_Forces/EEPAC.htm or follow links City Hall / Committees and Task Forces / Advisory Committees.

To apply, a person need only complete the online application form.

Typically, members with knowledge in fields such as geography, biology, ecology, environmental planning are sought, as EEPAC also reviews Natural Heritage Studies and Environmental Impact Studies as well as conducting technical evaluations to recommend protection of natural areas. However, knowledge of these fields is not mandatory, so don't be scared off. Energy and committment is also important.
I would be very pleased to answer any questions, by email or phone, on the workings, subjects, time committment of EEPAC etc. Alternatively, interested persons can contact the Committee Secretary at City Hall, Lorelei Fisher, 519-661-2500 ext 5417.

Regards,
Dean Sheppard,
Chair, EEPAC

3 abandoned cats and a dog in need of a new home.

2009-09-14T22:49:00.017-04:00

If anyone has the room and a love of animals please consider adopting one or both of these cats. Winter is coming.
THEY ARE STILL THERE (as of SEPT.30th). PLEASE CALL IF YOU CAN HELP.

Hi Tiffany,

I have a really big favour...

My friend lives on Simcoe Street. There are two abandoned cats in her neighbourhood, and she is unable to take them in. She has contacted several agencies and they have no room in foster care. If you could post these notices over the Green Drinks e-mail list that would be such a kindness. Usually she is able to find homes for the many strays that turn up in the area. This time she needs help.

Thank you very much,

Maureen
----------------------------------------------------

Here are the descriptions:

Willie, a neutered black-and-white male cat, very affectionate, needs a home, loves being petted. He was abandoned and has been living on a friendly neighbor's verandah, but winter is coming. Was obviously used to living indoors but has been living in a wicker chair for a few months now. If you'd like to give Willie a home, call 519-667-1603.

Young, black-and-white cat, with white on stomach, under chin and on paws, very affectionate. May be male or female. Abandoned when owners moved to B.C. Needs a home ASAP - Animal Control is lurking in the Simcoe Street neighborhood. Not certain if neutered or spayed. If you'd like to meet this kitty, call 519-667-1603.

-------------------

KITTENS
Hey friends,

I rescued a stray cat who was pregnant and she's now had 5 adorable kittens. They will be up for 'forever' homes in November. (I'll be adopting mom).

There is also a sweet black & white 5 year old male cat who needs a permanent or foster home... no photo but I've cuddled with him.

AND this stray dog was taking in by a friend.

There are SO many cats and dogs on kijiji and in the shelters/foster homes. Please check these rescue groups first if you are going to get a pet and then make sure to spay and neuter them once home.

Elinor (elinor.s@rogers.com)

EcoLiving London... coming soon, coming soon, yes, yes, coming soon!

2009-09-09T14:23:00.001-04:00

The New GreenDrinks Poster

2009-09-01T21:03:00.007-04:00

It’s here and it’s beautiful!

The posters will be displayed at hundreds of locations around the city in the hopes of growing our little community and reaching more of our 350,000+ population.

A sincere thank you to the five local sponsors who made it possible - check out their profiles below. And another thank you to Trae Robinson and Carol Richardson for being the first to donate privately to our little project. Since the business sponsorships were enough to cover our costs we were able to re-gift them back their original donation so that they could find another worthy cause to support. Thanks again Trae & Carol for believing in what we do.

If you have any questions about the poster/sponsorships or would like to put one up at your workplace please feel free to contact me directly at greendrinks.london@gmail.com. Tiffany

SPONSOR PROFILE: Phil Spoelstra, REMAX EcoAgent

2009-09-01T12:14:00.003-04:00

Phil Spoelstra is a RE/MAX agent who is trained in home efficiency and conducts his real estate work in a sustainable manner. As a certified Eco Agent, Phil believes strongly in a lifestyle where a home is at the core of your sustainability, its location and features aiding in your efforts to live a life that is kinder to our earth and to you, your family, and neighbours. Buying and selling a home with Phil is always carbon neutral and helps to support local initiatives like GreenDrinks and EcoLiving London. You can reach Phil online through www.realtylondon.ca or at 519-870-7325 to make an appointment to meet with him or have him conduct a free eco evaluation on your home prior to selling.

SPONSOR PROFILE: Carolinian Winery

2009-09-01T12:13:00.002-04:00

The Carolinian Winery specializes in fruit and grape/fruit blended wines utilizing fruit grown organically and with environmental sensitivity in mind. Owned and operated by Barry and Anissa Foley since 2004, Carolinian Winery's offerings are developed and produced on site, with blends using fruit direct from their farm fields. A true 'family business' success story, you'll taste the attention to detail in every glass of their original blend of fruit wine. In-season fruit is also available at the farm for purchase either as you-pick or pre-picked options. The winery is located east of London on Hwy 2 (Dundas Street), 1 km east of Shaw Side Road, 519-286-2000 or at www.carolinianwinery.com.

SPONSOR PROFILE: The Fire Roasted Coffee Co.

2009-09-01T12:09:00.002-04:00

"Your Local Community Fair Trade Coffee Roaster”.

At FRC we love our coffee, so much so that we stock the widest selection of coffee in Canada. But it isn't only about our selection, we know coffee. Our roasting style has developed a devoted following and we have a reputation of having the freshest coffee available anywhere. We also have a kindred spirit with home roasters as that is how we started as well. All our coffees are available unroasted for you to enjoy with your own special roasting style. While we love variety (we stock both Fair Trade and Non Fair Trade) we will always carry fairly traded and organic products in first priority if we can get them. In the long run with your support we intend to establish direct trade with the producing countries to benefit them in a more substantial way. To learn more about our business visit us at www.fireroastedcoffee.com.

SPONSOR PROFILE: Accell Graphics

2009-09-01T12:02:00.001-04:00

What is “green?” At Accell Graphics we believe green is an on-going and balanced approach to manufacturing product that reduces the impact on the environment while making it economically viable for our customers. We also encourage our clients to make informed decisions while producing greener products, and help them to educate their market on their efforts to be environmentally friendly. As an environmentally responsible print supplier, Accell Graphics has numerous “green” certifications that our clients can take advantage of. Help promote your green initiatives through the use of the following certified on-product labelling and verifiable statements. • FSC Certified Paper • SFI Certified Paper • Createdgreen.com • Bullfrog Power • Soy Ink • Chlorine-Free Paper • Chemistry-Free. Visit us at www.accellgraphics.com.

SPONSOR PROFILE: City of London (Environmental Programs & Solid Waste)

2009-09-01T11:54:00.005-04:00

Protecting London’s environment and living sustainably must be a top priority for all. Visit the following City of London websites for tips to improve comfort, save money, improve your health and take action on the environment year round:
www.clear.london.ca; www.london.ca/energysaver; www.energuide.london.ca; www.london.carpoolzone.ca and www.london.ca.
Make a commitment. Build environmental actions into your household lifestyle.

September: Events Around the City

2009-08-31T18:31:00.015-04:00

Tues Sept 1st
Herb Walk @ The Living Centre
Experience the array of edible herbs and plant medicine through the various seasons. Come to one, a Series, or attend all of them. There are thousands of species of edible and medicinal Plants in the world, yet fewer than 20 species provide 90% of our food. There are hundreds of less well known delicious and nutritious edible plants that live in our back yards and fields. Find out if they're in your back yard! Come out with your harvesting basket and take home some of the bounty. Each walk will be totally unique as we focus on what's in season and is at its peak. Herb Walk Guide: Shantree Kacera, D.N. Ph.D. For more information visit www.thelivingcentre.com.

Thurs Sept 10th 6pm
Live Long and Healthy: How to Create a Disease Free Future
Location: Central Library, Wolf Hall
Speaker: Dr. Brian Clement - author, internationally renowned speaker, and director of the Hippocrates Health Institute in Florida. Dr.Clement has an enormous knowledge on the topic of health, longevity, disease prevention and nutrition and over 30 years of experience working in this field of study. For more information visit www.hippocratesinst.org. The talk will be free, no registration required.

Thurs Sept 10th 7:30pm
TREA Public Meeting
Location: Grosvenor Lodge - 1017 Western Road.
Topic: Open fire burning and our health. Visit http://www.trea.ca/Welcome_To_TREA.htm for more details.

Mon Sept 14th 7pm
Parks and Recreation Master Plan Public Meeting - Community Gardens/Bike Paths etc. What is needed for a stable enduring community garden system? How should we plan the future development of the city's bike path systems? Join us for a public meeting that will influence policy surrounding our public green spaces. Location: City Hall at the Community and Protective Services Committee regular meeting. For more info visit http://www.london.ca/d.aspx?s=/Reference_Documents/RecMasterPlanInfo.htm or contact the Clerks Office at (519-661-2500) or simply show up on that day.

Wed Sept 16th 6:30pm (NOTE: DIFFERENT DAY)
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Ian Colin James
Ian Colin James is a fly fishing guide, national best selling author and a conservationist. In January of 2009, he began teaching the first accredited fly fishing course in Canada at Fanshawe College. Ian is well known for his quick, dry Scottish wit and his after dinner speaking engagements have taken him all across Canada and the USA. Ian has been involved in the Springbank Dam fiasco for 8 years and that's what he is going to chat about at GreenDrinks. If you want to know anything about the fish and the wildlife along the Thames river, this is probably your best chance to find out as Ian spends a lot of time guiding there. Join us at The Morrissey House, 359 Dundas Street in the heart of downtown London.

