Gaia Community: Boulder Community's Blog

Join Us For Conversation Week in Boulder

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 18:25:45 GMT

We are hosting a Conversation Cafe Event in Boulder for Converation week.

Conversation Café and
Gaia Gathering Boulder
Join Us in a Global Conversation celebrating Conversation Week 2008. Get together and meet each other in person, share your passions for connection and community.

When:
Wednesday, March 26th
7:00 – 8:45 pm

Where:
Boulder Public Library
George Reynolds Branch
3595 Table Mesa Dr.

Our Question:
How do we shift from "Me" to "We" on both the local and global levels? (From “me” to “we”)

Where do you see a need to shift from “me” to “we”? What can a “we” approach give us that a “me” approach doesn't, and vice versa? What needs to change to have people used to “me” engaged in “we” solutions? In your family and community, where have you seen collaboration work wonders when competition and confrontation failed? How can 6.6 billion people work together?

We are hold space for fun, casual conversations and co-creating an opportunity for conscious networking. If you are interested in attending please send Mark (me) or Kelly an email here at Gaia or directly at mark@gaia.com

What is Conversation Week about?
Promoting community, democracy and wisdom world-wide through generating millions of open, respectful public conversations.

Conversation Cafés are lively hosted conversations among small groups of people with diverse views but a shared passion for engaging with others. Held in public spaces like cafés, restaurants and bookstores.

Conversation Cafés provide an open forum to talk about important topics over a cup of coffee or tea. People of every philosophical, political and personality stripe circle up around tables and steaming beverages to earnestly shift from small talk to BIG talk. Everyone is welcome. There's nothing to join. Anyone can come, just once or many times. There are no books to read, no assignments, and no dues (except a bite to eat at the café).

Conversation Cafés can not only provide closer communities, they can also be a conduit to providing additional local business exposure. Read more...

At Conversation Cafés, we will learn together how to create a culture of conversation-which is a culture of intelligence, peace, and political awareness. We are the media. We are the talk shows. We are America, waking up and tuning in.

more at the Conversation Cafe Website

If you're interested in hosting your own Conversation Cafe check out our Gaia Team Blog and our Gaia Gathering pod here at Gaia.

We would love to see you in person. Please send Mark (me) or Kelly an email here at Gaia or directly at mark@gaia.com and let us know you will be attending.

We look forward to meeting more of our Gaia friends around Boulder!

Tags: Boulder, Colorado, conversation cafe, conversation week

Boulder Sustainability News

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 16:43:39 GMT

Dear Friends of the Center -

You are invited! to a free presentation I am giving on Thursday evening from 7 to 8:30 pm through Boulder County Going Local's lecture series "The Great Reskilling". The topic of my presentation is "The Ethics of Sustainable Culture" and it will be held at Boulder Meadows Community Center at the corner of 19th and Violet. Topic description from the BCGL website:

THE ETHICS OF SUSTAINABLE CULTURE: Feb 28 (Thurs) What would a sustainable human culture look like? What ethics are needed to support human culture indefinitely within a healthy ecosystem? What are the ethics we've been living so far, and what impact has that had on our world? How do we repair the damage and more towards a positive future? How do we change? These and other questions on creating healthy sustainable human culture will be explored in this hopeful, positive talk.

Run, don't walk.... to get the latest copy of Yes! Magazine (dedicated to building a just and sustainable world). The latest edition focuses on Stopping Global Warming Cold and it's well worth your time with articles by Bill McKibben and more. There a host of POSITIVE solutions and steps we can all take.

Upcoming classes:
•Fruit Tree Grafting with Marco Lam and Dave Carlson - Saturday, Mar 2 10-4 pm $100... a few spots still open!
•Succession Planting for Continuous Veggies with Rich Pecoraro of Abbondanza - Saturday Mar. 8 pm, 1-5 pm $45...3 spots still open!
•Backyard Chickens with Jamie Furstoss and Kelly Simmons - Sunday, Mar. 16, 1-5 pm $50....filling up fast!
•Secrets of Building Soil with Sandy Cruz and friends - Saturday, Apr 5, 10-4:30 pm $65.... sign up now for Spring planting
•Organic Backyard Beekeeping with Corwin Bell and Kelly Simmons - Saturday, May 3 10-2pm $50.....You can do this!

