Dear Friends Of Simplicity, 3545 2014 01

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Dear Friends of Simplicity,
This is the Simplicity Matters Earth Institute Monthly Announcement for January 2014. It is going out
to over 1,545 people. If you do not want to receive this once-a-month email in the future, simply hit
"reply" and ask to be removed.
Please also remember that if you prefer not to read this announcement in email form, you can always
access it on the web at www.simplicity-matters.org/announcements/ or as a PDF at
http://www.simplicity-matters.org/events/2014/2014-1.pdf
In case you are not aware, SMEI is now on Facebook! Please “like” us:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Simplicity-Matters-Earth-Institute/130611396993657
Please start posting articles, thoughts, and questions there, to start some online dialogue. Consider it
the SMEI “blog”!
We also have a Yahoogroup, called "DCMetroSimplifiers," with about 265 members, if you want to be
involved during the month in an "interactive dialogue." You can subscribe from our “Online Convos”
tab of our website or directly at http://www.simplicity-matters.org/online.
For our friends in Baltimore, there is also a YahooGroup called "Green City Baltimore," with similar
interactive opportunities and about 91 members. You also can subscribe from our “Online Convos”
tab of our website or directly at http://www.simplicity-matters.org/online.
This announcement is organized into seven sections:
Second Sunday Forum
Earth Forum of Howard County
Baltimore Green Forum
Discussion Circle Update
Community Events
February Preview and Beyond
Action Opportunities & Tidbits
Urgently needed: Person(s) proficient in Dreamweaver or similar software to monthly update SMEI
website. Candidates should have their own computer and software, ability to convert Word
documents into clickable PDFs, and good editing and proofreading skills. Great volunteer opportunity
enabling you to showcase your talents if you're starting your career as a webmaster. Please contact
Lena Rotenberg, LenaRR@gmail.com or 301-432-8721.
Thanks to this month's editor, Michael Hartman.
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SECOND SUNDAY FORUM
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Sunday, January 12
6:30 pm–8:30 pm
Using Movement for Self Care with Judy Rose Seibert www.tragerbyjudyrose.com
Would you like to be more comfortable in your own body? Would you like to start the new year
learning new ways to care for yourself? Judy Rose has 18 years of experience using the playful and
delightful movements of the Trager® Approach to help individuals rediscover greater ease of

movement. Movement "oils" our joints, relaxes our muscles, and generates feelings of aliveness and
joy. Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Our events are always free and open to all. Please join us!
Where: In a private home in Bethesda, within walking distance of the Medical Center metro (Red
Line), close to I-495 and Wisconsin Avenue.
To RSVP (required): Call Marney at (301) 652-0492 or e-mail forum@simplicity-matters.org . Please
include your phone number in your message.
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EARTH FORUM OF HOWARD COUNTY
****************************************
Sunday, January 19, 2014 2:00 p.m.
Earth Forum of Howard County
First Presbyterian Church
9325 Presbyterian Circle, Columbia, Md.
Topic: Better Food, Better Heath, Better Climate for Howard County
Featuring Kelly Dudeck, Howard County Food Policy Director
Howard County, in conjunction with the Horizons Foundation, is taking a bold step to increase
nutritious, locally produced, and sustainable food for our community. This exciting initiative includes
forming the Howard County Food Policy Task Force, creating a Food Hub, and developing an
incubator kitchen.
The Forum includes nutritious refreshments and a selection of small group workshops and
discussions. Free and open to all. For more information, contact earthforum@firstpreshc.org or call
(410) 730-3545.
PREVIEW February 16 Earth Forum: Dr. Robert L. Thompson, former assistant Secretary of
Agriculture, USDA. "From Farm to Table: The challenge of feeding 9.7 billion better than today, at
reasonable cost without damaging the environment”.
.
********************************
THE BALTIMORE GREEN FORUM
*********************************
Sunday, January 26
Presentation: 4 - 5:30 pm; Breakout Sessions: 5:30 - 6:30pm
MD Presbyterian Church,
1105 Providence Road, Towson, MD 21286
www.mpchurch.org/About.htm
Speaker: Ian Schlackman, co-founder of Baltimore Time Bank & Sustainability Political
Activist.
Ian will be speaking about Time Banking and its many benefits in helping us reconstruct our local
economies in a sustainable way. www.baltimoregreenforum.org
To ask any questions about our programs or to get updated program info:
* Send email to baltimoregreenforum@gmail.com,