Sat Sept 19th 1-4pm
Tree Planting w/ Reforest London
Location: Fido Pottersburg Park, at the intersection of Gore and Hamilton Roads
Go Green with the London Knights! Players with the London Knights will be planting trees with ReForest London from 1-3pm. Tree planting continues until 4pm. By bus: Hamilton Road bus (3) to Gore. Parking at the dog park. Please bring water, wear proper footwear (no sandals), and dress for the weather. Bring a shovel if you can, but we have lots of tools to share. Planting trees with us is a great way for secondary students to earn volunteer hours. You don't need to sign up to volunteer -- just come ready to work and have some fun. More information at 519-936-9548 or visit http://www.reforestlondon.ca/news/plant-trees-us-fall.

Sat Sept 19th
Doors Open London is an annual heritage event that invites the public to learn about the city’s past by taking free tours of London’s best heritage sites. Various Architecture & Heritage Venues, London, ON. For more info call (519) 930-2140 or visit http://www.doorsopenlondon.ca/ .

Sat Sept 19th & Sun Sept 20th 10 - 4pm
Doors Open in the Coves - Friends of the Coves
Come check out the coves environmentally significant area… our doors are open! There will be an informative display and volunteers on-hand to answer questions at the north end of the West Pond. Guided tours will leave the display at approximately 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15 and 3:15 and will lead from the West Pond to the East Pond. This will be an easy-going walk mostly following a mowed path. The guide will highlight various Friends of the Coves Subwatershed project sites along the way, including a native plant butterfly garden and naturalization areas. (accessed via Greenside Ave., north off of Springbank Dr.). Parking is available in the first parking lot along Greenside Ave. Everyone is welcome. Please keep dogs on a leash and pick up after them. Unleash your curiosity and discover London's meaningful stories and spaces. Experience everything Uniquely London! For more info visit http://www.thecoves.ca/events.php.

Sat Sept 19th 12-4pm
Fall Plant Sale - Civic Garden Complex
Don't miss this chance to purchase locally produced and/or reused plant material at reasonable rates... Civic Garden Complex, 625 Springbank Drive. CASH OR CHEQUE ONLY. This sale takes advantage of the City of London staff’s dividing and removal of overgrown/unwanted perennials, bulbs, trees and shrubs. Bulbs are most often new varieties and of good quality. Perennials, house plants, seasonal & tropical potted arrangements, trees, shrubs, and bulbs will be available for sale. Fall is a great time to plant perennials, shrubs, trees and some bulbs. Do you have perennials that need dividing or a shrub you would like to remove? Do you have unwanted house plants? DON'T THROW THEM OUT! Plant donations are accepted. Please drop plant donations off at the rear of the Civic Garden Complex between September 15th and 26th - 8 am to 3 pm.

Sun Sept 20th 12-5pm
A Slow Taste of Southern Ontario
Slow Food London is proud to announce an annual event that celebrates our incredible northern bounty, while supporting a local charity. This year our charity is Growing Chefs Ontario. This event will feature over 25 participants and offers guests an opportunity to sample and learn about local/organic food, as well as, interact with local farmers, chefs, vinters and micro-brewers. Everyone producing a dish has been given the challenge to come up with an innovative way to serve his or her item to keep the event green. All guests receive a complimentary sampling glass upon entry.
Where: Foley Farms and Carolinian Winery - 4824 Dundas, London, Ontario (just past Trails End Market)
Tickets: Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Sampling tickets can be purchased at the time of entry.
Tickets are available at:
• Fire Roasted Coffee Co. - Roastery (3392 Wonderland Rd Building 7 Unit 6)
• London Farmers Markets (Masonville, Western Fair, and Trailsend)
• Books for Cooks – Covent Garden Market
For more information contact: Convivium leader, Melanie Doerksen at 519.550.2433

Tues Sept 22nd 7pm
Gardeners - Celebration / Discussion / Meeting
Location: East Village Coffeehouse
Lets celebrate the first day of fall over a hot cocoa! This most important of all seasons is surely worth an evening of chatter. What are you doing to wind down your garden? Did you get all your gardening goals completed? Do you have seeds, plants, produce to share? Bring your questions, stories, gardening tips to the coffeehouse for this friendly night of armchair gardening and post-compost relaxation. All are welcome.

Thurs Sept 24th
Living Cuisine Workshop @ The Living Centre
Organically grown raw and living foods are keys to great health and vitality. They are the givers of life energy and the healers of disease. Eating these life-giving foods have proven themselves to be dynamic helpers in the healing of diseases such as diabetes, migraines, asthma, joint pain, fibromyalgia, allergies, colitis, depression, anxiety, cancer and overall stress. Learn to create delicious raw vegan cuisine, that is easy to prepare and suited for a seasonal climate. For more information visit www.thelivingcentre.com.

Fri Sept 25th 12:00 noon
Amazing Tree Quest Awards Luncheon - Museum London
The Amazing Tree Quest was a city-wide contest to celebrate the important role that trees play in our lives. The contest allowed individual Londoners (or anyone from anywhere) to nominate trees located in London, Ontario. Prizes will be awarded in 10 categories, plus a People's Choice Award for the tree that received the most online votes. Tickets are $25 and are available at City Hall - 3rd floor councilors office. Contact 519 661 5095 or jbaechler@london.ca for more information.

Sat Sept 26th 10-2pm
Organize to Win! How citizen groups beat the odds
Citizens' groups are fighting to protect natural spaces, stop incinerators, ensure more sustainable planning, etc. Learn how at the 'Organize to Win' seminar led by Oakville Green Conservation Association President, Liz Benneian, award-winning community activist and environmental leader. Come out and learn some effective strategies that can help your community group or organization.
Where: Crouch Library, 550 Hamilton Road, London
Cost: $10.00 (light morning refreshments will be available and a hot pizza lunch)
For more information please contact Sandy Levin at 519-472-9576 or email s.levin@sympatico.ca or Dorothy Stolarski at 519-686-4358 or email dstolarski@hotmail.com - Friends of Meadowlily Woods - www.meadowlilywoods.ca.

Sat Sept 26th 1-4pm
Tree Planting w/ Reforest London
Location: River Forks Park East, end of Becher Street at the King Street foot bridge
Join the River Fork Community Association, Western students, and ReForest London as we naturalize an area next to the Thames River. By bus: Wharncliffe buses (5, 11, 12, 23) to Becher Street or York Street buses (5, 11, 23) to Horn Street. Park at the Ivey Peace Garden and walk across the bridge. Please bring water, wear proper footwear (no sandals), and dress for the weather. Bring a shovel if you can, but we have lots of tools to share. Planting trees with us is a great way for secondary students to earn volunteer hours. You don't need to sign up to volunteer -- just come ready to work and have some fun. For more information call 519-936-9548 or visit http://www.reforestlondon.ca/news/plant-trees-us-fall.

Tues Sept 29th 7-9pm
Public Participation Meeting: Connection of Windemere and Gainsborough foot path. Public open house at Huron University College, Kingsmill Room.
Reader Comment: What the city is proposing is NOT a foot path. It is a three metre wide asphalt path and bridge across the Medway Creek through an Environmentally Sensitive Area. If you want more information please refer to http://medwayvalley.wordpress.com/

Thurs Oct 1st 7:30pm
"Everything is Connected: Environment, Economy, Foreign Policy, Sustainability, Human Rights and Leadership in the 21st Century" - Nobel Prize Nominee Sheila Watt-Cloutier
Location: Brescia Auditorium. Admission by donation. Suggested Donation: Students/Seniors $10.00, Adult $20.00
For more information: 519-432-8353 x28288, circle@uwo.ca, www.brescia.uwo.ca/sophia. Sponsored by iWIL - The Institute for Women in Leadership.

94.9 CHRW looking for people to host GREENWORLD

2009-08-28T12:59:00.003-04:00

CHRW 94.9 FM is currently looking for eco-conscious Londoners to assist with its weekly environmental talk show Greenworld. The show is broadcast live every Friday from 11am until noon and focuses on environmental news from London and surrounding areas. Hosts would be required to conduct live and pre-recorded depth interviews with a range of local people involved in the environmental movement and keep CHRW listeners up-to-date with events in the community. Broadcasting experience is desirable but essential training will be provided. If you are interested or would like more information please email CHRW's Spoken Word Director,Bronwen Loden at chrwnd@chrwradio.com or call her at 519 661 2111 ex 84712.

CHRW 94.9 FM is a campus-based community radio station serving the Greater London community. For more information about the station please visit www.chrwradio.com.

Carolinian Winery - Tour, Talk & Tasting

2009-08-19T09:58:00.005-04:00

What a fantastic evening!

Thank you to Anissa for the wonderful hospitality, and to everyone who made it out and made it fun.

You can click on the title of this post to view our photo album.

THE BIG ASK - video clip

2009-08-12T21:42:00.004-04:00

We need strong leadership on climate change. Too many politicians are happy to speak about the issue, but their promises have often turned out to be just a load more hot air. One exception is the United Kingdom, where a climate law has just been adopted, which will force the government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions every year.
We need your help to ensure that other governments follow this example.

On 10th August, more than 6,000 people took part in the recording of The Big Ask-video clip at Ostende on the Belgian coast. This was the largest event against climate change ever organised in Belgium. The film clip was made possible due to the engagement of volunteers from Friends of the Earth, and many film industry professionals including award winning director Nic Balthazar, film crews, production houses, actors, ... Music has been supplied by Hooverphonic.

The video clip has been launched, and now is the time to send it round the world, and to share it with everyone you know!

You can view the clip in english at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kRP5x2MsAw or by clicking on the title of this post.