To register for classes visit the website at www.bouldersustainability.org and click on the Programs link. Once registered for classes you will receive a confirmation notice with details of where to go, what to bring and more.

There are a few spots still open in the upcoming "Permaculture through the Seasons" course with Sandy Cruz and Becky Elder.

We hope this finds you well. Best wishes for a bountiful Spring!

Kelly Simmons, Director
Boulder Sustainability Education Center
www.bouldersustainability.org

Tags: boulder, colorado, sustainability, permaculture, going local

Sync Up with Sacred Time ~ Mayan Calendar Workshop

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:48:48 GMT

Carlos Cedillo

www.Cosmicjaguar.com

Author of

Cosmicjaguar’s Soul Kin Journal: A Personal Guide to Navigating the End Times Using the Mayan Calendar

Sync Up With Sacred Time

Mayan Calendar workshops and readings

Tuesday March 11 (13 Jaguar) 7 to 9pm

CHAC – Chicano Humanities and Arts Center

772 Santa Fe Drive Denver, CO 80204

303-571-0440

Overview and practical uses of the Mayan sacred calendar. $40

Wednesday March 12 (1 Eagle) and Friday March 14(3 Earth)

IX CHEL Healing Arts Inc.

7323 W. 38th Ave. www.Ixchelhealingarts.com

303 422-1242

Private readings of Mayan “Horoscopes”

Call and sign up today! $60 -$100

March 13 (2 Owl)

SOLSTICE CENTER in Boulder 6 to 8 pm

302 Pearl St.

303-939-8463 or 303-818-9532 (cell).

Deeper context and prophecies of the Mayan calendar $40

March 16 (5 Rainstorm)

METAPHYSICAL BOOKSTORE 2 to 4 pm

2178 S. Colorado Blvd.

303-758-9113

Booksigning and discussion (donation)

Tags: workshop, Boulder, Colorado, mayan, cosmic jaguar

Visionboard Workshop Feb 2nd

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 18:09:04 GMT

Visionboard Workshop

Peace Together presents:

a Visionboard Workshop: Saturday, February 2nd -- Noon to 5pm

for more information or to reserve a spot in the limited space, call or email fellow Gaia member, Joseph Bernard, at 720-519-0743 or 303-320-6123 // email: jbernard@peace-together.com

Cost of workshop (with all materials and snacks/drinks included): $35

Tags: visionboard, workshop, collage, peace together, Joseph Bernard

World Sound Healing Day Celebration

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 16:44:35 GMT

Jonathan and Friends will be co-creating a FREE toning ceremony from 5 pm to 6pm on February 14th in celebration of World Sound Healing Day. This is sure to be a harmonious event.

Tags: world sound healing day, Jonathan Goldman, Boulder, Colorado

Zaangha Boulder - January 12th

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:59:47 GMT

Zaangha Time

When: Saturday, January 12th 2008 from Noon to 3pm

Where:

Folsom Street Coffee
1795 Folsom St
Boulder, CO 80302
(303) 440-8808

Get directions - View larger map

zDETAILS: What a wonderful opportunity we have to get together, meet each other in person and get a feel for the passion that our community has and the changes they want to create in the world! I've spoken with Rick, the owner of Folsom Street Coffee, and he has reserved space for Zaadzsters to meet in their roomy establishment! Folsom Street Coffee also has wireless internet access, so if you'd like to bring your laptops - you are more than welcome to do so! I figure that we will be sharing many aspects of ourselves with the people that we meet! I highly encourage bringing any pamphlets or business cards to hand out to people that you will be meeting … the idea here is to make some local connections and get the network moving offline concurrently with the online connections.

If you know you will be attending please email me here on Zaadz, or directly at kelly@zaadz.com … that way I can better prepare the space (and surprises) for the number of people attending. I also assumed that this would be a great place to mix, mingle, come & go, and network quite casually … while also making some really great friendship connections. There will be a couple of interactive pieces to play with … that will be brought back to the online experience to share with everyone! So, the one hint I'd like to give: Think about what you are most passionate about and how you are sharing that with the world - or your community.

Beverages are obviously purchasable at the Folsom Street Coffee establishment, they serve (well, clearly…) Espresso Drinks, Coffee & Tea, and ”Everything Else” … as well as Goodies to Eat!!

I am SO looking forward to meeting up with many of my virtual friends… finally in person!!!

