Chef Jennie Cook will co-host a Sustainable Supper for culinary professionals in the greater Los Angeles area and has asked us to help her spread the word:
When: Monday, February 25, 2008 starting at 7:00pm
Where: Cook's Double Dutch, 9806 Washington Boulevard, Culver City 90232
Questions, reservations: Contact Jennie by phone at 310.815.8273.
The focus of this Sustainable Supper will be connecting with fellow professional chefs to discuss the challenges and successes of sustainable sourcing and implementation. Jennie will provide a delicious spread of sustainable food. Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite bottle of wine and join in the discussion!
The event will be co-hosted with Chefs Collaborative. Because of limited seating, please contact Jennie at the number above for additional information and to reserve your place.
With food and energy prices rising steadily and humanity straining Earth's resources and systems, landscaping with edibles is more important than ever for personal, community, and global sustainability.
In this six-part course suitable for both landscape professionals and homeowners, Ecological Landscape Designer Darren Butler will cover the basics of designing, planning, and installing edible landscapes.
Topics are expected to include introduction to sustainable landscaping; landscape design principles; aesthetics of edible-landscape design; practicalities of edible-landscape design; site analysis; soil, testing soil, and preparations for planting; planning; watering methods; installing drip watering systems; planting and seeding methods; suitable species for Southern California; annuals in the edible landscape; innovative approaches to maximizing food production in perennial plantings; sources for materials, seeds, and plants; managing weeds and pests; maintaining the edible landscape and its fertility; and permaculture approaches to managing edible landscapes. Some hands-on work preparing a landscape, seeding, and installing plants is expected. The course will not include information on aspects of running a landscape-design business.
When: Course dates: Six Sundays 9:30 AM to 12:45 PM with short breaks only, Mar 2, 9, 16, 30, Apr 6, 13 (arrival encouraged by 9:00 AM). No class on Mar 23 (Easter).
Where: In Pasadena near North Allen and the 210 freeway. Details provided with class confirmation.
Cost: $220 for early registration through Feb 22; $245 thereafter or on the day of. There will be an additional $50 fee for certification. Space permitting, attendance will be allowed to single classes for $50 per class.
To register or for more information: Call or email Darren Butler (818.271.0963) or allnet [at] pobox [dot] com.
Darren Butler is a consulting arborist, ecological designer, and landscape specialist. He has appeared on several episodes of "Weekend Gardening" for a large international television audience as an expert horticulturist and landscaper, on NPR radio, and in local newspapers. He has taught Sustainable Landscape Design and Diagnosing Plant Problems for the University of California Master Gardener Program in Los Angeles, and holds many landscape- and plant-related certifications and licenses. He currently serves on a statewide advisory committee for all University of California Master Gardener programs, and is a speaker at the upcoming 2008 University of California Master Gardener Conference. He has been gardening since childhood, and developing expertise in Southern California gardening since 1996.
Enrollment, payment, and refund policy: Half tuition must be sent to reserve enrollment, with the remaining half due by the first day of class. If full tuition is not paid by the third class, attendance is expected to stop until payment is completed. Full refunds less $50 will be available until seven days before the first session. No refunds thereafter except for cancellation by the instructor. If tentative details change after enrollment has been paid, full refund is available until three days before the first class if cancellation is based upon the change(s).
Payment is by check, cash, or money order and should be sent to Darren Butler, PO Box 920434, Sylmar CA 91392-0434. Contact Darren directly if you prefer to pay with a credit card via the internet.
Courses not guaranteed to carry. Some courses fill up quickly. To avoid disappointment, please do not delay.
A certificate in Edible Landscaping is available. Specific requirements for completion will include required reading, minimum attendance of four of the six sessions with makeup for missed sessions, a project, and additional fee of $50.
This course provides approximately 18 to 20 hours of continuing education. It is not affiliated with University of California or LA County Cooperative Extension.
Reading List (required for a certificate only) will be announced by mid-February.
Course difficulty: 3 to 4 out of 10. This course will be moderately challenging. Gardening experience, basic understanding of organic gardening methods, and basic knowledge of biology and ecology are recommended but not required. Attendees without organic gardening experience should expect difficulty.
Assistance is needed for video or audio recording of the sessions. Free tuition available in trade.
Slow Food on Film is an international festival of cinema and food promoted by Slow Food and Cineteca di Bologna. Its aim is the promotion of a new critical awareness of food culture through the screening of films, short films, documentaries, and TV series focusing on food-related issues in an original way, as well as on the agricultural and food industry's effect on society and the environment, and on gastronomic memory as a common heritage to be safeguarded.