After you've watched the clip, do something, ACT NOW! Send the clip to politicians in your own country, and send the clip to friends, family, and colleagues.

Pedal for the Planet - London August 29th

2009-08-11T22:07:00.008-04:00

From Canada to Copenhagen: TAKE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE!

A new climate treaty will be negotiated during international climate talks in Copenhagen, Denmark, December 7-18, 2009. Canada now stands out as one of the last major industrialized countries opposed to targets for deep reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The 2008 Poznan climate conference proved to be a low point for Canada. It was given the infamous "Colossal Fossil" award for doing the most to block progress. Canada's obstructive role constitutes a significant barrier to reaching a comprehensive agreement in Copenhagen.

The Pedal for the Planet project is our chance for individuals, organizations and communities to join together, to ensure that Canada does its fair share to tackle the climate crisis. Starting on July 3, people across the country will join rides and walks leaving the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Using bikes, trains and other modes of green transport, we will demonstrate our personal commitment to change, and relay our expectations for a Copenhagen climate treaty on to Ottawa.

Cyclists will be leaving Windsor on August 24. They will reach London on the 26th and spend the next 2 days there i.e. Aug 27th and 28th. Stay tuned for more event details.

August: Events Around the City

2009-08-02T21:36:00.010-04:00

Sat August 1st 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Animal Rescue Foundation - Meet & Greet (Puppies and dogs)
This 100% volunteer organization finds permanent and loving homes for unwanted strays. Meet the doggies, learn how to select to right dog for your family and find out about adoption.

Sun August 2nd 2:30pm (Repeat Performances - August 5 & 7 @ 2:30pm as well)
My Earth & Me - Storybook Gardens
Diane Halpin - Storybook Gardens Resident Storyteller for Summer 2009 tells the tale of some of our very own Storybook animal friends.

Thurs August 6th
Heather Whaley @ Storybook Gardens
Listen as Heather recounts personal nature stories and uses interactive songs to teach about the world around us.

Sun August 9th 2:00-5:00pm
Community Garden Walking Tour
Get started growing your own food, with your friends and neighbours! Starts: 2:00 PM, at Peace Gardens, Forks of the Thames, West end of King St. Ends: 5:00 PM back at Peace Gardens, with shared refreshments and conversation. Get to know three Community Gardens on this gentle family-friendly walking tour, which will visit the Forks of the Thames, Ann Street, and Blackfriars Community Gardens, with knowledgeable guest speakers and a chance to chat with local gardeners at each stop on the tour. We will end up back at the Peace Gardens, with a social gathering featuring local fruit and refreshments. Contact events at postcarbonlondon.ca or 519-432-0235.

Mon August 10th 6:30 - 9:00PM
Benefit for Lucy the Asian Elephant
Join us for an evening of fantastic vegetarian food, great discussion and music at Veg Out - London, Ontario's newest vegetarian restaurant. A special meal has been created in honour of Lucy. Venue: Veg Out Restaurant - 646 Richmond Street Doors Open: 6.30 pm, Food served: 7 pm.
WHO IS LUCY?
Lucy is a female asian elephant living alone in a small enclosure at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. Zoocheck has been campaigning to convince the City of Edmonton and the Valley Zoo to relocate Lucy to a sanctuary in the USA. Lucy suffers from a variety of health issues and endures an undersized, boring enclosure and lack of contact with other elephants. Several thousand letters urging that Lucy be moved have already been received by the City of Edmonton, but it is important that momentum be maintained - so the topic is not forgotten. A petition has been set up urging council to take action on Lucy's behalf, please sign (it only takes a minute) and send it to everyone on your e-list.
MENU - Salad course: Fruit layered spinach salad and carmelised frisée; served with coconut-mango coulis and a green apple foam. Hot Appetizer: Sweet potato fennel ravioli with a walnut "gorgonzola" cream sauce and roasted red pepper compote. Entrée: Grilled provencial vegetables & young red potatoes, tempura basil and seared tempeh, topped with olive tapenade and a cherry tomato-olive salsa. Dessert: Deep fried banana in a puddle of caramel, with chocolate, raspberry white chocolate and peanut butter mousses drizzled in date water.
TICKETS: Tickets: $40 each. Only 30 tickets available, so don't delay. Available at Veg Out (519) 850-8688 or by calling Zoocheck Canada (416) 285-1744.

Wed August 12th 6-8pm
EcoLiving London: London's Environmental Evolution
If you are interested in living more sustainably, but have no idea where to begin, you aren't alone. Searching for "green" resources in London often feels like looking for that needle in the hay stack. How can we make things better? Join us to explore Londons current Environmental State of the City, what is happening in other municipalities, and how EcoLiving London is going to help bring us up to speed with the rest of the province, the rest of the country, the rest of the world by making information easily accessible to all Londoners. Presented by Tiffany Roschkow, Coordinator - GreenDrinks London. Location: Central Library, 1st floor

Sat August 15th & Sun August 16th
Harvest Fest - A Fanshawe Pioneer Village Signature Event
Harvest Fest offers something for everyone in a weekend filled with activity. Threshing, exhibits, a non-denominational church service, rare breeds displays, musical entertainment and classic cars are but a few of the many sights and sounds of Harvest Fest. Reserve your own Thesherman’s Lunch at the Pioneer Village Café. For more information please call Fanshawe Pioneer Village at 519-457-1296 or visit the website www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca.

Sat August 15th
London Dragon Boat Festival - Fanshawe Conservation Area
The 17th Annual London Dragon Boat Festival takes place August 15th at Fanshawe Conservation Area. For additional information please call 519-872-6961 or visit the website www.dragonboatlondon.ca.

Tues August 18th 6:30pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Carolinian Winery Tour, Talk & Tasting
The Carolinian Winery specializes in fruit and grape/fruit blended wines utilizing fruit grown organically and with environmental sensitivity in mind. Owned and operated by Barry and Anissa Foley since 2004, Carolinian Winery's offerings are developed and produced onsite, with blends using fruit direct from their farm fields. A true 'family business' success story, you'll taste the attention to detail in every glass of their original blend of fruit wine. In-season fruit is also available at the farm for purchase as either ‘u-pick’ or pre-pick option. The winery is located east of London on Hwy 2 (Dundas Street), 1 km east of Shaw Side Road. We will be arranging bike groups and carpool.$5/person.

Fri August 21st 7:00p.m.
An Evening with Adriane Carr
Venue: Forest City Eagles Aerie - 500 First Street
Light refreshments served. Cash bar. Entertainment. Silent auction. Hosted by Southwestern Ontario Green Party. Tickets limited to 140. $10.00 in advance $12.00 at the door. For more information or to obtain tickets contact: Inge Stahl, CEO London Fanshawe Greens 519-686-1946 or istahl@execulink.com

Thursday, Aug 27th, 2009 5:30pm
SUSTAINABILITY AND THE SEMINAR SERIES
Topic: Wind & Solar - What Works and What Doesn’t
Location: Lambton College - 1457 London Road, Sarnia, ON, Room N105 (south entrance of the college)
Speakers:
Maike Luiken, Ph.D., Chair, IEEE London Section, Dean, Sustainability, Business Development & Applied Research
David Cooke, President and CTO—True-North Power NG Inc.
Cost: Free
For more information visit www.bluewatersustainabilityinitiative.com.

Sun August 30th 1:00-4:00 pm
5th Annual Corn Roast - Museum London Wolf Sculpture Garden
Join London artist and rogue roaster Ron Benner at his garden installation ‘As the Crow Flies’ for a corn roast. Part sculpture, part installation and part performance, the event will feature Benner's roving corn roasting wagon Maiz Barbacoa. The site-specific piece first exhibited in Montreal in 1984 after years of researching features a pond, garden and corn plants surrounded by black and white laminated photographs that trace the militarization of food and society, as well as themes of activism, environmentalism and global food politics. Musician Frank Risdale will entertain us with his resolute songs of political misdemeanours covering a wide geographical range from the Port Stanley harbour to Latin American revolutionary songs. The London native and his band Slugfest are best known for their 2006 CD "The Port", which pays homage to the Lake Erie beach he visited as a child and performed at as an adult.

Downtown Visioning Session - Museum London (tomorrow)

2009-07-28T21:15:00.003-04:00

I thought that some of you might be interested in attending this 'Downtown Master Plan Visioning Session' tomorrow evening (6-9pm) at Museum London - Lorraine Ivey Shuttleworth, Community Gallery.

The Master Plan is intended to build upon the recent successes in the Downtown, and establish a framework for the ongoing revitalization of Downtown London. The Master Plan will serve as the blueprint to achieve the future vision of Downtown, and will include elements such as heritage conservation, urban design guidelines and new policies and programs.

This is a public meeting, so all are welcome; come and have your say.

For more information visit http://www.london.ca/Planning/090716notice.pdf.

GOING NATIVE in the London Free Press

2009-07-25T17:48:00.014-04:00

Hello Everyone, Happy Saturday!

I've spoken quite a bit about the need for a regular and interesting mainstream media outlet that will let every Londoner know about the local resources that can support them in living more sustainably. What I have yet to tell you, is that the lovely Paul Berton (Editor-in-Chief / London Free Press) has given me(us) a shot as a freelance writer, with the possibility of creating a regular 'EcoLiving London' column in the months ahead.

Acting as a mainstream source for 'green' public education this will serve to move a larger portion of our 350,000 population toward local 'green' lifestyle choices. As always, if we work together we can keep it going. I'll pitch the stories (please send any ideas you may have), if you will read them and let Paul(LFP) know you are in support of the column going forward. Since it is freelance, it is free-for-all. This week we're in the HOME section, next week we may be in LIFESTYLE, who knows? The possibilities are endless.

