News

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Better Farm News, March 2010 - Register Now for Summer 2010 Classes

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• Registration for Summer 2010 classes and workshops is now available at

our website! Check back daily for updates.

• Upcoming Events: Come see the Better Crew as we make the rounds in your

community.

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Hello, Friends of Better Farm!

We are pleased to announce that registration for our Summer 2010 workshop

schedule is now open! After months of planning, we have an exciting (and

diverse!) line-up of classes for you to choose from....and more will be

added daily, so keep checking back in! Early Bird Specials available.

Below is a sneak peek at what we're offering at the Farm:

JUNE 8-12: "Cob Oven Construction" with Mark Mazziotti of Red Earth Farms

Community Land Trust

Cob is an ancient building method utilizing mud, sand, water, and straw.

Participants will together construct a cob bread oven and adjacent cob

bench, roof structure framed with round poles, and a living roof. Students

will leave with hands-on cob building skills, detailed knowledge of cob

bread ovens, and a general knowledge of natural building principles.

Building with mud has a way of transforming people—come get dirty with us!

JUNE 18-20: "Step Away from the Grid" with Adam Katzman, accredited

rainwater catchment & sustainability expert

What if, one appliance at a time, we could transition ourselves away from

dependence on grid-supplied, non-renewable utility service? In this class we

will discuss and experiment with various low-tech, do-it-yourself

sustainability projects designed to empower people to reshape and redesign

the environments they live in. From cell phones to our sinks, we can learn

to create our own affordable, sustainable energies and resources. The course

will culminate with the construction of a self-supporting outdoor shower

that will incorporate concepts of alternative energy, permaculture concepts,

water, and wastewater designs. Emphasis will be placed on building with

salvaged/low-cost materials and hands-on experience.

JUNE 25-27: "Intro to Permaculture for the Rural and Urban

Homesteader" with Steven Gabriel of the Fingerlakes Permaculture Institute

Permaculture is a style of sustainable design which mimics natural

ecologocal relationships. Successful permaculture results in mimimal waste,

energy, and labor. In this course students will become versed in the basics

of permaculture principles, ecology, design, gardening, compost, water

catchment, and agriculture systems on a wide variety of scales.

JULY 9-11: "Within the Mystery - A Weekend of Yoga and Meditation" with

Danielle Marie Gutshall, certified yoga instructor

This weekend workshop combines a spectrum of events to bring you deeper

within your Self. Those in attendance will practice a blend of yoga (Kripalu

meets Kundalini), breathwork, guided relaxation, and a taste of shamanic

journeying to bring all participants in tune with their mysteries. There

will be space for art making, nature walks, and to journal. Come prepared to

dive in, relax, and mystify as you travel through other realms while

grounding deep into your physical body. No previous experience is required;

only an open mind and heart.

PLUS: Option to additionally sign up for

"Intro to Tarot Card Reading" with Sonia Ortiz, scheduled for the same weekend.

JULY 10: "Intro to Tarot Card Reading" with Sonia Ortiz, of Soul Garden TV

This afternoon workshop will teach the history, ethics, and how-to's of

reading the tarot deck while helping students hone their psychic

abilities. All students taking this course are required to have their own Tarot deck (preferably Rider-Waite's version).

JULY 16-18: "Intro to Erotic Photography" with Ellen Stagg of Stagg Street

This workshop will provide a two-day look at what makes erotic photography

so sexy. It will start with a discussion of erotic photography (art vs.

pornography, feminism, commercialization of sex, etc.). All students will

have the opportunity to photograph two models from Ellen’s site

StaggStreet.com, under Ellen’s directions regarding ambient light, flash,

and textures. Photo editing instruction will be provided; and each student

at the end of the workshop will get a personalized critique

This course requires each student to have a digital SLR camera with flash and a laptop

computer, with mouse, for retouching. Wacom tablets are strongly suggested

but not mandatory.