Submissions are now being accepted--the deadline is March 15, 2008--in the following categories:
++ Shorts competition for international short films produced since 2006. Award for Best Short Film: Golden Snail and 5000 Euros.
++ Docs competition for international documentaries produced since 2006. Two prizes will be awarded: one for the best documentary and one for the best short documentary. Award for Best Documentary: Golden Snail and 5000 Euros. Award for Best Short Documentary: Golden Snail and 2000 Euros.
++ BFF - Best Food Feature: From a short list of five international feature films nominated by an academy of international professionals from the worlds of cinema and food the jury will select the best food feature film of the 2006-2007 season. Award for Best Feature Film: Golden Snail
++ Best TV Series: The Slow Food on Film festival will select and make an award to the television series (fiction or documentary) which, from the vast international offering, stands out for its aware, intelligent, and culturally appropriate representation of gastronomy. Award for Best TV series: Golden Snail.
The entry form and regulations are available in English; information on 2002, 2004, and 2006 winners is also available.
Thanks to Julia Carnahan for alerting us to an opportunity at the Los Angeles Music Center that may be of interest to Slow Food members and friends.
L.A. Storytellers is accepting submissions for its program, "What's Your Recipe?". As noted in the program description:
Food is often at the heart of a memorable occasion. It can reflect cultural and family traditions creating fond experiences and unforgettable stories. From a recipe passed down through generations, to a whipped-together meal that becomes the family favorite, or a special treat rarely indulged upon but always savored, there are stories behind each and every cherished delicacy. L.A. Storytellers invite you to indulge in food non-fiction and share your tasty tales.The program is intended for non-professional/recreational storytellers, and no prior experience is necessary. There is no submission fee, but participants must be at least 18 years old.
For more information, submission guidelines, and the submission form, visit the L.A. Storytellers page on the Music Center's website. Submissions are due February 4, 2008.
The California Food and Justice Coalition has alerted us to an opportunity to work with them as an Organizer. Details below:
The California Food and Justice Coalition is a statewide membership coalition of 150 state and community-based organizations that work together to create a socially just and sustainable food systems through advocacy, organizing and education. Â We promote the basic human right to healthy food while advancing social, agricultural, environmental and economic justice and collaborate with community-based efforts to create a sustainable food supply for the residents of California. CFJC is currently a project of the Community Food Security Coalition.Please contact the CFJC directly if you would like more information or wish to apply for this position.In its first few years CFJC published the Weaving the Food Web guidebook, developed a policy platform to address food system issues in California, carried out an advocacy campaign to promote farm to school programs that included sponsoring state legislation, hosted a statewide conference and a series of community workshops for food system activists and organizers, and built a strong network of food system activists to work together to promote a just and sustainable food system. In the fall of 2006 CFJC adopted a three year strategic plan that includes continued advocacy for state and federal policy that strengthens local food systems and ends food systems injustices with a focus on the Federal Farm Bill in 2007, and developing a mentorship and training program to support people of color and grassroots organizations in organizing local food projects in their communities. Â
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We are hiring for a 50% time organizer position that we hope to make full time within a few months.Responsibilities:
The organizer will work together with CFJC’s current organizer to coordinate and carry out the work of the coalition.  CFJC staff work closely with the CFSC executive director and the CFJC steering committee. The organizer will be responsible for:
++ Coordinating the CFJC steering committee
++ Coordinating CFJC outreach and organizing efforts
++ Managing communication with statewide members and partners
++ Working to implement CFJC strategic plan
++ Working with CFJC members and partners to organize events, conferences and trainings as outlined in the strategic plan
++ Coordinate advocacy campaigns and organizing efforts on public policy issues as outlined in the strategic plan
++ Coordinate new training and technical assistance program as outlined in strategic plan
++ Provide support for fundraising, grant writing and reporting activities
++ Supervise interns and contractors
++ Other responsibilities to be determinedRequirements:
++ At least three years program management or organizing experience
++ Experience planning participatory educational events
++ Experience coordinating policy campaigns or doing political organizing
++ Possess a combination of experiences in program development, outreach, community organizing, and public speaking
++ Excellent writing, organizing, communication, and inter-personal skills
++ Substantive knowledge of community food security, local food systems, urban agriculture, sustainable agriculture, family farm, or anti-hunger fields in California
++ Detail oriented and well organized
++ Able to complete multiple projects on deadline
++ Self motivated, hard working, and dependable
++ Demonstrated experience working in partnership with oppressed communities and diverse constituents
++ Able to work some weekends and evenings and to travel to conferences and workshops around the country as needed
++ Excellent computer skills, including Excel, Word, Filemaker Pro for Mac
++ Successful fundraising and grant writing experience
++ Fluent in Spanish a plusLocation:
Must be in California and it is preferred that the organizer work from the CFSC office in Los Angeles, but other locations may be considered.Compensation:
50% time position with the possibility of becoming full-time. Pay range is $38,000-$42,000 for full time position. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, vacation, sick-leave, major holidays, flexible spending account, and retirement plan. Salary and benefits will be pro-rated depending on total hours. ÂThe Community Food Security Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.