Check out our first article in today's London Free Press.

Saturday - Home Section - "Going Native"

http://www.londonfreepress.com/perl-bin/publish.cgi?x=articles&p=270864&s=homes

***Special thanks to Ben Porchuk for being such a wonderful subject and thought partner in the creation of this article. He also provided the beautiful photography.***

July: Events Around the City

2009-07-09T19:30:00.009-04:00

Tuesday July 14th 7-9 pm
Raw Food Classes - Milks, Pâtés & Sprouting Basics
During this two hour workshop we'll try various nut milks, (including chocolate almond milk), 2 seed cheeses including mock tuna pâté and at least 4 different flavours of sprouts! We'll also chat about the different sprouting methods so that you can determine the best for you! Fee: $40 + gst. To register please email Tiffany at greendrinks.london@gmail.com.

Wednesday July 15th 6:30 PM
Soap Making Workshop - Sparta
Experience the art of soap making. If you are having problems finding a soap that does not leave your skin dry and itchy, sensitive to products on the shelf, or confused with what organic/natural really means this workshop will help you find the answers to your questions. The workshop will run approx 1½ hours and will include take home recipe, instructions and samples of soap made at workshop. Soap and soap making supplies will be available for purchase. Cost: $20+ GST/pp. To register please email Tiffany at greendrinks.london@gmail.com.

Saturday July 18th 2-4pm
EcoLiving London -London's Environmental Evolution
If you are interested in living more sustainably, but have no idea where to begin, you aren’t alone. Searching for "green" resources in London often feels like looking for that needle in the hay stack. How can we make things better? Join us to explore London’s current Environmental State of the City, what is happening in other municipalities, and how EcoLiving London is going to help bring us up to speed with the rest of the province, the rest of the country, the rest of the world by making information easily accessible to all Londoners. Presented by Tiffany Roschkow, Coordinator - GreenDrinks London. Location: Central Library. No Registration Required

Tuesday July 21
GREENDRINKS LONDON
We're taking the month off everyone - - - see you in August.

Tuesday July 21 11-1pm 7-9pm
Herb Walk at The Living Centre
Experience the array of edible herbs and plant medicine through the various seasons. There are thousands of species of edible and medicinal plants in the world, yet fewer than 20 species provide 90% of our food. There are hundreds of lesser well known delicious and nutritious edible plants that live in our back yards and fields. Find out if they're in your back yard! Cost: $25

Tuesday July 21 7-9 pm
Raw Food Classes - Healthy (mostly chocolate) Desserts
We'll prepare delectable brownies, peanut butter squares, chocolate pudding and a strawberry pie -chocked full of nutrients that are oh-so-good for your body! Fee: $40 + gst. To register please email Tiffany at greendrinks.london@gmail.com.

Saturday July 25 - 26
Summer On The Farm
Visit farm families as they bring in the wheat and barley crop from the fields and preserve the garden bounty in the kitchen. For more information please call Fanshawe Pioneer Village at 519-457-1296 or visit the website www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca for additional information.

Friday July 25 - 26 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Garden Gates Open 2009
Don’t be shy! Show us your garden! This is the perfect neighbourhood garden tour where youll find hidden gems in every part of the city. Take a peek at Londons creative garden scene from backyard waterfalls and floral beds to rooftop oasis. Every garden is welcome! Self guided tour time is Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Visit www.londoncib.ca or call 519-439-7120 for additional information.

Tuesday July 28 7-9 pm
Raw Food Classes - A Raw 4-Course Meal
Share in a raw (yet warm) soup, a salad with a raw seed dressing, a main course - lasagna (again warm, but not cooked) and a mystery raw dessert. Fee: $40 + gst. To register please email Tiffany at greendrinks.london@gmail.com.

Tue Jul 28 9am & 7pm
Forest Garden Walk @ The Living Centre
Learn about the Harvest Beneath Your Feet - Growing & Eating for Nourishment & Nourishing the Future "Obviously, few of us are in a position to restore the forests. But tens of millions of us have gardens, or access to open spaces such as industrial wastelands, where trees can be planted. and if full advantage can be taken of the potentialities that are available even in heavily built up areas, new "city forests" can arise..." ~ Robert A.de J.Hart. Cost: $25.

Mon July 27 - August 9
My Earth and Me - StoryBook Gardens
Celebrate and learn about the Earth. Get to know some of Storybook’s famous animal friends, experience the creepy, crawly, slithery world of The Snake Lady, marvel at spectacular birds of prey and enjoy the talented and playful Super Dogs. For more information visit http://www.storybook.london.ca.

Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Centre

2009-07-09T18:49:00.009-04:00

It's a chicken, it's a chicken, two ladies on scooters cried as my Mum and I walked up along the path in Kiwanis Park. Sure enough, there it was, an unidentifiable baby chick, just hangin' out. Not one to leave an animal in distress, we looked around to see if there were any others and when there were no relatives in sight, made the executive decision to carry him home. He was incredibly wiggly and affectionate. Tweeted up a storm if he couldn't be near you, crawling up the sleeve of my cousins housecoat as she lay with him in the grass.

After a few phone calls to animal control and vet emerg, we were referred to the lovely Brian Salt at Salthaven in Mount Bridges (www.salthaven.org), who graciously accepted this little orphan into the warmth of his incubation room, along with a host of other baby ducks, geese, owls, and hawks, who he was in the process of rescuing, raising, and releasing back into the wild.

Good deeds are hard to come by in this fast-paced world, but Brian is picking up the slack by cleaning up the messes that our modern society leaves behind. If you are an animal lover, or even if you're not, visit the website and thank this lovely man with a donation from their wish list or your pocket book. He gets no government funding, he does this work out of the goodness of his heart - and for that I, and the unidentifiable baby chick, are eternally grateful.

P.S. He turned out to be a wild turkey chick.

Jamie’s Fowl Dinners

2009-07-09T18:40:00.005-04:00

I love this man… he’s got such a good honest heart and his findings are very much in line with the way things are done in Canada as well.

In this TV show Jamie takes us on a journey of discovery to see for ourselves how 95% of meat chickens and 63% of egg-laying hens are still intensively farmed in the UK. He highlights the welfare implications for the birds as a result of our persistent demand for cheap food, and will hopefully change the way we shop/eat forever.

Website: http://www.jamieoliver.com/jamiesfowldinners/#

Knowledge is power. Educate yourself so that you can make decisions that are in line with your values.

Help Wanted: Greening of the Pool Industry

2009-07-08T23:24:00.001-04:00

Hi Tiffany,

I am hoping you can post something on your GreenDrinks blog for me. As I told you at our last function I am working with a local pool company. My two major tasks are 1) to come up with opportunities for waste diversion, and 2) to find eco-friendly alternatives for a lot of the hazardous materials being used in construction such as adhesives, bonding agents, cements, acrylics, appoxys etc. The questions I would like posted are:

1. Do you know of any companies that may be interested in the recycle or reuse of PVC piping, Vinyl pool lining, or heavy duty polymer based plastics?

2. Do you have any suggestions for environmentally friendly construction materials hardy enough for pool design?

I figured this might be a good way to gain more information seeing how information appears to be limited particularly in the North American pool industry.

Thanks,
Jen Reid
jreid45@uwo.ca

Auto-ban: German town goes car-free

2009-07-08T23:18:00.000-04:00

Vauban hopes to forge a model community without that great staple of modern life – the car. Now the sound of birdsong has replaced the roar of traffic and children can play in the street.

By Tony Paterson

Friday, 26 June 2009

DANIEL SCHOENEN

In the German town of Vauban the cyclist is king.

The Germans may have given the world the Audi and the autobahn, but they have banished everything with four wheels and an engine from the streets of Vauban – a model brave new world of a community in the country's south-west, next to the borders with Switzerland and France.

In Vauban, a suburb of the university town of Freiburg, luxuriant beds of brilliant flowers replace what would normally be parking outside its neat, middle- class homes. Instead of the roar of traffic, the residents listen to birdsong, children playing and the occasional jingle of a bicycle bell.

"If you want to have a car here, you have to pay about €20,000 for a space in one of our garages on the outskirts of the district," says Andreas Delleske one of the founders and now a promoter of the Vauban project, "but about 57 per cent of the residents sold a car to enjoy the privilege of living here." As a result, most residents travel by bike or use the ultra-efficient tram service that connects the suburb with the centre of Freiburg, 15 minutes away. If they want a car to go on holiday or to shift things, they hire one or join one of the town's car-sharing schemes.

"BUY IN" TO ORGANIC PRODUCE

2009-06-23T21:15:00.008-04:00

Fresh, local, organic veggies all summer long... what could be better than that?

London City Farm is fully planted and ready to sell garden shares for the season. For only $20/week you can pick up your basket at:

- Covent Garden Farmers Market (Thursday or Saturday)
- Masonville Mall Farmers Market (Friday)
- Western Fair Farmers Market (Saturday)

Or you can harvest your own at the garden on Monday evenings from 6pm to 8pm.

What is London City Farm?
We are a not-for-profit urban farm dedicated to cultivating heirloom varieties of food by organic methods. These are varieties that have been bred for taste and nutrition, not for travel across the country. You'll be delighted and surprised at the diversity of these fresh, local treasures. Join us in preserving the health and well being of our local community!

What do we do?

We operate a 2-acre plot at Fanshawe Village, and we make the produce available to chefs at local restaurants who appreciate the superior value of locally grown heirloom vegetables. Our produce is also enjoyed by our members who purchase shares.