JULY 21-23: "Storytelling 101" with Deena R. Weinstein, nationally

affiliated storyteller

Learn the art of storytelling in this three-day workshop that will culminate

in a final performance by all participants. Deena will entertain and

demonstrate storytelling; share tips and techniques of storytelling;

encourage the use of stories in healing of self, others and Mother-Earth;

and facilitate a sharing of the stories you create through different mediums

while on retreat.

PLUS: Option to stay an extra day and sign up for "The Art of Shrine-Building" with Corinne Rochelle.

JULY 24: "The Art of Shrine-Building" with Corinne Rochelle, Better Farm

staffer and shrine-building enthusiast

If the word "shrine" invokes images of saints, religion, or childhood

dioramas, think again! This afternoon course will cover the history of

shrine-building, examples of contemporary shrines, and offer each student

the opportunity to create his or her own “empowerment shrine.” Students are

encouraged to bring photos and scraps from home to elaborate on the theme

and customize a basic shrine-building kit Better Farm will provide to

students at no additional cost. You don’t need to be an artist—all you need

is a story to tell and a creative spirit!

JULY 26-30: "Intro to Horseback Riding" with Mary Shannon, certified riding

instructor at Spencer Valley Farm

This five-day introductory workshop will teach you the basics of horseback

riding. Lessons, taught at Spencer Valley Farm in Redwood, will ensure

each rider at the end of the week has the ability to tack, mount, walk,

trot, stop, turn, and dismount. When you complete your beginner package,

you should be able to handle a horse independently.

Instructor: Mary Shannon, a CHA-certified riding instructor.

AUG. 8: "Embroidery Workshop and Stitching Bee" with Corinne Rochelle,

Better Farm staffer and embroidery enthusiast

Students will learn 5-6 basic stitches and (re)discover how embroidery is

“not just for grandmas.” Beginners and seasoned embroiderers are welcome to

come to this afternoon stitching bee! Embroidery kits will be provided.

AUG. 14: "Rustic Furniture Building" with Mark Sears of Creations in Wood

First -time woodworkers will learn the basics of rustic creation with the

making of a four-legged stool which can double as a low table if desired.

Materials will be gathered from the woods and utilized from the lumbermill

on the property. The project will be completed by the end of the day.

Traditional hand tools are available, but power tools will be utilized in

the process. Lunch will be provided by Better Farm.

This course will be held at the instructor's business on English Settlement

Road in Redwood (further information will be sent to registered students).

Option to stay overnight on-site at Better Farm: All students staying at

Better Farm will be provided with linens, meals, and transportation to and

from Creations in Wood; as well as involvement in any planned evening

activities. Students should dress accordingly for outdoor activity with good

walking shoes, work gloves, and hand-pruning clippers.

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Upcoming Events!

Stop by the Better Farm info table at the following events:

Redwood Friends and Family Day

"Health and Wellness"

Saturday, March 6th, 2-5pm

Redwood Volunteer Fire Dept

43874 Stine Road

Redwood, NY 13679

(315) 482-3962

2010 Upstate New York Permaculture Gathering

"Care of People, Care of Planet, Return of Surplus to Both"

Saturday, March 13th, 10am-5pm

The Gear Factory

200 South Geddes St

Syracuse, NY 13204

 

PLUS: Better Farm presents - Redwood Earth Day Cleanup!

Better Farm will be hosting a town-wide clean-up, sponsored by Eco Safe

Plastics. Potluck afterparty to be held at Better Farm's main house. Stay

tuned for more info!

Saturday, April 24th

Clean-up times/locations TBA

Potluck After Party

Better Farm

31060 Cottage Hill Road

Redwood, NY 13679 US

Time TBA

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Wanna get involved?

Just drop us a line at info@betterfarm.org.

We can always use donations in the form of supplies, materials, connections,

money...or even just some positive thoughts.

We are constantly adding to our scheduling for Summer/Fall 2010 programming,

but would love additional ideas. If you have a specialty (or know someone

who does), let us know! Email your suggestions and proposals to

Corinne.Rochelle@betterfarm.org.

Like what you’ve heard?

