Prompt:

knowing the kind of work I do in the local community, please suggest a calendar of events for 2025 that incorporates the things I love - arts, agriculture, and civic engagement. Include events that I would host/present/sponsor, as well as those that I would volunteer for. Feel free to push the envelope and be creative.

Result:

Here’s a proposed 2025 Calendar of Events that blends your passions for arts, agriculture, and civic engagement. It incorporates hosting, presenting, sponsoring, and volunteering opportunities.

January

• New Year Vision Workshop (Host/Present)

  • A creative goal-setting and vision-boarding session for the community. Incorporate mindfulness, journaling exercises, and art.

  • Partner with local artists and civic leaders for discussions on collective aspirations.

• Winter Nature Walk & Meditation (Host)

  • Launch your seasonal nature walks on your urban forest property. Focus on mindfulness and winter-inspired art installations.

February

• Love Your City: Community Mural Day (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Work with local artists and residents to create a mural highlighting Augusta’s history in arts and agriculture.

• Black History Month Agri-Arts Expo (Host)

  • Celebrate Black farmers, artists, and innovators. Include music, storytelling, food demonstrations, and panel discussions.

March

• Spring Into Gardening Festival (Host)

  • Teach gardening basics at your teaching garden. Include workshops for families and school groups.

• Community Jazz Night (Volunteer)

  • Support a live music night at a local venue. Encourage youth musicians to participate.

April

• Earth Month Agri-Tourism Day (Host/Present)

  • Invite visitors to explore the petting zoo, teaching garden, and local farms. Promote sustainable farming practices.

• First Fridays with The Cool Kidz (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Collaborate with downtown Augusta to make this a recurring event for youth and families.

May

• Arts in the Community Garden Festival (Host)

  • Transform the traditional Art in the Park into a vibrant showcase of art, gardening, and music in community gardens.

• Mindful Kids Workshop (Host)

  • A creative mindfulness event tailored to children ages 5-10. Use exercises from Guided Adventures.

June

• Summer Solstice Nature Walk & Picnic (Host)

  • Celebrate the solstice with an evening nature walk, live music, and local farm-to-table fare.

• Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp (Host)

  • A 2-day workshop for mid-life career changers looking to turn their passions into businesses.

July

• Farm-to-Fork Chef Challenge (Sponsor)

  • Partner with local chefs and farmers for a friendly cooking competition. Highlight Augusta’s food scene.

• Civic Engagement Through Art: Town Hall (Present/Volunteer)

  • Facilitate a town hall where artists and community leaders discuss civic engagement and cultural expression.

August

• National Farmers Market Week (Host)

  • Organize themed activities, spotlighting diverse farmers and products daily. Include recipe demos and seed bomb workshops.

September

• Arts in the Heart of Augusta (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Curate the Jazz/Blues stage and help with the festival’s 10th-anniversary promotions.

• Grandma Carrot Book Launch & Storytime (Host)

  • Debut your children’s book series with a live reading and themed activities for kids.

October

• Harvest Festival & Agri-Tourism Day (Host)

  • Highlight local farms, fall produce, and agritourism. Include family-friendly games, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch.

• Volunteer Day for Urban Farms (Volunteer)

  • Lead a community-wide effort to support local urban farms through planting and maintenance.

November

• Holiday Market at Canterbury Farms (Sponsor)

  • Showcase STOP Mobile Market and Honey Harvest Crunch granola. Partner with other local vendors.

• Gratitude Journaling & Art Workshop (Host)

  • Kick off the holiday season with a reflective journaling session, tying into your devotional journal.

December

• Holiday Caroling with Community Choirs (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Spread holiday cheer with local choirs in public spaces, schools, and eldercare facilities.

• Art & Wellness Retreat (Host)

  • A half-day retreat combining gentle exercises, art therapy, and guided mindfulness for a peaceful year-end.

The Role of Community Arts in Trauma Recovery

[source: Psychology Today]

The United States has experienced numerous tragedies in the past year, from the devastating wildfires in Maui to mass shootings in schools and places of worship. Such events are associated with psychiatric distress and psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These traumatic experiences can affect our brain function and amplify our stress responses. With such profound mental health impacts, how can communities move forward after catastrophic events?