* Call Sam Hopkins at 410-554-0006,
* or check www.baltimoregreenforum.org .
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DISCUSSION CIRCLE UPDATE
******************
NEW TOPICS THIS FALL:
Change By Degrees, http://www.nwei.org/discussion-courses/addressing-climate-challenge/
Peer Support Group, http://nipspeersupport.org/?page_id=108
Going Green At Home, http://chears.org/gcan/discussion-circles/
NWEI Discussion Guides: (CbyD) Change by Degrees: Addressing the Climate Challenge (HFC) Hungry for Change,
(WOH) World of Health, (SSW) Sustainable Systems at Work; (RE) Reconnecting with Earth; (CSL) Choices for
Sustainable Living; (DSOP) Discovering a Sense of Place; (HCHP) Healthy Children-Healthy Planet; (MF) Menu for the
Future; (VS) Voluntary Simplicity. Other guides: (LBP) "Simplicity Lessons" by Linda Breen Pierce; (LCD) "Low Carbon
Diet" by David Gershon; (YMOYL) Your Money or Your Life, (CSC) Common Security Club/Resilience Circle, (WOE)
World on the Edge by Lester Brown, (SE) Sacred Economics by Charles Eisenstein (PSG) Peer Support Group from
National Institute on Peer Support
IMPORTANT NOTE: Effective Oct 1, 2012 NWEI discussion circle guides went up to $25 plus s/h (except a few rare
exceptions). They should be ordered directly from NWEI. For more info, visit http://www.simplicitymatters.org/circles/order.php
From Jan to Dec 2013, we started 13 circles (291 total circles since 2002!). Most recent topics have included Sacred
Economics, Voluntary Simplicity, Moneyless Manifesto, Powering a Bright Future, and Peer Support Group There is 3
circles starting this month in College Park/Hyattsville, Severna Park, and Bethesda marked with an asterisk (*).
Many more are in active formation.
Our circles have become so widespread that we are now breaking them down by county. Please scroll down to see
what is starting up near where you live. For more info, you may contact Lore at lore@simplicity-matters.org unless
otherwise noted.
Frederick & Washington County
UU Church of Frederick (tbd) Contact Marney at marney@simplicity-matters.org for details
Carroll County
Westminster “Regroup” Contact CirclesCarroll@Simplicity-Matters.org to join the group for discussions and to watch
videos. CS: Carole Flood
Howard County
Western Howard County “Change by Degrees: Addressing the Climate Challenge” CS: Liz Feighner/Sue Kunkel, for
more info email hococlimatechange.circles@gmail.com
Town Center/Manor House/Oliver Carriage House “Change by Degrees: Addressing the Climate Challenge” CS:
Florence Miller, for more info email hococlimatechange.circles@gmail.com
Columbia “World of Health” For more info email hococlimatechange.circles@gmail.com
"Is Sustainability Still Possible" Circle, online (from home)
The Transition Movement group on Goodreads.com will engage in discussion circle of the book "State of the World 2013:
Is Sustainability Still Possible?", starting on May 19 and continuing (slowly) through the end of the year. They are
currently on Chapter 22. You do not need to be available on Sundays, as you can progress at your own pace. For more
info see http://www.transitionhoco.org/goodreads-transition-movement.
HoCo Climate Change Circles Committee is actively pursuing other potential venues. Details to follow. Visit
www.hococlimatechange.org or email hococlimatechange.circles@gmail.com
Harford County
None currently scheduled to begin
Baltimore City/County
Baltimore “Matchmaker” Circle (tbd, as soon as we get a critical mass), CS: Lore Rosenthal, lore@simplicitymatters.org

Anne Arundel County
*Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church, Severna Park, MD, “Hungry for Change”, Mon, Jan 6, 7 pm, CS: Retta
Barkley. Email lore@simplicity-matters.org, if interested.
Prince Georges County
*College Park/Hyattsville, “Sacred Economics”, Wed, Jan 15, 7-9 pm, private home in College Park. We will
discuss Chapter 16 of Sacred Economics, about “Gift Circles”. Read it here- http://sacred-economics.com/read-online/
The circle is still open to new people. Email carolnezzo@gmail.com and kateprager@earthlink.net to find out the
schedule for future chapters.
Greenbelt, “Going Green at Home”, A new discussion circle topic for residents of Springhill Lake/Franklin Park. Topics
will include: * Use less energy * Food: eating lower on the food chain * Reduce Consumption *Reduce Your Garbage *
Green Products in Your Home * Why Bother? Can One Individual Really Make a Difference? CS: Carolyn LambrightDavis/Lore Rosenthal (looking for 6 more people)
Greenbelt “Climate Change, from Local to Global”, We are pilot testing a next six-week discussion circle that will
include *Climate Science * Life-style Choices * Systemic Change * Policy & Strategic Alternatives * Envisioning a Positive
Future * Where Do We Go From Here? CS: Lore Rosenthal (looking for 6 more people)
*Greenbelt “Peer Support Group”, This six-week circle for people interested in climate and sustainability will teach the
basic tools of peer support, give participants the opportunity to benefit from the process and empower participants to
provide support to themselves and others on an ongoing basis after the circle. Dr. Jim Driscoll will come out the first
session to model the process. The circle will then continue on it's own for 4 sessions. Jim will return the sixth session to
lead the wrap up. CS: Lore Rosenthal (looking for 5 more people)
Paint Branch UU Church (VS), Will start as soon as there is a critical mass. CS: Raman Pathik
Montgomery County
We are putting together circles for winter now. Topics being considered are HFC and CSL. Interested parties need to
contact Marneyb@earthlink.net for more information.
*River Road UU Church, Bethesda, Mon. Jan 6, Registration for ‘The Ethics of Water Security’ course, Bethesda,
MD
The environmental task force at RRUUC has put together a discussion curriculum on Dying of Thirst: The Ethics of Water
Security is an original discussion course coordinated by RRUUC Environmental Task Force. Readings and discussion
will explore the world's diminishing supply of clean water, its usage and equitable distribution, privileged consumption,
laws governing water, and its use in energy production. The class will be from Monday January 13 thru to March 10,
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm at River Road UU Congregation in Bethesda meeting alternate weeks. Registration and a $10 reading
workbook is required by Monday, Jan. 6,a week prior to the first class. For more information go to
http://www.rruuc.org/lifelong-learning/adult-religious-education-contemporary-issues/take-a-class.html
Takoma Park (CSC) CS: Bruce Baker, email lore@simplicity-matters.org, if interested.
Silver Spring (Addressing Climate Change or Peer Support Group) We are working with Marylanders for Climate
Coordination and MC-OFA to tailor a circle to the interests of participants. CS: Lore Rosenthal
Washington, DC,
Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan/Citizens Climate Lobby SMEI is teaming up with the National Institute for Peer Support,
Ecolocity, and the Citizens Climate Lobby to offer several discussion circles. This summer we studied the various
components of the DC Sustainability Plan (http://sustainable-dc.org.). Plans are in process for a follow up circle. CS: Jim
Driscoll Email lore@simplicity-matters.org, if interested.
Dupont Circle/Columbia Heights (Sacred Economics) CS: Laura Gubisch. Email lore@simplicity-matters.org, if
interested.
Tenleytown or on Red Line (All Topics). There is interest but we need more people. If you are interested in joining a
discussion group please let me know. Marney@simplicity-matters.org, (301) 652-0492
We have just learned of a new group in DC also starting circles. Visit www.janyocommunity.com or
http://thejanyocommunity.wordpress.com/course/ to learn more.
"Circles List"/"Matchmaking"