For more information or to purchase your 2009 share contact ROSE at rosemarywhite@sympatico.ca or 519.777.8299 (email preferred).

KUDO's for GreenDrinks London

2009-06-22T23:16:00.006-04:00

(Photo of our Labatt tour courtesy of Jodi Simpson, Tech Alliance)

Thank you GreenDrinkers for being such a welcoming bunch! I am endlessly proud to share time with you. Tiffany

On behalf of myself and my Mom, we'd like to express our Thanks! for Tiffany's warm welcome extended to us to join in your group's recent meeting at The Black Shire Pub in London. Everyone was so friendly, and we truly enjoyed hearing the updates of what is happening in London. We happened to have been seated in the 2nd level of the Pub when your Tuesday tour of Labatt's had concluded. It was a pleasure to chat with all of you!

I noticed on your announcements that your July meeting is a field trip, TBA. Will you share an e-mail to let me know when and where that will be? We might work in another road trip to visit.

Thanks again,

Theresa & Dorothy

London Transit's NEW Bike and Ride Program

2009-06-22T23:12:00.002-04:00

Effective June 8, 2009 London Transit is providing bike racks on board of the following bus routes:

10/14 Wonderland/Highbury

16 Adelaide

17 Highbury

Below is the link to more information regarding the Bike and Ride program. I am also attaching a poster with instructions on how to use the bike racks. Feel free to forward this information to anyone who can benefit from it.

http://www.londontransit.ca/BikeandRide.htm

e-Dialogue for Sustainable Development

2009-06-22T23:03:00.000-04:00

Check out this neat website... http://crcresearch.org/research-tools/e-dialogues/e-dialogues

The e-Dialogues research project attempts to push internet communication technologies (ICTs) to be forces of light rather than dark. They are designed to stimulate substantive dialogue between leading academics and diverse audiences, including the public policy community. Our objectives are to stimulate dialogue around critical sustainable development issues; to use and evaluate electronic dialogue as a tool to increase literacy, both scientific and social, around specific sustainable development issues; to determine if e-Dialogues can inform public policy development, and to determine the efficacy of this medium for building points of consensus for governments. Ultimately, our vision is to have listeners who would 'tune in' to an e-dialogue, similarly as you would tune into a radio program, such as CBC's Ideas.

The Raw Mom Summit (FREE Online Event)

2009-06-22T22:57:00.003-04:00

Dear Multi-tasking Mothers and Passionate Health Pioneers,

In spite of exponential growth in technology, our health is declining.

Pollution infiltrates our lives invisibly through electromagnetic waves and pesticides.

Child Onset Diabetes, Cancer, ADD, Autism and a host of other illnesses are on the rise.

Ritalin didn't exist when we were children and now millions of young people start their day with a handful of pills.

Fortunately, the evolution of motherhood has arrived, and not a moment too soon!

The need to be informed and make change has never been greater than it is right now!

The RAW MOM SUMMIT

Starting MONDAY JUNE 22nd, 2009 (For 9 days)

What if you could gather together some of the most inspirational health leaders in the world for 9 days to discuss the subjects of nutrition, pregnancy, childbirth, parenting and other family health care issues?

What if you could get YOUR concerns addressed about how to succeed on a healthy diet or how to feed your children the best food? What if you could finally get answers to your questions about:

How to prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Childbirth?

Which natural remedies to use when your children are sick?

How to feed a meat-eating partner if you are vegetarian or vegan?

What to do when our kids rebel against our healthy diet?

How to get kids excited and involved in their own food-prep?

What Super Foods are BEST for kids?

What is going on with the Bees and why is it so important?

How to shrink our Carbon Footprint?

What is Sustainability and Permaculture?

What do Raw children eat?

What are the lesser-known common pit-falls of a Raw Food Diet?

How to get picky eaters to crave their veggies?

What if you could get the answers to all these questions and a WHOLE LOT MORE while washing dishes in your pajamas and bouncing a babe on your hip at the same time?

Sound too good to be true?

Well, not if we're talking about an exciting new event (FREE 9-day online seminars) that has been put together by two self-employed mothers with the spunk and determination to get these questions answered by some of the most outstanding experts in the world!

Check it out at http://www.rawmomsummit.com/

WEEKEND SEEDLING SALE - London City Farm

2009-06-19T12:20:00.005-04:00

Get what you need for your garden and support the work of a local not-for-profit. Two birds, one stone...

- tomato plants (40 qty)
- cucumber plants (large) - some fruiting already
- summer squash
- patti pan
- pumpkin plants - pie varieties, as well as, jack-o-lantern
- eggplant (2 qty) - heirloom varieties
- HERBS - basil and thyme

All organically grown. No pesticides, herbicides etc.

Call Rose at 519 777 8299 to arrange for pick-up.

Join People From Over 50 Countries For This Special Event...

2009-06-08T11:37:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/homeproject

In honour of World Environment Day, watch Yann Arthus-Betrand’s film about the effects of climate change.

June 5th is World Environment Day. Join in on a major international event – the online screening of Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s brand-new film, Home. Bertrand is a French journalist, reporter, environmentalist and the photographer for the book Earth from Above. This full length film will be available for viewing online for free until June 14^th.

The film is intended to raise awareness about the effects of climate change, the topic for this year’s WED. The film will be screened in over 50 countries, often for free, on all media – theatres, TV, DVD and Internet – to reach the widest audience possible.

We are living in exceptional times. Scientists tell us that we have 10 years to change the way we live, avert the depletion of natural resources and the catastrophic evolution of the Earth's climate.

The stakes are high for us and our children. Everyone should take part in the effort, and HOME has been conceived to take a message of mobilization out to every human being.

For this purpose, HOME needs to be free. A patron, the PPR Group, made this possible. EuropaCorp, the distributor, also pledged not to make any profit because Home is a non-profit film.

HOME has been made for you: share it! And act for the planet.

Yann Arthus-Bertrand

Website: http://www.home-2009.com

June: Events Around the City

2009-06-02T09:49:00.017-04:00

Monday June 1st
London Bike Festival
- London Central Library - Bikes Work! Display 10am - 4pm in the concourse by the main entrance www.londonpubliclibrary.ca
- Road Bike Ride - Reynold Cycle 7pm at 20 Meg Drive - registration and helmets required 30-50km www.reynoldcycle.com

Wednesday June 3rd
Federal Clean Air Day
-Canada Revenue Agency (www.cra-arc.gc.ca) - Bikes Work! display 9:30am - 4pm at 451 Talbot Street
-Mountain Bike Ride 7pm - Reynold Cycle (www.reynoldcycle.com) registration and helmets required

Thursday June 4th
London Bike Festival
- London Central Library - Bikes Work! Display 10am - 4pm in the concourse by the main entrance www.londonpubliclibrary.ca
- Safety Seminar - London Police Service 7pm at Grosvenor Lodge, 1017 Western Road www.police.london.ca

Friday June 5th
London Bike Festival
- Covent Garden Market - Bikes Work! Display 10am - 4pm near Talbot Street entrance www.coventmarket.com

Saturday June 6th
Gathering on the Green.
A great event for the whole family on the village green - don’t miss the silent auction, live performances and community vendors. It's an annual community festival with craft, plant and other vendors as well as community group displays (Friends of the Coves, Bikes Work!), music and food. Proceeds go towards assisting projects and organizations in Old South. For details visit

http://www.oscolondon.ca/whats-new/29.htm

Saturday June 6th - 9am
Saturday Morning Walk - Thames Valley Trail Association (www.thamesvalleytrail.org)
South Branch Park 9am at south end of Pottersburg Pollution Plant Rd., South from Hamilton Rd. and Gore Rd. intersection

Saturday June 6th 10am-2pm
Native Tree Sale - ReForest London Fundraiser
300 beautiful native trees available, valued at over $25 for $5 each. Location: 1200 Commissioners Road at Deveron Crescent. For more information visit www.reforestlondon.ca.

Saturday June 6th 10-4pm / Sunday June 7th 11-4pm
The Cuddy Gardens, now owned by Fanshawe College and managed by the Horticulture Program features one of the largest collections of Plants in Ontario. Over 2000 species are displayed in dry, rock, woodland, perennial, rose & aquatic gardens. In addition, several plants found in the garden are on the endangered species list such as the indigenous Cucumber Magnolia & the Yellow Trillium. Come out for gardening demonstrations by professional experts. Browse the rare perennial plant sale. Bring a picnic lunch! Rain or Shine.
Where: The A.M. (Mac) Cuddy Gardens, 28443 Centre Rd., Strathroy, Ontario
ADMISSION: $5.00 General admission or $4.00 for pre-registered groups
For more information contact Michael S. Pascoe, N.P.D., O.D.H., CHT, M.Sc. (Plant Conservation), Professor and Academic Program Coordinator, Horticulture Technician and Apprenticeship Horticulture Programs, Director, The Gardens of Fanshawe College and the A.M. Cuddy Garden, Fanshawe College, Phone: 519.452.4430 ext.4323 or 519.245.4108
mpascoe@fanshawec.ca

Sunday June 7th 1:00-4:00
Reforest London Tree Planting Event
Join us as we plant trees and shrubs at Past Presidents Park, located on Millbank Drive, north off Southdale Road. For more information visit www.reforestlondon.ca.

Sunday June 7th 11:00
Garlic Mustard Festival - Meadowlily Nature Preserve
Garlic Mustard is a major scourge of our natural areas and is among the most aggressive of invasive alien plants. Join Ron Casier of the Thames Talbot Land Trust and other volunteers to pull Garlic mustard at the main entrance off of Meadowlily Road South. Dress appropriately, bring lots of water and be prepared for mosquitoes.