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-art-effect/202401/the-role-of-community-arts-in-trauma-recovery

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

How Art Therapy Can Benefit Cancer Patients

[source: Henry Ford Health]

When dealing with the complex emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis, don’t underestimate the healing power of art. It can be a constructive way to express yourself, channel your frustration and anger, and calm your mind. There’s even a particular type of counseling dedicated to it, simply called art therapy.

“By using different art processes—drawing, painting and ceramics, for example—you can better understand and dive more deeply into your thoughts and feelings,” says Mallory Montgomery, ATR-BC, a board-certified art therapist with Henry Ford Health. “While we do talk in art therapy, sometimes words are limiting, so this is another way to express yourself. We use colors, lines and symbols to express internal states.”

https://www.henryford.com/blog/2020/11/how-art-therapy-can-benefit-cancer-patients

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

As a small farm store owner, I love exploring new ways to use the produce I grow, and loofah is no exception! While many people are familiar with loofah as a sponge, when harvested young, it’s a versatile vegetable with a delicate, zucchini-like flavor. Not only can you cook the young loofah, but the leaves are also edible and packed with nutrients! Below, I’m sharing a few of my favorite ways to prepare both the young loofah and its leaves.

Cooking Young Loofah

Young loofah has a tender texture, making it a great addition to stir-fries, sautés, and soups. Here are two delicious and simple ways to enjoy it:

1. Sautéed Loofah with Garlic and Herbs

This quick and easy sauté is perfect for highlighting the natural flavors of young loofah, making it a great side dish or light meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 young loofahs, peeled and sliced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).

3. Add the sliced loofah and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before serving.

5. Serve as a side or pair with rice for a light and refreshing meal.

2. Loofah Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce and Ginger

For a more savory dish, this stir-fry adds a touch of ginger and soy sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

• 2 young loofahs, peeled and cut into thin strips

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 small piece of ginger, thinly sliced or grated

• 1 chili pepper (optional, for heat)

• A handful of sliced scallions

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.

2. Add ginger (and chili pepper if using) and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.

3. Toss in the loofah strips and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until softened.

4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat the loofah.

5. Top with sliced scallions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Cooking Loofah Leaves

Don’t toss those loofah leaves! They’re a great source of nutrients and can be prepared much like other leafy greens. Here are two simple ways to cook loofah leaves:

1. Stir-Fried Loofah Leaves with Garlic

This stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to prepare loofah leaves. The garlic adds flavor, while the leaves retain a bit of their natural earthiness.

Ingredients:

• A bunch of loofah leaves, washed and stems removed

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A splash of soy sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.

3. Toss in the loofah leaves and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they wilt down, similar to spinach.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

5. Serve as a side dish or mix into rice or noodles.

2. Loofah Leaf Soup

For a light and refreshing soup, loofah leaves pair well with a simple broth. This dish is perfect for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients:

• A bunch of loofah leaves, roughly chopped

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 tomato, diced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A dash of fish sauce (optional)

• Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, heat a little oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

2. Add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes until it breaks down.

3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.

4. Add the loofah leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce (if using).

6. Garnish with green onions or cilantro and serve hot.

Loofah is an often overlooked but delicious and versatile vegetable. Whether you're looking for a new stir-fry ingredient or something fresh to add to soups, both the young loofah and its leaves offer a unique way to explore farm-fresh produce. Try these recipes next time you harvest loofah, and discover how this humble plant can transform your kitchen!

My husband is the environmental science guy in our family. But a friend recently started working for National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and I’m leearning how the federal government approaches BIPOC landowners. Interesting indeed. So, of course, I did a shallow dive and stuck a pin in this to come back to it later. -kg

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The environmental conservation industry involves numerous stakeholders and gatekeepers, each playing a significant role in shaping policies, allocating resources, and enforcing regulations. Here's a breakdown:

Gatekeepers in the Environmental Conservation Industry

1. Federal Agencies

   • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture): Oversees programs related to agriculture, forestry, and natural resources, including conservation efforts such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

   • U.S. Forest Service: A division of the USDA, it manages national forests and grasslands, implementing policies for sustainable forest management and conservation.

   • EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): Regulates activities that impact the environment, such as pollution control, and enforces environmental laws.

2. State and Local Agencies

   • State departments of natural resources or environmental protection often have a significant say in land and resource conservation within their jurisdictions.

   • Conservation districts or boards at the county level help implement federal and state programs locally.

3. Private Organizations

   • Land Trusts and Conservation Nonprofits: Groups like The Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club, and local land trusts can influence conservation priorities and funding.

   • Foundations: Entities providing grants for conservation projects often act as gatekeepers by determining which initiatives receive financial support.

4. Academic and Research Institutions

   • Universities and think tanks provide data and recommendations that shape conservation policies and best practices.

5. Industry Stakeholders

   • Agricultural and Forestry Industries: Companies and trade associations may lobby to shape conservation policies that align with their business interests.

   • Developers and Landowners: Often resist conservation measures that could restrict land use or development potential.

Role of Lobbyists

• Influence Policy: Lobbyists, often representing industries, NGOs, or advocacy groups, work to shape conservation policy by lobbying Congress, federal agencies, and state governments.

• Funding Allocation: They can influence where conservation dollars go, such as funding for specific programs or grants.

• Regulatory Impact: Lobbyists may push for looser regulations or more stringent conservation rules, depending on their interests.

Impact on BIPOC Landowners

BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) landowners face systemic barriers in the environmental conservation sector:

1. Access to Resources

   • Historical exclusion from USDA programs, land grants, and conservation funding has left many BIPOC landowners without the same level of financial and technical support as white landowners.

   • Discriminatory practices, such as redlining and loan denial, have reduced land ownership and stewardship opportunities.

2. Generational Land Loss

   • Black and Indigenous communities, in particular, have faced systemic land dispossession due to legal loopholes (e.g., heirs' property laws) and predatory practices.

   • Limited access to legal assistance has made it difficult for these groups to retain their land.

3. Policy and Program Barriers

   • BIPOC landowners often face challenges navigating federal programs like those offered by the NRCS or FSA, which may have requirements that unintentionally disadvantage smaller or nontraditional farmers.

4. Environmental Justice Concerns

   • Many BIPOC communities are disproportionately impacted by environmental degradation, such as pollution or deforestation, with fewer resources to advocate for conservation or mitigation efforts.

5. Lack of Representation

   • BIPOC landowners and communities are underrepresented in decision-making bodies, which affects the prioritization of issues relevant to them.

Ways to Address These Challenges

• Equity in Funding: Increasing access to USDA and conservation grants for BIPOC landowners.

• Technical Assistance: Providing culturally relevant training and support to help navigate conservation programs.

• Legal Reforms: Addressing heirs' property laws and other legal structures that disadvantage BIPOC landowners.

• Community Advocacy: Amplifying the voices of BIPOC landowners in policy discussions through organizations like the Federation of Southern Cooperatives or Land Loss Prevention Project.

Understanding and dismantling these barriers is essential for equitable environmental conservation that includes and benefits all communities.

Creating art during cancer treatment allows patients to express challenging emotions

[source: UCLA Health]

Making art can be a fun and satisfying endeavor. But for people with cancer, it can also be a therapeutic tool of empowerment for getting through the rigors of medical treatment.

Board certified art therapist Paige Asawa, PhD, MFT(Link opens in new window), believes that expressing oneself is an important part of the path to recovery. The weekly Healing Through Art psychotherapy group, which she facilitates through the Simms Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology(Link opens in new window), is intended to provide that empowerment – to help participants maintain some control over their feelings and mental state during and after treatment.

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/creating-art-during-cancer-treatment-allows-patients-express

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

As the warmth of summer envelops small to midsize cities, the season brings with it a plethora of events that beckon professionals to actively participate in civic activities. In this blog post, we'll highlight exciting summer events and civic activities that not only bring communities together but also foster a strong sense of civic engagement.