This fall, SMEI will continue "matching" and/or "pointing" people into circles. In neighborhoods where circles are already
forming, we will point you in the direction of a circle nearby. In those areas where there is not a circle already being
planned, we will "match" people into home-based groups.
We have transitioned to a regional structure for the state. Please use the emails below for more information about circles
starting in your county.
SMEI Regional Coordinators:
Baltimore City/Baltimore Co.: CirclesBalto@simplicity-matters.org (Lore Rosenthal)
Carroll Co.: CirclesCarroll@simplicity-matters.org (Marney Bruce)
Frederick & Washington Co.: CirclesFredWashCo@simplicity-matters.org (Lena Rotenberg)
Howard Co.: CirclesHoCo@simplicity-matters.org (Lore Rosenthal).
See also Climate Change Initiative of Howard County (CCIHC) www.hococlimatechange.org
Montgomery Co.: CirclesMontgomery@simplicity-matters.org (Marney Bruce)
Prince Georges Co.: CirclesPG@simplicity-matters.org (Lore Rosenthal)
Washington DC: CirclesDC@simplicity-matters.org (Marney Bruce)
Elsewhere in Maryland or Jefferson Co., WV: Circles@simplicity-matters.org or 301-432-8721 (Lena Rotenberg)
For a list of our most popular NWEI-published discussion topics, visit
http://www.simplicity-matters.org/volunteers/forms/7guides.pdf
If you are starting your own circle and would like to have your blurb posted here and on our website, please email it to
Lena@simplicity-matters.org
For more info. about our discussion circles, visit our Discussion Circles page, http://www.simplicitymatters.org/circles ,
or email Lore at lore@simplicity-matters.org

****************
COMMUNITY EVENTS
****************
Sat, Jan 4, Real Food Farm Volunteer Day, 12 noon - 3 pm
Starting in December and continuing through February, Real Food Farm will be hosting only ONE monthly Saturday
volunteer day on the first Saturday of each month from 12pm-3pm: Jan. 4th and Feb. 1st. Any day’s project may include
planting, weeding, invasive species removal, hoophouse construction, compost spreading, bed preparation, fruit tree
planting, and lots more. www.realfoodfarm.org/get-involved/volunteer/
Sun, Jan 5, Saving Energy at Home and Why It Matters, 11 am - 12 noon, Fairfax, VA
Join Interfaith Power & Light (MD.DC.NoVA) and LEAP-VA for a home energy workshop. As the weather gets chillier,
we’ll reflect on our own responsibility as people of faith to consider the impact of our electricity use, and learn how to
conserve energy in our homes this winter. RSVP: Elizabeth Stevens - program@gwipl.org. Providence Presbyterian
Church, 9019 Little River Tnpk Fairfax, VA.
Sun, Jan 5, Green Schools Exhibit- Last Day National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001
Over 60 million Americans spend their days in K-12 school buildings. Ensuring that these students, faculty, and staff have
a safe and healthy place to learn and work, and that the buildings conserve energy and water while remaining economical
to build, are some of the most important issues facing educational leaders and city planners as they work to renovate
older schools and build new structures. www.nbm.org/exhibitions-collections/exhibitions/green-schools.html
Mon, Jan 6 – Fri, Jan 10, Building Innovation 2014: Advancing Life-Cycle Performance, 10 am, Washington
Marriott at Wardman Park, Washington, DC
The National Institute of Building Sciences second annual Conference & Expo will explore Advancing Life-Cycle
Performance. www.nibs.org/?page=conference2014
Tue, Jan 7, MD Clean Water Innovations Trade Show, 9 am - 1 pm, MDE at Montgomery Park, 1800 Washington
Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21230
The Maryland Clean Water Innovations Trade Show was an initiative developed at a 2011 “Maryland Forward” forum on
sustainability. Inspired by the suggestion of Governor O'Malley to bring together Maryland businesses with developers
and local governments to work on cost-effective solutions to stormwater runoff pollution and other water quality issues, the
Maryland Clean Water Innovations Trade Show was born. The one-day event allows green vendors to exhibit products
and services for environmentally-sensitive site design and restoration of wetlands, streams and other ecosystems to
public and private organizations.
www.mde.state.md.us/programs/Marylander/outreach/Pages/CleanWaterInnovationsTradeShow.aspx