Please keep in touch with us by visiting http://www.betterfarm.org and http://blog.betterfarm.org, and be sure to follow us on Facebook. You can also buy Better Farm merchandise at our Cafe Press and Zazzle shop.

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Better Farm News, February 2010 - Residency and Internship opportunities now open!

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• Summer 2010 betterArt artist residencies and sustainability internship applications now being accepted! Deadline is March 1st with decisions on internships being made by April 1st and residencies by April 15th.

• Invitation details: Better Farm’s 40th reunion over Memorial Day weekend.

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Hello, Better Farm supporters!

First, an important announcement that applications for our Summer 2010 betterArt Artist Residencies and Sustainability Internships are now being accepted.

Applications for both programs must be postmarked or e-mailed no later than MARCH 1, 2010. Internships will be announced by APRIL 1st and Residencies by April 15TH. Follow the specific links below for more info on how to apply.

betterArt Artist Residencies:

betterArt seeks to provide an opportunity for creative exploration and growth to artists, writers, and musicians within the context of Better Farm's dynamic environment.

betterArt’s summer residency program is open from June 1 to Sept. 1, and can comfortably accommodate up to seven people at a time. Residencies are for one week, two weeks, or month-long periods. betterArt maintains facilities on Better Farm’s property (from teepees to treehouses to shared cabin-style housing). Basic facilities will be provided; but betterArt residents are expected to provide the majority of materials and equipment they would need for the production of their work.

Family-style dinners, all linens and towels, wireless Internet, on-site parking, movie nights, and field trips are all included in a low stipend we require of all residents. Residents are responsible for all other meals, travel, and other expenses. The environment is simple and communal. Residents are expected to do their share in maintaining the condition of Better Farm as well as its peaceful environment.

The standards for admission are talent, desire to live and work at Better Farm, and a willingness to have a go at the Better Theory: a belief that each moment presents us with the opportunity for exponential personal growth.

Apply to betterArt’s artist residency program HERE.

Sustainability Internship Program:

Better Farm’s summer internship program runs from June 1 through Sept. 1, with one- to three-month internships available. Internships are available to students interested in a myriad of sustainability issues, with each internship tailored to suit a specific individual’s needs and personal goals.

Interns have the option to visit us during regular business hours Monday through Friday (excepting those interested in participating at farmers markets, held Saturday mornings), or live on-site in shared rooms for a nominal fee of $250/month. Included with that fee are all linens and towels, laundry access, wireless Internet, on-site parking, and a familial environment complete with nightly sit-down dinners, field trips, and movie nights. Other personal costs such as additional meals and expenses are the responsibility of the intern.

The environment is simple and communal. Interns are expected to do their share in maintaining the condition of Better Farm as well as its peaceful environment. Additionally, all those accepted for internships at Better Farm are expected to work seriously—and to conduct themselves in a manner that aids fellow residents in their endeavors.

Many sustainability specialists will be visiting and living on Better Farm throughout the summer to offer mentoring and guidance to students interested in coming here to work and gain valuable experience.

Apply to Better Farm’s sustainability program HERE.

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SAVE THE DATE!

You’re invited to Better Farm’s 40th Anniversary on Sunday, May 30th, 2010, 3:00pm

Better Farm

31060 Cottage Hill Road

Redwood, NY 13679 US

Forty years ago a group of people led by Steve Caldwell descended on a little farmhouse in upstate New York and turned it into a a mecca for the creative, curious, and communal-minded. Steve began a legacy that changed each of us for the better; and will continue to work its magic well into the future.

Come out Memorial Day Weekend to remember Better Farm's beginnings, commune once again with the people who helped make this house a home, and meet the latest shade of Better Farmers.

Weekend-long festivities will culminate at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 30, with a big outdoor barbecue and potluck, live entertainment, and slide show. Friends and family welcome!

Please let us know you’re coming by emailing Nicole.Caldwell@betterfarm.org or by RSVPing with the invite online.

Those interested in off-site accommodations are encouraged to visit this link, which lists area motels and hotels.