Sunday June 7th
London Bike Festival
- YMCA Children's Safety Village - Kid's Helmet Exchange and Bikes Work! Display 12 to 4pm at Children's Safety Village in Fanshawe Conservation Area www.safetyvillage.ca
- London Cycling Club Ride - Saturn Park to Thorndale 58km 8:30am at Saturn Park - membership required www.londoncyclingclub.ca

Sunday June 7th 10:00-2:00
BARK IN THE PARK
The London Humane Society presents the 25th Annual Dog Walk-A-Thon, Bark in the Park from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm in Greenway Park. Great prizes for top pledge earners! Fun for the whole family! All dogs must be leashed. Please call 519-451-0630 ext.222 or visit the website www.londonhumanesociety.ca for additional information.

Monday June 8th 6-8pm
EcoLiving London: London’s Environmental Evolution
If you are interested in living more sustainably, but have no idea where to begin, you aren’t alone. Searching for "green" resources in London often feels like looking for that needle in the hay stack. How can we make things better? Join us to explore London’s current ‘Environmental State of the City’, what is happening in other municipalities, and how EcoLiving London is going to help bring us up to speed with the rest of the province, the rest of the country, the rest of the world by making information easily accessible to all Londoners. Presented by Tiffany Roschkow, Coordinator - GreenDrinks London. Location: Central Library, 251 Dundas Street (Stevenson & Hunt - Room A).

Monday June 8th 6:30pm
Mobilization for Climate Justice - London
Join us for the first meeting of Mobilization for Climate Justice – London, at the East Village Arts Cooperative (EVAC), 757 Dundas Street East (map), a few blocks to the east of Adelaide and Dundas. The Mobilization for Climate Justice is urging communities, organizations and activists across North America to join in organizing mass action on climate change on November 30, 2009 (N30). N30 is significant because it immediately precedes the upcoming UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen (COP-15). Urgent action is needed around the Copenhagen climate talks because this is where governments around the world plan to finalize the international climate regime that will take effect when the Kyoto Protocol climate agreement expires in 2012.

Thursday June 11th 2pm
Talk: Walking, Cycling and Public Spaces with Gil Penalosa (Executive Director, Walk and Bike for Life - http://walkandbikeforlife.org/walkandbike_presentations_bio.html) Location: Wolf Performance Hall at London Central Library.
Talk will feature lessons learned in the city of Bogota Columbia, where he was Commissioner of Parks, Sport and Recreation. The event is free, open to the public, and should be of particular interest to cyclists, planners, architects, walkers, civic administrators, politicians, public health officials and educators.

Thursday June 11th 4:30-6:30pm
Reforest London Annual AGM & Open House
Please join ReForest London as we celebrate the successes of 2008 and our new home at the Westminster Ponds ESA. We will have light refreshments and a program that will include:

• 2008 Success Stories - David Crockett, Chairman, ReForest London Board of Directors
• Westminster Ponds: A London Treasure - A brief indoor introduction followed by a guided walk through the Ponds ESA by Dave Wake, active member of the McIlwraith Field Naturalists and past President of Nature Canada, who has been involved in studying and advocating for the protection of Westminster Ponds for 40 years.
• Commemorative Tree - Plant a Sugar Maple with us to celebrate our new home
• Housewarming Gifts - If you'd like, please bring a gently used item from our Wish List to help us furnish and equip our new offices

Please RSVP to Julie Ryan at julie@reforestlondon.ca by Monday, June 8.

Saturday June 13th 10:00-1:00
PUPPY MEET AND GREET WITH ARF
Join us for a puppy meet and greet with the Animal Rescue Foundation. Learn all about animal adoption too. This event takes place from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at the Children's Museum. Call 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Sunday June 14th 2-5PM

Sitting Tree - Meet & Greet

Sitting Tree is a new not for profit nature and arts school at Westminster Ponds behind Parkwood Hospital (map) that gets people outside and exploring the natural world - play, creativity, problem solving, outdoor learning, valuable relationships. Sitting Tree also offers a home-school program and community programs for various types of groups. Family Fun activities! Catering by the Black Walnut Bakery and Cafe. Music by Celtic Roots. For more info visit www.sittingtree.wordpress.com.

Sunday June 14th 10:00-1:00pm
KITTY MEET AND GREET WITH ARF
Join us for a kitty meet and greet with the Animal Rescue Foundation. Learn all about animal adoption too! This event takes place from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at the Children's Museum. Call 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Tuesday June 16tt - 6pm
GREENDRINKS LONDON - Labatt Brewery Tour, Talk, & Tasting
Join us to learn all about the energy conservation and sustainable development initiatives Labatt's currently has in place. Evening will include 45 min. tour, 30 min. presentation, 15 min. Q&A, and of course, a beer (drinks at the Black Shire to follow). $5/per person.

Wednesday June 17th 7-9pm
Talk: People for safe drinking water
What is in London city water? Is our city water truly safe? Why is there lead in our water?
Speakers: Paul Connett, Ph.D - Fluoride Action Network (www.fluoridealert.org) and Pam Killeen, Author, Consumer Health Advocate 1290am CJBK (www.pamkilleen.com)
Location: South Secondary School - 371 Techumseh Ave East - Old South London

Wednesday June 17th
Workshop: Solar Heat for Water Heating (Sarnia)
More and more people on this planet are sharing limited resources such as fossil energy sources, and the energy and resource hunger of the developing countries are adding to the consumption and depletion. North America has the highest per capita energy consumption in the world. The use of fossil energies is leading to build-up of CO2 in the atmosphere, and changes in global climate, the magnitude of which is not yet fully understood, but potentially very significant. Canada’s arctic and glaciers are melting, and we pretend it is business as usual. We need to move to a long term and sustainable form of use of energy, and renewable energy technologies are this way. This presentation will focus on solar heat for water heating, explain the technology, show examples and look at how applicable this technology is for Canada and the US. Heat generation is a very significant user of energy in North America, and solar heat can and will make a sizable impact. Speaker: Klaus Dohring is the founder and President of Green Sun Rising (www.GreenSunRising.com), a Canadian company in renewable energy technologies, focusing on renewable energies for heat generation. Introductions: Maike Luiken, Ph.D., Chair, IEEE London Section, Dean, Applied Research, Business Development & Innovation, Sustainability Development. For more info visit http://www.bluewatersustainabilityinitiative.com
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Lambton College - 1457 London Road, Sarnia, Ontario, N7S 6K4
Room: N105
Cost: Free

Saturday June 20-21st
COMMUNITY APPRECIATION WEEKEND - Fanshawe Pioneer Village
To thank the community for 50 years of continued support, we roll back the clock and offer admission to the Village at 1959 prices! Join us in the dedication of recently restored heritage buildings. For more information visit www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca.

Saturday June 20th
ABORIGINAL DAY CELEBRATION
National Aboriginal Day is held annually on June 21 and is a celebration of First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples of Canada. Join us as we celebrate Aboriginal culture with special guests Circle of Nation who will perform music, drumming and interactive dance sessions. This event takes place at 1:00 pm at the Children's Museum. Call 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Friday June 26-28th
INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL
Family Shows Canada is pleased to present the second Annual International Food Festival held in London, Ontario's historic Victoria Park, June 26-28, 2009. Festival management will strive to promote multi-culturalism through reasonably priced international cuisine and live cultural entertainment throughout the 18 acre historic park. This forum should make it possible for all to enjoy Victoria Park each spring with an enlightened view of the many diverse cultures that make London great. For more information about this event please call Family Shows Canada at 519-432-5189 or visit www.fscanada.com.

Work Day @ London CIty Farm (Pioneer Village)

2009-05-29T11:52:00.005-04:00

Hey folks! We are having a big work day out in the garden at Pioneer Village this Saturday, May 30th. We will be starting bright and early, and working almost all day, but you can feel free to drop by for however long works best for you, even just to see our progress. We will have about 70 students from the Ivey school of Business coming to help us weed out the pesky crabgrass encroaching on our plot and to help us plant tomatoes. We welcome anyone who has instruments to bring them along; I will be bringing my violin and striking up some fun fiddle songs.

A great way to learn a little gardening, help out a charity, and spend the day in the sun! Bring your family, bring your friends, bring your tools, and your dancing shoes!!!

We are so excited, and hope you can come join us!

Matt & Rose

Reminder: Pilllar Innovation Awards

2009-05-29T11:50:00.002-04:00

Pillar would like to see some GREEN nominations this year, so they've asked us to help get the word out.

Please take a few moments of your time to nominate someone who has dedicated theirs to helping move us toward a sustainable future.

Heck, nominate GreenDrinks! I realize that GreenDrinks is not a registered charity - for a nomination, it doesn’t have to be. The only stipulation is that the award recipients receiving the $2500 need to donate it back to a registered charity.

Pillar Innovation Awards
Celebrating the nonprofit organizations, people and partners whose efforts make our community brighter.

Nomination deadline is June 30, 2009.

Nominations are being accepted in 4 Community Award categories: Innovation, Leadership, Impact, and Collaboration

To nomination a candidate, visit http://www.pillarnonprofit.ca/ or call 519-433-7876.

Platinum Sponsor: Libro Financial Group

HOUSEWARMING + Smart Urban Design w/ Sean Galloway

2009-05-20T14:40:00.006-04:00

Thank you to everyone who came out and joined us yesterday for our housewarming party at the Black Shire Pub.

It was a wonderful night all way round. Our new venue will give us plenty of room to grow and strengthen our community.