Tue, Jan 7, Design Conversations, 5 pm - 7 pm, Windup Space, 10 W North Ave Baltimore MD
The Design Conversations are a monthly series of events loosely curated by a group of volunteers, focusing on rotating
topics that are timely and engaging. These events are always free, always at the Windup Space, and now on the first
TUESDAY of every month! Design Conversations are encouraged by the generous support of D:center Baltimore and
Baltimore Community Foundation. Cash bar, AV hookup available for spontaneous presentations!
dcenterbaltimore.tumblr.com; twitter.com/#!/dcenterbmore; facebook.com/groups/dcenterbaltimore;
www.dcenterbaltimore.com/
Tue, Jan 7, Howard County Watershed Stewards Academy Free Information Session, 7 pm, University of MD
Extension Office, 3300 N. Ridge Rd., Suite 240, Ellicott City MD, 21043
Get information about the Howard County Watershed Stewards Academy. Watershed Stewards learn how to design and
build projects that reduce the amount of storm water runoff that flows from rooftops, roads, driveways, and parking lots
into streams and rivers in Howard County. In a 15-week course you can learn:
*How to decrease sediment, nitrogen, phosphorus, bacteria, oil and grease, trash, pesticides and metals that pollute the
Chesapeake Bay.
*How to use solutions to storm water runoff, such as conservation landscaping, rain gardens, rain barrels, and downspout
disconnections to help residents in Howard County.
*How to help neighbors correct drainage and erosion problems.
Information about HoCoWSA and the application are available at howardwsa.org. E-mail us at Howardwsa@gmail.com
or call 410 313-2711. Mike Calvert, Howard County Watershed Stewards Academy. Applications for the 2014
Watershed Stewards Academy are now being accepted.
Wed, Jan 8, Technology in Practice Round Table, 6 pm - 8 pm, Marks-Thomas Architects ,1414 Key Hwy #200,
Baltimore, MD 21230
The future of architecture and construction - Technology in Practice Round table discussion. The role of technology in
architecture and construction is expanded rapidly. Not only has it changed the buildings we build, it has also started to
revolutionize the way we build them. The Baltimore AIA Technology in Practice Committee examines and presents topics
concerning the use of technology, computer hardware and software, and their strategic application in the design / build
process. PrintlLessPlans is also looking for panelist to join our GreenBuild 2014 Education session proposal on the same
topic due January 10th. For more information please contact jlyles@PrintLessPlans.com
Wed, Jan 8, Rally against Cove Point exports and fracking, 9:30 am - 12 noon, Annapolis, MD
Join us for a rally at the Robert C. Murphy Court of Appeals steps, 361 Rowe Blvd. in Annapolis, where Sierra Club
lawyers are presenting arguments against the polluting exports of natural gas from the Cove Point LNG station in Calvert
County. You can park at the Navy Stadium parking lot, then take the short walk across Taylor Ave., past the Dept. of
Natural Resources building to the courthouse. From there, we will march along Rowe Blvd. to the Maryland Statehouse
(less than 1/2 mile) to welcome the legislators back for the first day of the General Assembly session and urge them to
place a moratorium on fracking. We'll be finished by noon, and the event is free (although you will need to pay for parking
at the Stadium lot and most other places around Annapolis). There is a shuttle from the statehouse back to the Navy
stadium lot that runs throughout the day.
Contact Megan Jenny for more information: megan@chesapeakeclimate.org
Sign up at the Chesapeake Climate Action Network web site: http://www.chesapeakeclimate.org
Sat, Jan 11, Seekers Church New Year Swap-O-Rama, 2 pm - 5 pm, 276 Carroll St. NW, Washington, DC 20012
(adjacent to Takoma Park, MD)
Know that stuff you got for x-mas/chanukah that just wasn't your style? How about exchanging it for something that is?
New Year Swap-O-Rama-Rama with the usual accoutrements like Music, Sewing Machines and Notions etc for you to
modify your new finds. Why spend $$$ when you can swap and personalize your new finds? Everyone has those pair of
jeans they've outgrown, or that gift that really just wasn't you, or maybe your style has completely changed. Your rags are
someone else's treasure!! A Swap-O-Rama is a fun event where pre-loved clothing is recycled with the opportunity to
modify your newly found diggs. How it works (inspired by Wendy Tremayne):
*Entrance Fee: $8 for all you can carry :)
* Bring a bag or more of gently used clothes
* Modify your finds at any of the DIY (do it yourself) Stations
* Transform your clothing into fashion forward eco-friendly items
* Take as much as you can carry!!
* All leftover clothes are donated to charity!
If you wish to simply give away clothes and not attend, they can be dropped off on my porch between now and January
11, email me if you'd like to do this and I'll send you my address, in Hyattsville near 410 and Rhode Island Ave, Gretchen
Brodtman 