Deadline: Applications Reviewed on an ongoing basis. Â Position open until filled
Fax or mail cover letter, resume and references to:
California Food and Justice Coalition  (c/o CFSC)
PO Box 209
Venice, CA 90294
Fax: 310-822-1440
The Westwood Farmers' Market is looking for someone who would like to help the community by assisting in the management of the local Thursday farmers' market. The position is ideal for someone who wants to expand their knowledge of events, to contribute to the community and either has knowledge of, or wants to acquire knowledge of, promotional techniques, people management, project development, school tours, slow food dinners, and other useful skills.
The job consists of 9-10 hours each Thursday outdoors in a pleasant, green garden setting. And another few hours (not on market day) to handle other details. The market runs from 12 noon until 7 pm with 90 minutes before and after necessary.
Work with customers, farmers, and others with occassional work with county inspectors, members of the media, and influential members of the community. If you have volunteered in the community and are interested in contributing through a paid, nonprofit position, let us know. 12 to 15 hours for 150 dollars per week. An excellent, though demanding, part-time job.
For more information about the Westwood Farmers' Market, visit their site.
For more information about this opportunity, contact mark [at] westwoodfarmersmarket [dot] com.
Farm Bill Forum: Ventura
For Slow Food members and friends in the Ventura area, the CFJC has announced a Farm Bill forum in Ventura on Thursday, March 29, 2007 from 1:00-4:00pm.
The event will be held at the office of the Ventura Unified School District at 255 West Stanley Avenue, Ventura, CA 93001. Attendees are welcome to arrive early (by 12:30pm) and and enjoy a farm fresh salad bar lunch for $4.50. In addition to your RSVP for the Forum, please call 641-5000 ext 1301 to reserve lunch.
To reserve, please email Dulanie [at] sbcglobal [dot] net or call 310.822.5410.
This forum is for anyone who is committed to better food, farm and nutrition policy that protects our environment and farmlands, provides opportunities for small farmers and ensures access to healthy, affordable and locally grown food. Community food issues addressed through the farm bill include: access to farmers markets, preserving local farms, hunger and food stamps, nutrition education and obesity prevention, farm-to-school and farm-to-institution programs, environmental stewardship, conservation funding. This event will be cohosted by CFJC, Ventura AG Futures Alliance, Food for Thought Ojai, CA Women for Agriculture, VEP Healthy Schools Collaborative.
Also... Opportunities with the CFJC
Positions are available for both a part-time organizer (may become full time) and interns.
CFJC is currently hiring for a part-time organizer position that may grow into a full-time position with in the next six months. The organizer will work with the CFJC program director, CFJC steering committee, and the CFSC executive director to organize campaigns and programs that further the coalitions mission. The CJFC is looking for someone with a lot of energy and enthusiasm for food justice advocacy work who has combination of experiences in program development, outreach, community organizing, and public speaking. Fluency in Spanish a plus. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.
Location: The organizer will work from the CFSC office in Los Angeles.
Compensation: Half-time position with the possibility of becoming full-time. Pay range is $35,000-$42,000 for full time position. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, vacation, sick-leave, major holidays, flexible spending account, and retirement plan. Salary and benefits will be pro-rated depending on total hours.
Download a full job description at http://www.CAFoodJustice.org.
Deadline: March 23, 2007
Cover letter, resume and references can be submitted by mail, email or fax to: California Food and Justice Coalition (c/o CFSC), PO Box 209, Venice, CA 90294, Fax: 310.822.1440, info [at] CAFoodJustice [dot] org.
Internship Announcement
The California Food and Justice Coalition is seeking interns to assist with a variety of coalition support activities in the areas of advocacy & organizing, communications and general organizational support. Internships are unpaid. We are seeking at least one individual to be based in our Los Angeles office, additional interns can be located any where in the state of California. You can download a full description of the internship opportunities at: http://www.CAFoodJustice.org. Please send a one-page letter stating your interest and availability, along with a sample of your own writing to info@CAFoodJustice.org or fax to: 310.822.1400.