LET'S ZAANGHA BOULDER!!!!

Tags: zaangha, boulder, colorado

Boulder Backyard Chickens ~ local food resource

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 16:25:05 GMT

Photo by Paul Aiken

One of Kelly Simmons' New Hampshire Reds in her chicken pen.

Photo by Paul Aiken

Kelly Simmons gives her flock of chickens and ducks a special treat of greens as she tends to them behind her Boulder home.

Backyard Chickens
source: Daily Camera

Last year about this time, Kelly Simmons was perusing hatchery catalogs, looking at various types of chickens with an eye to raising them at her home in Martin Acres-- a city neighborhood characterized by '50s-style ranch homes and small yards.

A year later, she's collecting eggs, although not as many as she did last summer when she was gathering as many as 19 a day from her nine chickens and four ducks. Simmons, who teaches classes through the nonprofit Boulder Sustainability Education Center, says keeping the chickens is a logical extension of her large garden, a way to be closely involved in the food she and her family eat.

Tags: boulder, colorado, sustainability, chickens, living local

INTRODUCTION TO PERMACULTURE PRINCIPLES

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 04:17:33 GMT

"Permaculture offers a radical approach to food production and urban renewal, water, energy and pollution. It integrates ecology, landscape, organic gardening, architecture and agro-forestry in creating a rich and sustainable way of living. It uses appropriate technology giving high yields for low energy inputs, achieving a resource of great diversity and stability. The design principles are equally applicable to both urban and rural dwellers. " --Bill Mollison

Dear friends of BVR and the BOULDER COUNTY GOING LOCAL! Campaign,

As you know, Richard Heinberg and others have pointed to the urgent need for millions of new farmers in this country over the next several years, and one of the best ways of helping to achieve this goal is to get as many people as possible trained in Permaculture principles and methods. Fortunately, interest in Permaculture is booming in Boulder County, which will help stimulate the expansion of our local foodshed.

On January 7 (Mon.), 7:00 p.m., Sandy Cruz of High Altitude Permaculture Institute will be teaching INTRODUCTION TO PERMACULTURE PRINCIPLES. The class will be free for those who register (call 303-459-3494), and will be held at Boulder Meadows Community Room, 4500 19th Street (Violet & 19th in North Boulder).

Following a dynamic conclusion to the PERMACULTURE THROUGH THE SEASONS! Design Certification Course last month (with 35 graduates), we are pleased to announce that Sandy Cruz will be teaching another eight-month course in 2008, along with Becky Elder, a permaculture activist and gardener from Manitou Springs. Guest teachers will include Marco Chung-Shu Lam and Jerome Osentowski. The course, sponsored by Boulder County Going Local, will be held the second weekend of each month, March 8 through October 12. A descriptive flyer is available here. Register soon, because this course will sell out quickly! Sandy says, "Please think about joining us this year, and let your friends know, too. We expect the course to fill, so if you're considering signing up or applying for a scholarship, be sure to request a registration form soon. Our super-early-bird discount will be in effect until January 8th, followed by our early-bird discount until February 8th." To register, call Sandy at 303-459-3494.

Sandy and Becky will also be offering the first locally-based course for PERMACULTURE TEACHER'S CERTIFICATION, providing ongoing support for new teachers and opportunities to assist experienced instructors at workshops. Winter classroom work will focus on developing teaching and organizational skills, with hands-on exercises to build confidence and ease. Participants will then assist at diverse Permaculture workshops offered along the Front Range, and have an individual conference with the instructor. Dates of the course are February 9, 16, 23 and July 26. The closing day of the course will focus on future collaboration among participants by developing teaching teams and designing a local workshop curriculum for Fall 2008-2009. Details available here.

Planning for other Permaculture Design Courses in 2008 is underway. Pikes Peak Permaculture in Colorado Springs will hold a Design Certification Course in the eight-month format beginning in April. In the Boulder area, Sandy will teach a variety of one and two-day permaculture workshops on specific subjects beginning in the spring. She will also be training new instructors this winter to help meet the soaring demand for Permaculture education.

Meanwhile, Bill Wilson, the "permaculture evangelist" of Midwest Permaculture, will host a Design Certification Course in a different format in April. This is a 72-hour course, with 12 hours of webinar instruction, and eight consecutive days of on-site work in Boulder County (April 19-26). Details available soon.