Sat, Jan 11, Fascination with Snakes, 10 am, Woodstock, MD
Visit the Howard County Conservancy to discover all about these amazing reptiles. With speaker Ray Bosmans. For
more information, contact Devon Kosisky, info@hcconservancy.org, 410-465-8877. DIrections and details at
www.hcconservancy.org
Sun, Jan 12, Nature Preschool Open House at Irvine Nature Center, 12 noon - 2 pm, Owings Mills, MD
Looking for an eco-friendly preschool? Then come out to play! Join us for a casual, drop-in Open House to discover our
nature-based approach to learning. Little ones are always welcome! Free! For more information, contact Monica,
Monica@ExploreNature.org, 443-738-9213. Directions and details at www.ExploreNature.org
Tue, Jan 14, Webinar: Community Power Program for Organizations, 10 am - 11 am
If your religious community pays its electric bill in DC or in Maryland, you may have an opportunity for your congregation
to both save thousands of dollars on energy bills and also support clean power. Organizations combine their purchasing
power to secure a lower electricity rate, support clean energy through purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), and
obtain a low residential wind energy rate that they can offer to their members. To register for the webinar: email your
name, the name of your congregation, and the date of the webinar for which you are registering to karen@gwipl.org, with
"CPP" in the subject line.
Tue, Jan 14, Montgomery County Green Party Monthly Meeting, Focus on Privacy, 7 pm - 9 pm, Takoma Park, MD
Work with Green Party local candidates on 10 Mile Creek protection, privacy, single payer health care, community-based
economic activities, climate change, social justice and many other issues to take practical steps creating a just,
sustainable society in Montgomery County and Maryland. Real steps for real progress. For more information, contact
Mary Rooker, greentyrtle@gmail.com, 301-891-1288. Directions and details at montgomerycountygreenparty.org.
Wed, Jan 15, MLK’s Birthday – Call for Collective Interfaith Actions on the Climate Crisis , Rally: time TBA
http://www.interfaithactiononclimatechange.org/index.html
Wed, Jan 15, Deer & Drambuie at Irvine Nature Center, 6:30 pm - 9 pm, Owings Mills, MD
Join us to examine Maryland’s rising white-tailed deer population and its impact on surrounding ecosystems. Topics such
as recent population trends, deer resistant plants, Lyme disease and alternatives to hunting will be useful for
homeowners, farmers, gardeners, hunters and nature enthusiasts. Presentation by Jim Bennett from the Maryland
Department of Natural Resources. Drinks and dinner included. 21+ only. $20 for members; $30 for non-members. For
more information, contact Clare, NaldrettC@ExploreNature.org, 443-738-9220. Directions and details at
www.ExploreNature.org
Thu, Jan 16, Bike Friendly University Workshop at Hood College, 9 am - 1 pm, Frederick, MD
At this free event including lunch, Bike Maryland gathers university officials, facilities management, faculty, staff, and
passionate students for an interactive education workshop on becoming a bicycle friendly university. We will discuss the
5E’s (Engineering, Encouragement, Education, Enforcement, and Evaluation/Planning) of bicycle infrastructure that
enhance university campuses and we hear from the University of Maryland, one of the most bike friendly campuses in the
country, on how their work promoting safe bicycling. Sponsors: Hood College and New Belgium Brewing Company. For
more information, contact Katie Lupo, KatieLupo@bikemd.org, 952-484-2567. Directions and details at www.bikemd.org
Thu, Jan 16, Still Life in Hibernation, 7 pm - 9 pm, The Natural History Society of Maryland 6908 Belair Road,
Baltimore, MD
This program is for people who have an interest in sketching natural objects. We meet on the third Thursday of each
month from 7-9pm to sketch specimens from our natural history collections as well as natural objects found by our
volunteers and naturalists. There is one still life display to work from, and many objects built around a theme. The theme
for our January session is 'Still Life in Hibernation'. Everyone from novice to seasoned artist is welcome. The cost is FREE
for members and $5 for non-members. You may want to bring a hand lens or magnifying glass along with the art supplies
you’ll use for sketching. Adults are welcome to bring refreshments to enjoy while sketching.
www.meetup.com/marylandnature/events/152559082/?a=ra1_te
Sat, Jan 18, National Capital Presbytery Earth Care Network Meeting, 10:00-12:00 pm, Bethesda, MD.
A meeting for green team leaders from Presbyterian churches in the National Capital Presbytery. For more information
contact Alison Bennett - alisonbennett660@ymail.com. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, North Bethesda, MD
Sun, Jan 19, Tales of Nature: An Afternoon of Professional Storytelling, 3 pm - 5 pm, Woodstock, MD
An afternoon of storytelling that will delight and enchant both children and adults. Tales of earth's creatures and Mother
Nature will be among the stories told by three different professional story tellers. For more information, contact Devon
Kosisky, info@hcconservancy.org, 410-465-8877. DIrections and details at www.hcconservancy.org