Summer Festivals and Community Gatherings:

Feature a variety of summer events, from street fairs and music festivals to outdoor markets and cultural celebrations. These gatherings provide professionals with opportunities to connect with neighbors, support local businesses, and revel in the shared spirit of summer festivities.

Civic Engagement Opportunities:

Explore civic activities intertwined with summer events, such as volunteering for community clean-ups, participating in charity runs, or joining local advocacy groups. Showcase how these activities not only contribute to the well-being of the community but also provide professionals with a chance to actively engage in civic life.

Building Social Networks:

Emphasize the social aspect of summer events and civic activities. Professionals can use these gatherings as networking opportunities, connecting with like-minded individuals, local leaders, and community organizers. Encourage attendees to exchange ideas, collaborate on initiatives, and collectively contribute to the growth of their city.

Summer events and civic activities are catalysts for building a sense of community and civic pride. By actively participating in these activities, professionals in small to midsize cities can strengthen the social fabric of their communities, fostering a spirit of togetherness and contributing to the overall growth of their cities.

The Healing Power of Creativity: How Pairing Cancer Patients with Artists Enhances Quality of Life

Cancer is a formidable challenge, not just physically, but emotionally and psychologically as well. While traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation are critical, the emotional and mental toll of a cancer diagnosis often goes unnoticed. For many patients, the journey is filled with uncertainty, fear, and isolation. But a growing movement is demonstrating how pairing cancer patients with creative artists can have a profound impact on their overall well-being, offering a path to healing through self-expression and artistic collaboration.

The Role of Art in Healing

Research into art therapy has shown that creative activities can have significant therapeutic benefits for individuals coping with illness, particularly cancer. Art allows patients to explore their emotions, process their diagnosis, and express their feelings in a safe and non-verbal way. For many, the act of creating becomes an escape—a chance to disconnect from the harsh realities of treatment and immerse themselves in the present moment.

Whether through painting, writing, music, or dance, artistic expression fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. It allows patients to tap into their inner strength, providing an outlet for their struggles, fears, and hopes. This can be incredibly empowering, helping individuals reclaim a sense of control in their lives when so much feels uncertain.

The Power of Connection

Beyond the personal benefits of creativity, pairing cancer patients with artists fosters a sense of connection and community. Cancer can often be an isolating experience, as patients retreat into themselves or feel misunderstood by those around them. Collaborating with an artist provides the opportunity to connect with someone who understands the therapeutic power of creativity.

Artists bring a unique perspective to the table. With their knowledge of the creative process, they can guide patients through the healing process, helping them to explore new ways of self-expression. This collaboration often leads to a deeper bond, as patients feel seen, heard, and valued. The emotional support that comes from these relationships can be just as important as the art itself, offering comfort during one of the most difficult times in a person’s life.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

One of the greatest benefits of pairing cancer patients with artists is the reduction of stress and anxiety. The creative process provides an opportunity for mindfulness, a state of being fully present in the moment. When patients focus on their art, they are often able to temporarily push aside their worries and fears, which can help reduce anxiety levels.

Studies have shown that creative activities can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increase the production of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. This can lead to a sense of calm, relaxation, and emotional resilience, all of which are vital when facing the physical and emotional challenges of cancer.

Building Hope Through Artistic Expression

Art also plays a powerful role in fostering hope. The process of creating something from nothing, whether it’s a beautiful painting or a heartfelt song, serves as a reminder that there is always potential for growth, beauty, and transformation—even in the face of illness. For cancer patients, art becomes a symbol of possibility and renewal, helping them to see beyond their diagnosis and focus on their inner strength.

Artistic expression can also help patients process their grief, anger, or fear in a productive way. It provides a safe space for exploring these difficult emotions without judgment or shame. This, in turn, helps patients develop a healthier mindset, which is key to navigating their cancer journey with greater emotional resilience.

Strengthening Mental Health and Self-Esteem

In addition to improving emotional health, engaging in creative activities has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental health. Art can help improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills, which can be affected by the stress and fatigue of cancer treatment. Furthermore, the confidence gained from completing a creative project, whether it’s a painting or a piece of writing, can enhance a patient’s self-esteem, helping them feel empowered and more connected to their sense of identity.