We hope you will take advantage of some of the incredible Permaculture instruction that is becoming available!

Tags: going local, permaculture, boulder, colorado

Eat Local in Boulder County

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 21:03:06 GMT

From: Eat Local Guide

The Guide is the result of months of effort by many people. It was originally inspired by the Eat Local Food Map produced as part of the Ft. Collins Be Local Coupon Book published last September, the inspiration of Gailmarie Kimmel of the Rocky Mountain Sustainable Living Association. When we saw that map, we knew instantly that we needed to create something similar for Boulder County.

A team of Boulder Valley Relocalization volunteers ("foodies" to the core) jumped in to do the initial legwork. We quickly found that no comprehensive lists of growers and other food sources had ever been developed here, and went to work contacting farmers and restaurateurs directly to get their information. It became an overwhelming task, and the list grew to immense proportions-way too many sources to fit on a map! That ultimately led to our decision to publish the list in a magazine format. An EAT LOCAL! website will soon follow (www.eatlocalguide.com).

There were many unexpected challenges we encountered along the way. For instance, how could we tell whether a restaurant was really serving locally-grown produce? How much of their food had to be local to include them in the list? To help make the tough decisions, we asked chefs to tell us what growers they bought their produce from. And we coordinated with the Boulder County Farmers' Market "Restaurant Fresh Connection" program to find out which restaurants were actually acknowledged by growers and got their "farm vote."

It's inevitable that we've left some sources off the list who should be here and have included others who might be questionable. And that's part of why this is the "fall preview edition." We know that the first annual edition, which we plan to publish in early spring, will naturally be more comprehensive and accurate. For that, we depend on your feedback. If you know of someone who should be listed in the guide, please email us (info@bouldergoinglocal.com).

--Michael Brownlee, publisher
Boulder County Going Local

Tags: Boulder, Colorado, eat local, going local

Boulder County has a New Eat Local Resource Guide

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:32:06 GMT

from Eat Local Guide

The Guide is the result of months of effort by many people. It was originally inspired by the Eat Local Food Map produced as part of the Ft. Collins Be Local Coupon Book published last September, the inspiration of Gailmarie Kimmel of the Rocky Mountain Sustainable Living Association. When we saw that map, we knew instantly that we needed to create something similar for Boulder County.

A team of Boulder Valley Relocalization volunteers ("foodies" to the core) jumped in to do the initial legwork. We quickly found that no comprehensive lists of growers and other food sources had ever been developed here, and went to work contacting farmers and restaurateurs directly to get their information. It became an overwhelming task, and the list grew to immense proportions-way too many sources to fit on a map! That ultimately led to our decision to publish the list in a magazine format. An EAT LOCAL! website will soon follow (www.eatlocalguide.com).

There were many unexpected challenges we encountered along the way. For instance, how could we tell whether a restaurant was really serving locally-grown produce? How much of their food had to be local to include them in the list? To help make the tough decisions, we asked chefs to tell us what growers they bought their produce from. And we coordinated with the Boulder County Farmers' Market "Restaurant Fresh Connection" program to find out which restaurants were actually acknowledged by growers and got their "farm vote."

It's inevitable that we've left some sources off the list who should be here and have included others who might be questionable. And that's part of why this is the "fall preview edition." We know that the first annual edition, which we plan to publish in early spring, will naturally be more comprehensive and accurate. For that, we depend on your feedback. If you know of someone who should be listed in the guide, please email us (info@bouldergoinglocal.com).

--Michael Brownlee, publisher
Boulder County Going Local

Check out the Eat Local Guide

Tags: Boulder, Colorado, eat local, going local

Natural Products Convenience and Gas ~ New in Boulder

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 19:06:53 GMT

from Beyourownmedicine
If your one who is still driving a car and need to purchase gas but want a more conscious place to buy from, check out Moto. Its the hip, clean station on the corner of Canyon Boulevard and Folsom Street in Boulder. When I noticed the Eco-Cycle box next to the pumps, I knew something was up. I went in and enthusiastically questioned Michael Marsilio about his new business. Michael shared that his gas is 100% domestic (foreign oil is crude), his store is a Cancer Free Zone (no cigarettes sold), and natural and organic foods are sold. Hell Yeah!!! It's about time!!! Ohh, did I mention the Illy espresso bar?