Mon, Jan 20, Gardening for the Butterfly Life Cycle, 8 pm - 9:30 pm, Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Kathy Stevens, Brookside Gardens Wings of Fancy curator, will walks us through the best butterfly plants for our region
as well as how to care for them. This talk is Silver Spring Garden Club's monthly meeting. Open to all. Free. For more
information, contact Kathy Jentz, Washington Gardener Magazine, 301-588-6894, WGardenermag@aol.com. Directions:
www.brooksidegardens.org
Tue, Jan 21, Legislative Environmental Summit, 4:30 pm - 6 pm, Annapolis, MD
Come to Annapolis to learn about important environmental issues before the Maryland General Assembly in 2014. Meet
Senators, Delegates, state officials, and environmental leaders. The event is free, but you will need to pay for parking in
one of the nearby parking garages or lots. We'll be meeting in the large conference room just to the right after entering the
Miller Senate Office Building at 11 Bladen St. Arrive early and bring photo ID to enter through security and get your seat
for this important event. Many will gather after the Summit for social time and networking with Annapolis Green Drinks.
Contact the Maryland Sierra Club office at 301-277-7111 with questions or to coordinate carpooling. More information
and RSVP is available at the MD League of Conservation Voters web site: http://www.mdlcv.org Information about
Annapolis Green Drinks is available here: http://www.annapolisgreen.com/greendrinks/index.html
Tues, Jan 21, Greenbelt Climate Action Network, 7-9:15 pm, Room 114, Greenbelt Community Center, 15 Crescent
Drive. Topic “TBA”. For more info, contact Lore, lore@simplicity-matters.org, 301-345-2234,
http://chears.org/gcan/monthly-meetings/
Wed, Jan 22, NoVA Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions, 7 pm - 9 pm, Oakton, MD
Through education, communications and action, the Religious Action on Climate group works to engage and encourage
faith-based communities to identify and advocate for solutions to climate change. The group will work to connect with
other faith communities to engage their communities, pass congregational resolutions and to get involved. For more
information contact Eric Goplerud, Goplerud-Eric@norc.org. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, 2709 Hunter
Mill Rd, Oakton.
Thu, Jan 23, Webinar: Community Power Program for Organizations, 6 pm - 7 pm
If your religious community pays its electric bill in DC or in Maryland, you may have an opportunity for your congregation
to both save thousands of dollars on energy bills and also support clean power. Organizations combine their purchasing
power to secure a lower electricity rate, support clean energy through purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), and
obtain a low residential wind energy rate that they can offer to their members. To register for the webinar: email your
name, the name of your congregation, and the date of the webinar for which you are registering to karen@gwipl.org, with
"CPP" in the subject line.
Sat, Jan 25, "Keep Winter Cold" Polar Bear Plunge, 10:30 am - 12 noon, National Plaza National Harbor, Maryland
The annual "Keep Winter Cold" Polar Bear Plunge is the Chesapeake Climate Action Network's priority grassroots
fundraising event -- powering our victories to move off of planet-heating fossil fuels and to clean energy. Once a year,
activists, friends and families in the MD/DC/VA region demonstrate their commitment to combat climate change by taking
a quick dip into the icy Potomac River at National Harbor. www.firstgiving.com/chesapeakeclimate/keepwintercold2014
Sat, Jan 25, Seed Exchange, 12:30 pm - 4 pm, Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Washington Gardener, the publication for DC- area gardening enthusiasts, is hosting the seventh annual Washington
Seed Exchange. This event includes lectures, face-to-face seed swap, and more. You bring your extra seeds to swap with
other gardeners. Everyone will leave with a bag full of seeds, new garden friends and expert planting advice. Fee includes
lectures, goody bag and seed swap. Register by calling 703-642-5173. Fee: $15/person $10 for Washington Gardener
subscribers and Friends of Brookside Gardens. For more information, contact Kathy Jentz, Washington Gardener
Magazine, 301-588-6894, WGardenermag@aol.com. Directions: www.brooksidegardens.org
Mon, Jan 27, Maryland Showcase of Sustainability, 8 am - 11 am, The Westin Annapolis 100 Westgate Cir,
Annapolis, MD
Join us as we hear from state and agency officials, and local government representatives about the current regulations
and practices for green building in Maryland. This event will feature panel presentations to highlight innovative practices
and what's being done in communities across Maryland.
www.usgbcmd.org/calendar?eventId=802168&EventViewMode=EventDetails
Tue, Jan 28, Baltimore City Sustainability Commission Meetings, 4 pm - 5 pm, Department of Planning, 8th Fl, 417
E. Fayette St. Baltimore MD
The Baltimore Commission on Sustainability holds regular monthly meetings usually on the fourth Tuesday of every
month. All meetings are open to the public. The Commission is made up of 21 members representing environmental
groups, community organizations, labor unions, public health and environmental justice interests, and private industry.
www.baltimorecity.gov/Government/AgenciesDepartments/Planning/OfficeofSustainability.aspx