We are currently looking for any video footage or photographs for the slideshow - any files you're willing to share can be sent to info@betterfarm.org. Also contact us at info@betterfarm.org with any questions, suggestions, or to make a donation.

Hope to see you there!

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Wanna get involved?

Just drop us a line at info@betterfarm.org.

We can always use donations in the form of supplies, materials, connections, money...or even just some positive thoughts.

We are putting the finishing touches on our scheduling for Spring/Summer 2010 programming, but would love additional ideas. If you have a specialty (or know someone who does), let us know! Email your suggestions and proposals to Corinne.Rochelle@betterfarm.org.

Like what you’ve heard?

Please keep in touch with us by visiting http://www.betterfarm.org and http://blog.betterfarm.org, and be sure to follow us on Facebook. You can also buy Better Farm merchandise at our Cafe Press and Zazzle shop.

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Better Farm Newsletter: Fall 2009

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Hello, Better Farm supporters! Welcome to our very first newsletter – Fall 2009. We hope to update this section on a more regular basis from now on, but a lot has happened in the past several months…so, let the recap begin!

The first Better Farm fundraiser was held May 16 in New Jersey, and brought in sufficient money for eco-friendly paint, Spackle, and supplies for an initial house clean up. That work, started over the past Memorial Day Weekend by a dozen volunteers, gave Better Farm’s renovations a jumpstart that resulted in getting several spaces room-ready for our fledgling live/work-share program. Swapping in energy-efficient bulbs, doing away with air conditioners, unplugging appliances, and insulating walls worked: Since May, Better Farm’s energy use has reached its lowest levels on record.

A second fundraiser (loosely titled "Loud Music/Silent Auction") is being scheduled in Brooklyn for January. Don't be surprised if some bands/artists you know and love get involved in helping us raise more money to finish bettering the Farm.

As momentum builds, so has our reach: We applied for The Green Effect, $20,000 prize given by Sun Chips and National Geographic to an organization or idea that would better the community in a green way. We didn’t win, but we got a lot of exposure. We also recently applied Echoing Green's two-year fellowship program­fingers crossed!

But local connections still remain our firmest goal, with our growing participation in the weekly Redwood farmers' market, securing a slot last July in the Redwood Field Days Parade, and plans to bring our educational opportunities and volunteer efforts to residents living in and around Jefferson County.

And mark your calendars: The 40th anniversary of Better Farm's inception is happening Memorial Day Weekend 2010! Stay tuned to http://blog.betterfarm.org for more information.

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Completed Renovations

As of this newsletter, the following projects have been completed:

Kitchen 

Upstairs Hallway 

Lilac Room 

Owl Room 

(For the following, photos coming to the blog soon!)

Downstairs Hallway

Upstairs Closet Spaces

Loft

Steve’s Room

Library

Downstairs bathroom

Short-term Goals

Scheduling of Spring/Summer 2010 classes in Permaculture/sustainable living, alternative building, solar panel installation, writing, furniture restoration, yoga, acupuncture, nutrition, naturing, storytelling and gardening; completed renovations on downstairs bathroom, upstairs rooms, side entranceway, upstairs kitchen/common area; increased local, national and global outreach.

Future Goals/Wishlist

To be completely off the grid and sustainable, Install a Green Screen and/or greenhouse, solar-powered chicken coop, compost toilets, solar rainwater shower, a plethora of on-site green structures for education and additional housing, CSA, recording studio in barn, the creation of Better Farm's bowling team and beer brewery.

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Wanna get involved?

Just drop us a line at info@betterfarm.org.

We can always use donations in the form of supplies, materials, connections, money...or even just some positive thoughts. The live/work-share program is a great way to donate your time with a front-row seat to the action. And, we are also always open to suggested classes and programs. If you've got a specialty (or know someone who does), let us know! We are still in the process of scheduling Spring/Summer 2010 programming, and would love additional ideas.

Like what you’ve heard?

Please keep in touch with us by continuing to visit www.betterfarm.org and blog.betterfarm.org. And be sure to follow us on Facebook.