Encouraging a Holistic Approach to Care

Pairing cancer patients with artists represents a holistic approach to care—one that acknowledges the importance of both the body and the mind in healing. When combined with conventional medical treatments, creativity becomes a tool for nurturing the emotional and spiritual well-being of patients. This holistic approach helps to create a comprehensive care plan that addresses the whole person, not just the disease.

A Lasting Legacy of Healing and Connection

The benefits of pairing cancer patients with artists extend far beyond the individual. Many patients find that their creative work becomes a lasting legacy, something they can pass down to their loved ones or share with the community. Whether it’s a series of paintings, a collection of poems, or a handcrafted item, these creative pieces serve as a testament to their strength and resilience.

In addition, the collaboration between artists and cancer patients often inspires others to get involved in the healing process, whether by donating their time or talents or simply supporting the cause. This creates a ripple effect of positive change, fostering a community where creativity, compassion, and healing are at the forefront.

Conclusion

Cancer is undoubtedly one of the toughest battles many will ever face, but the power of art to heal, connect, and inspire is undeniable. By pairing cancer patients with artists, we open up new pathways to emotional well-being, resilience, and hope. In the process, we remind patients that they are not alone and that creativity has the power to transform even the darkest moments into something beautiful.

If you or someone you know is facing cancer, consider exploring the healing power of creativity. Whether through art therapy or a simple creative project, embracing the arts can make a world of difference in navigating the journey toward recovery and hope.

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In the heart of small to midsize cities, arts and culture festivals stand as vibrant celebrations of creativity, diversity, and community spirit. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of local arts and culture festivals, shedding light on their role in community engagement and fostering a sense of belonging among professionals.

Celebrating Local Talent:

Highlight the diverse talents showcased at local arts and culture festivals. From visual arts and music to dance and literature, these events serve as platforms for local artists to share their creativity with the community. Illustrate how attending these festivals not only supports local talent but also enriches the cultural fabric of the city.

Community Connection and Engagement:

Explore the communal atmosphere fostered by arts and culture festivals. Discuss how these events bring residents together, creating a sense of unity and shared experiences. Encourage professionals to attend, participate, and actively engage with the local arts scene, building connections and a deeper appreciation for the community.

Fostering Civic Pride:

Emphasize the role of arts and culture festivals in instilling civic pride. These events often reflect the unique identity and heritage of the city, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents. Professionals attending these festivals become active contributors to the cultural vibrancy that defines their city.

Arts and culture festivals are not merely events; they are celebrations of community, creativity, and shared identity. By actively participating in these festivals, professionals in small to midsize cities can contribute to the flourishing arts scene and strengthen the bonds that make their communities unique.

The beauty of a city lies not just in its infrastructure but also in the artistic expressions of its residents. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of neighborhood beautification and civic art projects on small to midsize cities, showcasing how community-driven initiatives enhance aesthetics and foster a sense of pride among residents.

The Power of Civic Art:

Highlight the transformative impact of civic art projects on the visual appeal of neighborhoods. Explore public murals, sculptures, and installations that tell the stories of the community, creating a unique identity for small cities. Emphasize the role of art in fostering a sense of belonging and pride among residents.

Community Engagement and Collaboration:

Showcase examples of successful community-driven art projects that involve residents in the creative process. Whether it's a mural painted by local volunteers or a sculpture created through a collaborative effort, emphasize the power of art in bringing people together and creating a shared sense of ownership over public spaces.

Aesthetics, Well-Being, and Economic Growth:

Discuss the broader impact of neighborhood beautification on the well-being of residents and the local economy. Beautified neighborhoods attract visitors, support local businesses, and contribute to a positive image of the city. Illustrate how aesthetics and creativity play a crucial role in attracting talent and fostering economic growth.

Neighborhood beautification and civic art projects are not just about aesthetics; they are about community pride and shared experiences. By actively participating in or supporting these initiatives, professionals in small to midsize cities can contribute to the visual vibrancy and communal spirit of their neighborhoods.