Tue, Jan 28, AIA COTE Monthly Meeting, 6 pm - 7 pm
The Committee on the Environment was formed to promote the benefits of environmentally-conscious design and
construction within the building professions and the community at large. We are planning inspiring and educational events
for architects and associates in the coming year. We hold monthly meetings, and welcome your participation. Carri Beer,
AIA cbeer@brennanarch.com. www.aiabalt.com/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=50
Tue, Jan 28 and Thu, Jan 30, Volunteer Naturalist Training for Maple Sugaring at Irvine Nature Center, 9:30 am 12:30 pm, Owings Mills, MD
Maple sugar making has been an early spring activity for centuries. This 2-session course will equip you to lead preschool
and elementary-aged students on maple sugaring school field trips at Irvine. Learn how to recognize maple trees in
winter, how to tap the trees to collect the sap, and how to boil down the sap down into maple syrup and candy. We will
also cover teaching techniques and other signs of winter. $10. Please contact Courtney Sagal at 443-738-9224 or
CourtneySagal@ExploreNature.org for more information.
Thu, Jan 30 - Sat, Feb 1, Green Roof Professional Training, Washington, DC
North America's most comprehensive green roof training program returns to DC this Fall. Now it's more affordable than
ever before to prepare to earn the Green Roof Professional (GRP) designation – the premier distinction for green roof
designers and practitioners. Get the latest information on green roof benefits, technical standards, product innovations,
and design and installation best practices. Gain access to hundreds of technical papers, visit outstanding projects, and
prepare to participate in an industry that posted 24% growth last year.
www.greenroofs.org/resources/DC_Green_Roof_Boot_Camp_Jan_2014.html
Fri, Jan 31, Baltimore Bike Party, 7 pm - 9:30 pm
Come ride and party through the great streets of Baltimore City with all your friends the last Friday of every month! We
stay together as a group and follow a pre-determined route through the city. The wheels hit the road at 7:30. We usually
ride until ~9:30 with 1 or 2 stops along the way. The ride is a slow pace (~6-10mph) designed to keep everyone of all
biking abilities together! We are all here to have a good time. Have a friend(s) with a bike? Bring them along! Don’t have
any friends? Come make some! baltimorebikeparty.com/

******************
FEBRUARY PREVIEW & BEYOND
******************
Sat, Feb 1, 7th Annual Seed Exchange, 12:30 pm - 4 pm, Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria, VA
Washington Gardener, the publication for DC- area gardening enthusiasts, is co-hosting the seventh annual Washington
Seed Exchange at Green Spring Gardens. This event includes lectures, face-to-face seed swap, and more. You bring
your extra seeds to swap with other gardeners. Everyone will leave with a bag full of seeds, new garden friends and
expert planting advice. Fee includes lectures, goody bag and seed swap. Register by calling 703-642-5173. Fee:
$15/person $10 for Washington Gardener subscribers and Friends of Green Spring. For more information, contact Kathy
Jentz, Washington Gardener Magazine, 301-588-6894, WGardenermag@aol.com. Directions:
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/greenspring/
Feb 10-20, Permaculture Design Certification, 6pm Tues - 4:30pm Thurs, Harpers Ferry, WV
A 10 Day Intensive Permaculture Design Certification Course at Rolling Ridge Retreat Center. Taught by the Rewilding
School, this unique PDC will include skills & technologies useful for sustainable winter living, including the patterns,
principles, and theory for transitioning towards ecologically balanced living all year round. Dynamic Tuition Structure of
$794 - $1220 includes meals and lodging. For more details go to Events at www.RollingRidge.net or email Josh at
jsbevans@gmail.com.
Tue, Feb 11, Bike Maryland's Annual Bicycle Symposium, 8 am - 2:30 pm, Annapolis, MD
This free event is your chance to learn from bicycle leaders, transportation planners, community leaders and legislative
officials who will present on current topics with the goal of increasing bicycle safety, connectivity and accessibility at this
free premier event that includes lunch. The symposium draws over 300 experts, decision-makers, and enthusiasts, from
the MD, DC, PA, DE and VA area, who share an interest in bicycling safety, legislation and infrastructure. Learn more
at www.bikemd.org
Sun, Feb 16, 2:00 p.m. Earth Forum of Howard County, First Presbyterian Church, 9325 Presbyterian
Circle, Columbia, MD
The February Earth Forum features Dr. Robert L. Thompson, former assistant Secretary of Agriculture, USDA. Dr.
Thompson will present "From Farm to Table: The challenge of feeding 9.7 billion better than today, at reasonable cost
without damaging the environment." For more information, contact earthforum@firstpreshc.org or call (410) 730-3545.