Thank you to Sean for a fantastic presentation.

Check out the photos at http://picasaweb.google.ca/greendrinks.london/HOUSEWARMINGPARTYSmartUrbanDesignWSeanGalloway#

Tiffany

SUMMER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

2009-05-19T11:33:00.001-04:00

Position: Summer Festivals Outreach Supervisor
Organization: TREA/Waste Free World
Terms: 30 hours/week for 6 weeks, $12.00/hour
Start date: June 8, 2009
Application: Send resume & cover letter to wastefreeworld@gmail.com by 4:00pm, Thursday May 28th.

Waste Free World is looking for a Summer Festivals Outreach Supervisor to help develop and implement a communication plan to educate vendors and the public about new waste reduction policies related to the use of Victoria Park in London North Centre, specifically related to the new policy banning polystyrene and non reusable packaging at all events held in the parks.

Responsibilities:

•Helping train and supervise events volunteers and vendors
•Developing an outreach strategy for London Green Festivals team to broaden its exposure to citizens of London
•Aiding in the research, writing, and distribution of public education materials for greening festivals
•Working with London Green Festivals Team to achieve 75% waste diversion at the summer festivals in Victoria Park
•Help to set up and tear down waste collection stations (EcoStations) for each event
•Other duties as assigned.

The supervisor will be assisted in this role by the members of the Green Festival Committee and by City of London employees. The Green Festival Committee is comprised of the primary organizers of the major festivals held in London’s Victoria Park along with City of London employees and members of Waste Free World. NOTE: Hours are flexible due to the nature of the festivals. Some evening and weekend work will be required

The successful candidate will ideally have experience in public speaking, events planning and management, a background in environmental or community issues, and strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and be capable of independent work as well as working effectively in a team setting.

This position is funded in part through a grant from Service Canada's Canada Summer Jobs program, which aims to promote youth employment. As a result, the following restrictions on applicants apply:

•Are between 15 and 30 years of age;
•Have been registered as a full-time student in the previous academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in the next academic year;
•Are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or have official refugee protection status under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act; and
•Are legally entitled to work in Canada, according to relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations.

Waste Free World will respond only to those applicants selected for an interview. Please watch our website for future vacancies.

When applying, please indicate where you saw this posting.

May: Events Around the City

2009-05-03T21:34:00.014-04:00

Friday May 1st-2^nd

The Polaris Institute, in collaboration with the Sierra Club of Canada and Toxic Free Canada presents:

Tar Sands Showdown: Campaign Training Workshops
Wemple Student Lounge, 266 Epworth Ave, King's College, UWO. Tar Sands Showdown will take place in five Southwestern Ontario cities. Each workshop will illustrate how local Ontario communities are affected by the tar sands, and how Canada can move away from dirty oil and towards a green energy economy. The workshops will include a Friday evening information session and a day-long workshop on Saturday.

Saturday May 2, 8:00-2:00pm

Compost Day - Masonville Place (behind Nash Jewellers)
30 litres for $2.00(while supplies last). Part of the proceeds go to support Thames Region Ecological Association (Waste Free World operates as a sub group of TREA). Help your garden, help your pocket book and help TREA at the same time. Other locations where compost will be available: Amway Global, 373 Exeter Rd., Try Recycling east of Clarke Rd., off of Medway Rd., and Try Recycling Dingman Drive west of Wellington Rd. *VOLUNTEER*: If you feel so inclined come and help out at the Masonville location. We can always use some extra hands help fill the bags. Just let the leaders know you are volunteering for the TREA team.

Friday May 1-Sunday May 3

McIlwraith Field Naturalists Friday SPRING BIRDING on the BRUCE PENINSULA. Cape Chin Shoreline. The leader will meet the group on Friday evening at Cape Chin North Country Inn Bed and Breakfast. The weekend will be spent visiting a variety of sites on the Bruce Peninsula, looking for spring migrants and resident species. Participants are to book their own rooms at the B&B by calling 1-519-795-7525. Birders may choose alternate accommodation and join the group for the birding parts of the trip only. Please contact the leader at 519-438-5879 for more details.

Saturday May 2 2:00 - 3:30pm

Annual General Meeting of Friends of the Coves Subwatershed. Landon Library ~ 167 Wortley Road. Coffee will be served

Saturday May 2 - May 3

ARTICULATE - SAY IT WITH FLOWERS - Garden Club of London Bi-ennial Flower Show called ARTiculate – “Say it with Flowers” will be held at the Civic Garden Complex, 625 Springbank Drive, London, Ontario. Tickets are $5.00 at the door or from a Garden Club member. For further information contact Linda Hawker at (519) 672-8755. Times of show are Saturday, May 2 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saturday May 2, 9:30 am to noon.

McIlwraith Field Naturalists Saturday SPRINGTIME AT CEDARCROFT. Spend a morning enjoying Cedarcroft, MFN’s 11-ha nature reserve. There will be jobs available for members of all ages, plus time to look for birds and spring wildflowers. Bring work gloves, a lunch, camera, and binoculars. For more information, call the leader at 519-649-4168.

Sunday May 3rd 10:00 am

Meadowlily Nature Preserve Work Day. Trail grooming and maintenance, signage, garbage pick-up Bring loppers, hoe, shovel and a brush saw if you can. Meadowlily Nature Preserve is at 25 Meadowlily Road South, London, Take Highbury Avenue to Commissioners Road. Turn east on Commissioners Road. In about 250 m turn north at the lights onto Meadowlily Road South. Go north to where the road ends at a footbridge. Medowlily Nature Preserve is on your left.

Sunday May 3

LONDON SPRING SPRINT - The London Spring Sprint takes place on Sunday, May 3rd, 2009 at the Fanshawe Conservation Area. Distances are 2.5, 5 km walk or a 7.25 trail run. Walk, Run or Sprint with friends, family, co-workers to support those who have been affected by a brain tumour. For additional information and registration details visit the website www.runningroom.com or call the Running Room at 519-438-8550.

Sunday May 3

HIKE FOR HOSPICE PALLIATIVE CARE - Join us Sunday, May 3, 2009 at Hospice of London, 837 Talbot Street(corner of St. James Street). Hike, walk or jog along 1k or 5k route through Gibbons Park and Harris Park. Collect pledges in honour or in memory of a loved one! All proceeds raised will benefit palliative and bereavement support programs at Hospice of London. Registration at 9:30 a.m. and Kick off at 10:00 a.m. Register today! For more information please call 519-438-2102 or register online at www.hikeforhospice.com.

Monday MAY 4TH 7:00PM DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 pm

HOLLY DRESSEL, author of WHO KILLED THE QUEEN. THE STORY OF A COMMUNITY HOSPITAL AND HOW TO FIX PUBLIC HEALTH CARE THE HISTORIC AEOLIAN HALL
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Dr. John Howard from CAPE | Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment.
“By far the most dangerous foe we have to fight is apathy - indifference from whatever cause, not from a lack of knowledge, but from carelessness, from absorption in other pursuits, from a contempt bred of self satisfaction.” William Osler | Canadian Physician | 1849-1919
Zapatista fair-trade will be available. This event will be zero waste with emphasis on organic and fair trade.

Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 pm

McIlwraith Field Naturalists KOMOKA PROVINCIAL PARK. Spring is an ideal time for viewing spring wildflowers, resident and migrating birds, and trees. Evening walks here may also offer views of spectacular sunsets. Be prepared for some hilly terrain. Take Oxford St west and turn left onto Gideon Dr. Opposite the Brigham Rd intersection, turn right and meet in the parking lot. Leader: 519-472-6103.

Thursday May 7

TASTINGS - CIBC Commercial Banking and CIBC Wood Gundy-Fraser Wilson present London Health Sciences Foundation’s fundraiser benefiting your hospital's Cardiac Care Program. Experience exquisite wines paired with great dishes from some of our region’s best chefs. This event takes place at London Hunt and Country Club. Visit www.lhsf.ca for more information.

Friday May 8^th - Sunday 10^th

Birds, Bikes and Books - Eco-Adventure Weekend (Pelee Island)

The Birds, Bikes and Books will include an adventure tourism bird race by bicycle, on a secluded island, observing rare migratory birds with expert birders, an intimate Wine & Cheese with authors Margaret Atwood and Graeme Gibson, and gourmet meal held at the Pelee Island Winery Pavilion.

Eco-tourism company, Explore Pelee, was founded in 2008 and provides island visitors with a variety of outdoor experiences including historical and natural interpretation tours via hiking, biking and bus tours.

If you'd like more information about this event, or to reserve your spot, please call Anne Marie Fortner at (519) 325-TOUR (8687) or e-mail info@explorepelee.com

Saturday, May 9, 9am-noon

REFOREST LONDON TREE PLANTING. Attawandaron Trail
In this project we'll be planting trees and shrubs along a new multi-use path near Aldersbrook. The site is accessible from Attawandaron Road at Aldersbrook (first traffic light south of Fanshawe). Take the LTC (routes 9A-9B-9C) or park along Aldersbrook. (map) The project is part of our 10,000 Trees for the Medway program, and is sponsored by the Urban League of London through a bequest from the estate of Beryl Ivey.

Saturday, May 9, 1pm-4pm

REFOREST LONDON TREE PLANTING Fox Hollow Ravine
This project is also a naturalization project with trees and shrubs along a new trail, in the same neighbourhood. Take the LTC (routes 9A-9B-9C) or park along Aldersbrook and look for signs. (map) The project is part of our 10,000 Trees for the Medway program, and is sponsored by the Urban League of London through a bequest from the estate of Beryl Ivey.