I know it is crazy to get excited about a gas station practicing conscious business but I love it!!! He is creating an experience that I will be drawn to when I go to fill up for gas. For those who live in Boulder, have you seen this place?

Tags: boulder, colorado, moto

MsK is organizing a Zaangha

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 18:22:45 GMT

From Ms K

Well, I decided that I really want to start getting things organized for a gathering here locally…. I've been meeting so many wonderful people online who live nearby… so I am using a new service from an acquaintance that I met at Bioneers… and I'm going to allow you to vote on when you'd like to meet – namely, those who are in the Boulder area (or close enough to drive for a great visit!) It's gonna be a party unlike any other!! :)

So … HERE'S THE LINK TO GO VOTE ON WHAT DAY YOU'D PREFER TO ZAANGHA!

Once I get the date determined… I will find a location within the Boulder area that can handle the size of group that we end up having… (let's DREAM BIG, eh?!)

So, let's get this party started…. with a VOTE!!

And if you know of other Zaadzsters in the area … pass this link along to them and make it even bigger!!!

I am SO excited to be able to meet some of you for the first time!!!! Can't we go ahead and do this tomorrow, already!?!?! ;)

Let's Zaangha!
~K

more direct contact? kelly(at)zaadz.com

Tags: zaangha, boulder, community, meetup

Modern Immortal ~ New from Falling Fruit

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:20:57 GMT

Falling Fruit just launched another new show. Check it out.

Modern Immortal

About this show:

Do you want to learn how to live more fully? Modern Immortal is your resource to learn techniques and disciplines to push your vitality to its full potential. We are committed to asking tough questions as we dialogue with leaders in a variety of alternative health fields. No solution is off limits, ancient or modern, eastern or western, as we explore the life of the Modern Immortal.

Running Time: 23:09 Hosted by:

Marco Lam , Benjamin Woodard

In this episode Marco and Ben talk about what "Modern Immortal" means. They define immortality as being on top of your world, mentally, physically, and spiritually, and not just surviving, but thriving as a human being. The show is described as a tonic for the mind, giving people the knowledge to strengthen themselves in the short and long terms. They talk about how to attain vitality now in the modern world of technology, in traveling, and in our busy lives.

Marco and Ben express their excitement about the shows future guests, asking the questions that you want to hear, and doing so through applying healthy skepticism to both alternative and conventional approaches. Marco speaks to how alternative medicine has been lumped together with both garbage and amazing techniques in the same baskets. They touch upon some of the topics they will cover this winter including immunity while traveling, staying balanced in winter, and sex for vitality.

Who are the Modern Immortals? Ben and Marco speak about people who they feel are Modern Immortals, including Mantak Chia, Master Wu, and Charley Cropley. Finally you get to hear about Marco and Ben's personal journey's with the healing arts.

Download audio file

Tags: boulder, colorado, falling fruit, podcast

Giving Thanks ~ Special Community Celebration

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:12:40 GMT

GIVING THANKS
NOV. 24
A FREE Mini Retreat Day
w/ Cheri Shanti

In Gratitude For the Boulder Community

Building Community Thru Gratitude!

Morning Gratitude Hike
Yoga
Meditation
Potluck
Music
Open Mic Sharing Session
Drumming, Dancing & More

Events ongoing from 1 PM-1 AM
Mandala Community Center
2516 Broadway

See www.rhythmharvest.com for Full Schedule of Events
For more info: 720-234-0921/ cheri(at)rhythmharvest.com
*Please bring food/beverages to share for the potluck, your own plate & utensils, yoga mats, instruments, songs, and your grateful hearts.

*Donations to help cover expenses for Mandala & Cheri will be gratefully accepted, but ARE NOT required. Suggested donation: $20-40.

*VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED & GREATLY APPRECIATED.

Tags: boulder, colorado, community, thanksgiving, retreat, yoga, hiking, mediatation, music, potluck, drumming

Events at Boulder Center for Integral Living

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 20:40:47 GMT

This coming Tuesday, Nov. 6th

"The Natural Theology of Beauty, Truth, and Goodness" with Steve McIntosh

7-9 pm (not 6-8 pm as previously announced) @ Boulder Center for Integral Living

2819 Broadway (NW corner of Broadway & Balsam)
Boulder, CO 80304

Dear Friends,

This is an invitation to another wonderful event, sponsored by Boulder Center for Integral Living. It will be the second time that author Steve McIntosh returns to BCIL with his knowledge on matters of integral consciousness. Also see below for information on a Spiral Dynamics workshop that will be taught by Ross Hostetter, and pictures from our recent event with Robert Masters and Diane Bardwell.