******************

ACTION OPPORTUNITIES, DEADLINES, & TIDBITS
******************
Join the Keystone XL Pledge of Resistance/Civil Disobedience Training: Looking to fight the good fight? Then
consider joining a group of activists who are currently preparing to participate in 2 local Sit-Ins, all part of the Pledge of
Resistance to the Keystone XL Pipeline. If President Obama approves the KXL pipeline, we will commit planned and
peaceful acts of civil disobedience at a target in downtown Silver Spring and another in Ellicott City. If you are interested
in learning more, please email Kristin Cook at kristingamzoncook@gmail.com or Carla Tevelow at perlpubl@gmail.com .
We are planning more trainings over the next three months. Read more about the Pledge of Resistance and sign up for a
specific sit-in location here: http://nokxl.org/
Support Renewable Integration: Balance Power Systems is a company of engineers addressing needs instead of return
on investment. We are non-profit and develop enabling products to make renewables more cost competitive and achieve
economies of scale. Our goals are to create awareness of electricity cost drivers and motivate investment in load shifting
technologies that will better accommodate variable generation. We are electricity suppliers in the MD BGE/PEPCO
service territories. Your enrollment will enable us to develop the products needed to achieve a sustainable future and your
feedback will enable us to coordinate our effort with other sustainability initiatives. See
www.BalancePowerSystems.com or contact Joe Criscione at jcriscione@BalancePowerSystems.com or 301 801 8932
Fri, Jan 3, Baltimore Green Week Proposal Deadline
Community members (students, teachers, gov’t, business and organizational leaders, activists, et al) are encouraged to
participate during the 11th Annual Baltimore Green Week but submitting an environmentally focused activity, lecture,
workshops, etc... that aims to inform and engage the community. For more information, go to
http://baltimoregreenworks.com/events/baltimore-green-week/
Fri, Jan 10, Chesapeake Bay Trust's Grant Deadline
Environmental Education K-12 Mini Grant; Grant Manager- Kacey Wetzel, 410-974-2941, ext. 104. The Chesapeake Bay
Trust Mini Grant Program supports activities such as Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE), teacher
professional development and programs to advance environmental literacy in the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and
streams. www.cbtrust.org/site/c.miJPKXPCJnH/b.5457547/k.28ED/Mini_Grant.htm
Fri, Jan 10, GreenBuild Call for Proposals Deadline
Call for Proposals - Education Sessions and Reviewers Greenbuild and Greenbuilding Brasil are currently accepting
proposals from industry experts eager to share their knowledge and expertise with audiences at Greenbuild. This is your
chance to shape the content of education sessions! Greenbuild is also seeking peer reviewers to evaluate session
proposals. Reviewers are eligible to present at Greenbuild and receive $100 discount off a Greenbuild full conference
registration www.greenbuildexpo.org/education/education-session-development/call-for-proposals.aspx
Fri, Jan 10, K-12 Environmental Education Mini Grant Deadline
The Chesapeake Bay Trust Mini Grant Program supports activities such as Meaningful Watershed Educational
Experiences (MWEE), teacher professional development and programs to advance environmental literacy in the
Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams. What this funds: Activities such as Meaningful Watershed Educational
Experiences (MWEE), teacher professional development and programs to advance environmental literacy. Who can
apply: Non-profit organizations, community associations, faith-based organizations and more. Grant Manager- Kacey
Wetzel, 410-974-2941, ext. 104.
www.cbtrust.org/site/c.miJPKXPCJnH/b.5457547/k.D6AC/K12_Environmental_Education_Mini_Grant.htm
Fri, Jan 24, COTE Top Ten Green Project Deadline
2014 COTE Top Ten Green Projects/ Top Ten Plus Call for Entries Deadline for Submissions: January 24, 2014 by
5:00pm ET aiatopten.org/
Wed, Jan 29, 2014 Endangered Maryland Nomination Deadline
The Endangered Maryland list is selected annually and features properties that reflect the diversity of Maryland's heritage
of sites and traditions, and illustrates the threats facing them. Since the program originated in 2007, listed sites have
benefited from increased public awareness, and the opportunity to create dialogue and find solutions to preserve these
endangered sites across the state. www.preservationmaryland.org/programs/endangered-maryland/
Wed Jan 29, NOAA B-Wet Grant Deadline
FY14 NOAA B-Wet Grant -The goal of this funding opportunity is to support K-12 environmental education programs that
provide students with meaningful watershed educational experiences (MWEEs) related to the Chesapeake Bay and
related professional development for in-service teachers, administrators, or other educators serving K-12 students.

chesapeakebay.noaa.gov/bwet
Fri, Jan 31, Parks and People Grants Deadline
Grants for Park Projects: In cooperation with Baltimore City’s Department of Recreation and Parks, Partnerships for Parks
provides resources, training and support to organizations that work to improve their communities through park
stewardship. Projects must occur on property owned by Baltimore City Department of recreation and Parks. Awards range
from $500- $5,000. Neighborhood Greening: Examples of greening projects eligible for a grant include, but are not limited
to: vacant lot clean–up and restoration projects, community gardens, rain gardens, tree plantings, alley gating,
neighborhood clean-ups, schoolyard greening, water quality improvement and environmental education activities. Grants
of up to $1,000 are available twice per year. www.parksandpeople.org/



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