Saturday, May 9th 9:30am – 1:00pm

London Waldorf School Native Plant Sale. Landon Library ~ 167 Wortley Road

Saturday May 9

PUPPY MEET & GREET WITH ARF! Join us for a puppy meet and greet with the Animal Rescue Foundation at the London Regional Children’s Museum on Saturday, May 9 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Learn all about animal adoption too! For more information please call the London Regional Children’s Museum at 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Saturday May 9

THE SUNLIGHT ZONE - Death defying aerial and ground based acrobatics, dance, a mysterious underwater world, and a gripping soundscape blend together in Tipping Point Productions newest multi-art fusion called The Sunlight Zone. Inspired by signs reading “beach closed”, four acrobatics set out to find the cause. What they have learned is that severe rainstorms can overwhelm a city’s outdated sewer system, sending a torrent of raw sewage into the lake. The Sunlight Zone is inspired by the relationship between the urban environment and the water cycle that flows through and supports it. Humanity is polluting, diverting, and depleting the wellspring of life at a startling rate. This project will bring attention to the hydrologic web, with water being the life-giving connecting thread. For tickets please call the London City Music Theatre box office at 519-432-0888 or visit the website www.londoncitymusictheatre.com for additional information.

Sunday May 10 1:00 PM

Joany's Woods Trail Dedication and Mothers' Day Hikes Join us at on Sunday, to celebrate the re-dedication of the public hiking trails at Joany's Woods. Following a brief ceremony we will be offering our popular 3rd annual Mothers' Day hikes. The trails have been cleared and blazed. New numbered posts correspond to a self-guided interpretive guide available from this website. On May 10th TTLT volunteers will lead a selection of hikes to accommodate a wide range of participants. Bring your friends and family and join us for a fun afternoon in the woods.
The ceremony will take place at 1:00 PM at the Boothill Road entrance

Sunday May 10

KITTY MEET & GREET WITH ARF Join us for a kitty meet and greet with the Animal Rescue Foundation at the London Regional Children’s Museum on Sunday, May 10 from 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Learn all about animal adoption too! For more information please call the London Regional Children’s Museum at 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Wednesday, May 13 6:30 pm

McIlwraith Field Naturalists CIRCLE R RANCH. This walk will focus on spring wildflowers. Meet the leaders at the main entrance to the ranch at 3017 Carriage Rd, Delaware. Directions from London: Head southwest on Hwy 2 (Wharncliffe Rd, then Longwoods Rd) and turn right onto Carriage Rd before Delaware. Alternatively, take Oxford St west, or Commissioners Rd and then Oxford, turn left on Gideon Dr., then left on Carriage Rd. For more details, call 519-686-0160.

Tuesday May 19^th

GreenDrinks London - HOUSEWARMING PARTY

GreenDrinks London has been invited to land at the Black Shire Pub on Talbot St. (just down the street from the Alex P. Keaton). We will have the entire 2nd level to ourselves, complete with stage, seating, and a private bar. JOIN US to ring in this new venue. Plus...

TOPIC: SMART URBAN PLANNING w/ Sean Galloway

This will be a presentation discussing the future of London. We will look at how London will become a 21^st Century city, by developing its competitive advantage, through public transit, well designed communities and the creation of great public spaces.

Saturday May 23

Walk of Hope for Schizophrenia - Covent Garden Market, Families and individuals living with this illness are given a reason to hope and the means to cope. By participating in this year's Walk you are helping to provide support, counsel and critical info. for more info visit www.schizophrenia.on.ca Contact: 519-439-3921 Website: www.coventmarket.com

Sunday May 24

KENNDY'S KRIDDERS - Meet Matthew Kennedy and his array of amazing critters at the London Regional Children’s Museum on Sunday, May 24 at 1:00 p.m. Learn all about scorpions, spiders, snakes and more and how they survive in their environment. For more information please call the London Regional Children’s Museum at 519-434-5726 or visit the website www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca for additional information.

Sunday, May 24 10:30 am

McIlwraith Field Naturalists WHIMBREL WATCH at PORT STANLEY. For many years, Whimbrels have been observed migrating through Port Stanley, during a three-day period, en route to Hudson Bay. Be sure to dress warmly as the group will spend time by the lake. Please call the leader at 519-438-5879 for details of the meeting place and time.

Thursday, May 28 5-9pm

The London High Speed Rail Public Symposium. City of London Council Chambers. High Speed Rail Canada is a non profit national citizens group dedicated to educating Canadians on the benefits of high speed rail in Canada. They do that through their website http://highspeedrail.ca and through their public symposiums. The London symposium (the 3rd this year) is being co-sponsored by the London Economic Development Council and the City of London. The symposium will have as the key note speaker David Collenette, Former Federal Transport Minister and representatives from Bombardier, Siemens and Alstom. Cost is $15. It will run Thursday, 5 to 9pm, with a dinner included at the City of London Council Chambers. Registration is required to attend and space is limited. You can register at http://highspeedrail.ca. This should be an interesting community discussion on an important part of London’s future.

Saturday May 30- May 31

SPRING ON THE FARM - Spring is a busy time at home and on the farm! Planting, rail-fence building, garden preparation and domestic chores are only a few of the many tasks keeping everyone busy in this rural 19th century village. For more information please call Fanshawe Pioneer Village at 519-457-1296 or visit the website www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca for additional information.

London's City Centre is BOMA BESt certified

2009-05-03T21:31:00.001-04:00

The City Centre, is London’s first and only commercial building to receive BOMA BESt (Building Owners and Managers Association, Building Environmental Standards) certification. This designation signifies the property meets all of BOMA’s ‘Go Green’ Best Practices, and demonstrates that City Centre is moving towards excellence in energy and environmental performance through better management.

BOMA BESt certified buildings undergo an independent third-party verification process, and the certification exemplifies Redbourne’s interest in continuing their commitment to improvement of its facilities for both tenants and the community.

“As relatively new owners of City Centre, going through the certification process assisted us with understanding every aspect of operating the towers in an energy efficient manner, “said Peter Vandusen, Redbourne’s Vice President, Asset Management. “With our ongoing commitment to BOMA BESt we’ll now be educating our tenants about environmental initiatives, and they’ll have the opportunity to play a role in reducing our environmental impact and reduce City Centre’s carbon footprint together.”

Thames Talbot Land Trust Creates New Nature Preserve

2009-05-03T21:30:00.001-04:00

The Thames Talbot Land Trust is marking Earth Day this year with the creation of a new nature preserve. Tiedje Woods is a 15 acre forest near Hungry Hollow in North Middlesex that lies within the Ausable River Valley. Tiedje Woods is a gift from John and Dorothy Tiedje of Bright’s Grove. The Tiedjes are avid naturalists who have cared for the Woods for decades and now want to ensure that it is protected forever by entrusting it to the Thames Talbot Land Trust.

“If you love nature then you have to protect the land”, explains Don Gordon, Executive Director of the Trust, “I can’t think of a more enduring tribute to Earth Day than the gift of land, simply put nothing outlasts land”. Tiedje Woods becomes the seventh property protected by the Land Trust since it was established in 2000 and the second new property in 2009. The Thames Talbot Land Trust is a registered Canadian charity that protects land and waters of ecological and agricultural significance in Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford and Perth. More than three dozen volunteers and over 150 members make this volunteer organization a conservation success story. To learn more about the Trust and its properties please visit us at www.ttlt.ca . Together we are creating natural legacies.

Organic Gardening Club: Planting Seedlings

2009-04-23T22:42:00.004-04:00

Another growing season is upon us and we are starting early with two weekend workshops on planting seedlings. Join us this year for the GreenDrinks Organic Gardening Club. In partnership with London City Farm.

When: Saturday & Sunday (April 25 & 26, May 2 & 3)
Time: 9 a.m. til 2 p.m.
Directions: #2 hwy(Dundas Street) drive east past Trails End Market, Carolina Wineries and a mechanic shop. Greenhouses are called 'Octopuses Garden'. We are in greenhouse #12.
Contact: Call or email Rose @ 519 777 8299 or R M WHITE <rosemarywhite@sympatico.ca>
Carpooling: Meeting at Argyle Mall. Contact Rose to arrange.

Environment and Sustainability in Action: 2009 IDEAS Forum

2009-04-23T22:38:00.001-04:00

Bob McDonald (http://www.speakers.ca/mcdonald_bob.aspx) kicks off a full day of Environment and Sustainability presentations and events at the IDEAS Conference.

The energy crisis of 1973 saw a drop in popularity of large gas-guzzling cars and fuel efficiency became a priority. Gas prices rose and SUV’s became more popular. Does that make any sense? Why do people oppose Kyoto? Windmills produce clean energy and yet people protest their use. Canada is one of the worst consumers of energy and water in the world. Scientists have been sounding alarm bells about environmental decline for decades. Why is real social change so slow in coming? Are there realistic solutions? Bob McDonald will address these and other Environmental Conundrums that defy logical scientific sense, and discuss why we continue to engage in contradictory and often harmful behaviours.

Date: Monday, April 27th, 2009
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with reception to follow, registration at 8 a.m.
Location: 1R40 Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario

Please RSVP at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=9AaecHUfnFIzkjxuzHHuTQ_3d_3d

Map: http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Richard+Ivey+School+of+Business&sll=45.521503,-73.615952&sspn=0.104397,0.30899&dirflg=r&date=09%2F04%2F16&time=09:37&ttype=dep&noexp=0&noal=0&sort=&tline=&ie=UTF8&z=16