To give you an idea, the presentation by Steve McIntosh describes how the values known as the beautiful, the true, and the good play a central role in the evolution of the universe, serving as attractors of evolutionary development that pull evolution forward from the inside through their influence on consciousness.

As Steve says, "this ancient and venerable triad of values can be expansively understood as descriptions of the actual directions of evolution in nature, self, and culture. Understanding where evolution is headed is, of course, a central inquiry for a philosophy that defines itself in evolutionary terms. But questions about of the directions of evolution's unfolding are not just relevant to integral philosophers; properly understood, these questions relate to every situation in which the need for improvement can be recognized. And as it now becomes increasingly necessary for humanity to participate in guiding cultural evolution toward a more positive future, knowledge of evolution's essential methods, techniques, and directions is of critical importance."

So folks, we hope that you will be able to join us for this wonderful evening. Bring friends! This presentation (free) will also include Q&A.

~ Additional Events ~

Spiral Dynamics: A Theory that Explains Human Values - A Presentation by Ross Hostetter

A series of 3 Mondays at the City Club in Boulder:

November 12th: 6 - 8:30pm: The First Tier Value Systems
December 17th: 6 - 8:30pm: The Integral Vision
January 7th: 12:30 - 2pm: Lunch & Discussion Group with Ross, led by Patricia Albere

Note from Ross Hostetter

"Come join me for a few hours of fun, good food and intellectual stimulation as we experience an interactive multimedia presentation that sweeps through human history and introduces Spiral Dynamics, a theory that explains the development of human values. Spiral Dynamics theory gives insights into the values that drive big systems: economies, cultures, religions, and warfare; and is also the most useful tool I've ever encountered in working with people. It leads to an appreciation of the good in others who don't think as we do; predicts what they can do well, and provides a clear forewarning of their pathologies.

"The model is also one of the primary foundations of the emerging Integral movement. It provides a language that Integralists use on a daily basis to describe the evolution of moral growth through stages of consciousness, and is an important tool used in their efforts to see and create the next waves of human evolution. After these presentations you will start to see humanity in spiral colors, and will wonder how you ever got along without this kind of map. I hope you can join us!"

Evening presentations in the Grand Room of the beautiful City Club
885 Arapahoe Ave. (NW corner Arapahoe and 9th in Boulder)
$ 25.00 for members and guests. Includes gorgeous appetizer buffet, bottomless beverages and wine

*Ross is a new member of the City Club who has recently relocated to Boulder with his family after a 27 year career as lawyer in Texas, where he was one of the prime movers behind the attorney-mediation movement. During his legal career he was hired to help resolve over 3,000 lawsuits, developed a national consulting practice, and was co-founder of a training academy that introduced over a thousand lawyers to the art of mediation. He came to Boulder to become the first General Counsel of the Integral Institute, and is currently a coordinator of the Boulder Center for Integral Living. Ross has a level 2 certification in Spiral Dynamics from Don Beck.

* * *

Tags: boulder, colorado, integral, boulder center for integral living

A Little Help from Your Friends

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 22:49:09 GMT

A warrior of light succeeds, thanks to the right allies.

~ by Paulo Coelho

All of you who see yourselves as warriors of light must share with others the happiness of your choices; otherwise, you’ll never come to know your own qualities and shortcomings. So before you undertake any major project, find allies – people who are interested in what you’re saying, “Find other warriors of light.” I’m saying, Find people with different skills, because a warriors fight for his or her dream is no different from any other path that is followed with enthusiasm.” Your allies won’t necessarily be people everyone looks at with admiration. Much to the contrary, they are people who aren’t afraid of making mistakes, so they make lots of mistakes. That’s why what they do isn’t always praised or acknowledged. Yet these types of people frequently change the world, because after making mistakes, they hit on something that is exactly right and will make all the difference to their communities.

Allies are people who can’t hang around waiting for things. They make decisions as they go along, even though they realize this type of behavior is risky. The best allies are those that don’t think like most people. That’s why, when looking for companions who share the enthusiasm of your dream, it’s important to believe in intuition and pay little heed to others’ comments. Most human beings judge others using their own limitations as models.

Join forces with those who experiment, take risks, fall, get hurt and then take risks again. Stay away from people who affirm conventional wisdom, those who criticize people who think differently, those who’ve never taken a step without being sure they’d be respected for it and those who prefer the comfort of certainty to the tension of doubt. Ally yourself with those who aren’t afraid of vulnerability – those who watch what their neighbors are doing, not to judge but to admire them for dedication and courage.

Join with those who are flexible. These are people who don’t hesitate to change direction when they come across an insurmountable barrier or when they spot a better opportunity. They possess the quality of water: getting around rocks, adapting to the flow of the river, sometimes changing into a lake – until the hollow is full and the stream can continue on its path, because water never forgets its destiny is the sea.

Join those who have never said, “That’s it; I have to stop here.” Because just as winter is followed by spring, nothing can stop, and the warrior’s road is an endless path. After you achieve your objective, you find another challenge, and it’s necessary to start all over again, always using everything you’ve learned while you’re traveling along.

Join with those who sing, tell stories, enjoy life and have joy in their eyes – because happiness is contagious and always manages to prevent people from becoming paralyzed by depression, loneliness and difficulties.

Join those who walk with their heads held high, even though they have tears in their eyes. Stay away from those who hold their heads high because they’ve never shed a tear.

True warriors of light don’t confuse arrogance and authority, joy and superficiality, persistence and impatience. They have their doubts and at times feel oppressed by loneliness, but know many think like they do and it’s just a matter of time until they find true allies.

Tags: paulo coelho, friends, warrior of light, allies, boulder, colorado

Going Local Thanksgiving Potluck

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 03:49:02 GMT

Come join us and EAT LOCAL! Thanksgiving potluck dinner and harvest celebration on Saturday, November 17, at 5:30 p.m. at the Altona Grange.

Boulder County Going Local has recently connected with the Altona Grange, and we will be hosting this event at the Grange Hall located at 39th and Nelson Road (Table Mountain area). We're hoping that several members of the Grange (which is in the process of being revitalized) will join us. An inspiring documentary film on community supported agriculture will be shown at 7:00 p.m.

Please bring food to share which was produced as locally as possible. And to be kind to those with particular food sensitivities (e.g., allergies) or ethical commitments (vegetarian/vegan), please label the ingredients of your offering.

Also, please bring your own utensils, napkins, dishes, bowls, etc. Water, coffee and tea will be provided.

Remember the pledge of the Locavore:
If not FROM BACKYARD, then locally produced.
If not LOCALLY PRODUCED, then organic.
If not ORGANIC, then family farm.
If not FAMILY FARM, then local business.
If not a LOCAL BUSINESS, then fair trade.
To get to the Grange, take Hiway 36 north of Boulder. Go about one mile past Left Hand Canyon and turn right onto Nelson Road. The Grange Hall will be about one mile east, at 39th and Nelson.

We look forward to your joining Boulder Going Local for this special evening at the Grange!

Tags: Boulder, Colorado, going local, potluck, thanksgiving

Conscious Business with Brian Johnson

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 16:30:15 GMT

Check out this awesome dialog with Brian Johnson on Falling Fruit. Brian talks a lot about living with passion, living with intention, knowing who you are and what you want. This is a strong core intention of this space. To share stories and resources of people living in awareness with themselves and with the entire earth…. and are aware of the local community and relocalization in the Boulder Colorado region.

Brian brings up a dialog about living in your genius. Can you live your genius?
Listen and find out what this question means.

~ Mark

Episode #2

Episode Notes:

Running Time: 21:43 Hosted by:

Theo Horesh , Duff McDuffee

Guests:

Brian Johnson

In this episode we talk with the founder and former CEO of Zaadz.com, Brian Johnson, and explore conscious business in relationship to areté, the classical Greek notion of living at one’s highest potential, as well as the archetypal hero’s journey. During our conversation we touch on how easy it is to look at people we admire and forget that they too struggled on their path to greatness. We also touch on the notion raised in Good Business: Leadership. Flow, and the Making of Meaning by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s, that it is the institutions with the tallest buildings that are the ones creating the culture, and thus the immense need for us to work with business in the modern day to create the world we want to see.

To find out more about Brian’s latest project, check out ThinkAreté.com.

Tags: brian johnson, conscious business, falling fruit, think arete

Tees for Change Interview with the founder, Andreea

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Sun, 04 Nov 2007 16:23:15 GMT

Tees for Change was recently started here in Boulder, Colorado. We asked Andreea, the founder to share a little bit about her company and how she is making a difference through conscious capitalism.

~ Mark

What is Tees for Change?

Tees For Change is a yoga-inspired apparel company dedicated to the power of positive thinking. Adorned with phrases such as 'choose happiness,' 'seek balance,' 'practice kindness' and 'today matters,' our organic cotton and bamboo shirts remind you to live life to the fullest.

Why did you start Tees for Change?

I started Tees For Change because I wanted to remind myself to think positively. I wanted to combine my love for organic and eco friendly living with my experience in marketing and with my love for positive thinking.

I noticed that you said you plan to change the world. How do you see that happening with Tee shirts?

I hope the tees will bring about change at many levels:

the person wearing the shirt - their mind shifts when they think about 'today matters,' for example. What does it mean to them?

the people who see someone wear our shirts - what does 'seek balance' mean to them? I hope it gets them to think about what the words on the shirts mean. There's often an inner conversation that subconsciously happens when you see a tee with our messages

the people manufacturing the shirts - by supporting organic farming, we help protect the people who grow and harvest our cotton and bamboo. They don't breathe in all the nasty chemicals and pesticides that conventional cotton uses.

the environment - by using sustainable materials we help protect our environment and we also plant a tree for every tee we sell

What inspires you to live the change everyday?

I am inspired by people who do good things and people who want to make a difference. I am inspired when someone who buys our shirts writes a thank you note and tells me how the tees have made a change in his/her life. I am inspired by the people I come in contact with through Tees For Change. My family and friends inspire me.

Where can I buy Tees for Change?

You can check out our list of retailers at www.teesforchange.com and also on our website. We're currently in almost 50 yoga studios and boutiques across the country.

What are your most popular Tees?

Anything with 'choose happiness', 'practice kindness' and 'live mindfully'.

What are your Tees made from?

Our tees are made from 100% organic cotton or 70% bamboo/30% organic cotton mix. They are also dyed with low impact dyes and screen-printed with water-based inks.

What's the Global Releaf cause that Tees for Change is involved with?

We've partnered with Global Releaf to plant a tree for every shirt we sell through our website. For each tee we sell we donate $1 and Global Releaf uses our donation to plant tree across the United States and the globe.

Thanks Andreea! We look forward to seeing your Tees all over Boulder.

Tees for Change

If you know of other conscious businesses, community non-profits, projects, events and local community supporters around Boulder that would be interested in sharing their stories please send us an e-mail or share it yourself in our discussion areas.

Tags: Boulder, Colorado, tees for change, conscious business

Maps for our Community Journey

http://bouldercommunity.gaia.com — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:58:00 GMT

The Cultural Creatives, How 50 Million People are Changing the World is a guidebook to the transformation happening in our worlds today. The book is full of amazing stories of transformation, the shifts individuals are experienceing, they're between periods and processes of return. I especially resonated with Elizabet Sahtouris’s story. There are many more of these journeys of transformation in the book.

Here’s one of my favorite excerpts from the book.

Economic historian Karl Polanyi titled one of the best books on the emergence of the modern, urbanized, industrialized world The Great Transformation. It is a good name for our time as well. The evidence says that we are entering a period that will require transformation – fundamental structural changes in how we live and work, how we think about ourselves, and how we conduct our politics, economics, and technologies. If we can go through those changes as well, or well enough, humanity will be able to live on this planet without destroying the environment, and our children’s children will have a future worth living.

Achieving this end will mean not just traveling in the great transition period but negotiating our way through it….

If you haven’t read The Cultural Creatives I highly recommend this book. While I was reading it I felt a strong sense of community with the cultural creatives profiled and the ideas shared. I realized that many of us are waking up to a new integration of living and being in a more authentic and wiser culture. This is a book that kept me awake reading and wanting more.

The Cultural Creatives: How 50 Million People Are Changing the World

Have you read the book?

~ Mark

Tags: the culture creatives, paul ray, community, boulder, colorado