Our colleagues at the California Food and Justice Coalition have asked us to share the following opportunity with members and friends of Slow Food Los Angeles:
The California Food and Justice Coalition is a statewide membership coalition of 150 state and community-based organizations that work together to create a socially just and sustainable food system through advocacy, organizing and education. We promote the basic human right to healthy food while advancing social, agricultural, environmental and economic justice and collaborate with community-based efforts to create a sustainable food supply for the residents of California. CFJC is currently a project of the Community Food Security Coalition.In its first few years CFJC published the Weaving the Food Web guidebook, developed a policy platform to address food system issues in California, carried out an advocacy campaign to promote farm to school programs that included sponsoring state legislation, hosted a statewide conference and a series of community workshops for food system activists and organizers, and built a strong network of food system activists to work together to promote a just and sustainable food system. In the fall of 2006 CFJC adopted a three year strategic plan that includes continued advocacy for state and federal policy that strengthens local food systems and end food systems injustices with a focus on the Federal Farm Bill in 2007, and developing a mentorship and training program to support people of color and grassroots organizations in organizing local food projects in their communities.
We are currently hiring for a part-time organizer position that we hope will grow into a full time position within the next six months.
Responsibilities
The organizer will work with the CFJC program director to carry out the work of the coalition. They will work closely with the CFSC executive director and the CFJC steering committee. The organizer will be responsible for:
++ Coordinating the CFJC steering committee
++ Coordinating CFJC outreach and organizing efforts
++ Managing communication with statewide members and partners
++ Working with program director to implement CFJC strategic plan
++ Working program director and partners to organize events, conferences and trainings as outlined in the strategic plan
++ Work with program director to coordinate advocacy campaigns and organizing efforts on public policy issues as outlined in the strategic plan
++ Coordinate new training and technical assistance program as outlined in strategic plan
++ Provide support for fundraising, grant writing and reporting activities
Requirements ++ At least three years program management or organizer experience ++ Experience planning participatory educational events ++ Experience coordinating policy campaigns or doing political organizing ++ Possess a combination of experiences in program development, outreach, community organizing, and public speaking. Â Â ++ Excellent writing, organizing, communication, and inter-personal skills ++ Substantive knowledge of community food security, local food systems, urban agriculture, sustainable agriculture, family farm, or anti-hunger fields in California ++ Detail oriented and well organized ++ Able to complete multiple projects on deadline ++ Self motivated, hard working, and dependable ++ Able to work with diverse constituents ++ Able to work some weekends and evenings and to travel to conferences and workshops around the country as needed ++ Excellent computer skills, including Excel, Word, Filemaker Pro for Mac ++ Successful fundraising and grant writing experience ++ Fluent in Spanish a plusLocation: The organizer will work from the CFSC office in Los Angeles.
Compensation: Half-time position with the possibility of becoming full-time. Pay range is $35,000-$42,000 for full time position. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, vacation, sick-leave, major holidays, flexible spending account, and retirement plan. Salary and benefits will be pro-rated depending on total hours. Â
The Community Food Security Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.
Deadline for receipt of applications: March 23, 2007. Position open until filled.
Cover letter, resume and references can be submitted by mail, email or fax:
California Food and Justice Coalition (c/o CFSC)
PO Box 209
Venice, CA 90294
Fax: 310-822-1440
info@CAFoodJustice.org
Kathleen Hiraga, owner of Garden Organics Inc., has shared with us an opportunity within her company. Details below, and please contact Garden Organics as noted below if you require more information or wish to respond.
ORGANIC CULINARY GARDEN MANAGER—BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Garden Organics Inc. is seeking a Culinary Garden Design Manager to partner with company, handling day to day greenhouse operations, culinary garden design projects and to further develop culinary garden design client base.Position Description:
Candidates must possess at least 2 years of farming and/or organic gardening and greenhouse experience: germinating, transplanting and managing plant stock inventory, and organic farm or garden management experience, including double digging, site analysis, garden design and daily maintenance. Familiarity with John Jeavons and BIOINTENSIVE methods desirable including an understanding of food and food trends in the culinary world. Please have strong organizational, people and project management skills and a strong interest in further developing G.O.'s mission: designing edible gardens for home residences, restaurants and hotels.Projects include designing gardens and providing garden maintenance for Los Angeles-based chefs and restaurants, internship programs, gardening workshops, participation in local farmers markets, garden and food events and edible school garden consultation.
This is a hands-on position as well as managerial. Candidate must handle lifting and loading, as well as double digging on a regular basis. Driver's license mandatory. Position would begin early 2007. Greenhouse site is based in West Los Angeles.Please e-mail resume with brief cover letter to info [at] mygardenorganics [dot] com.
North Hollywood High School has a great small vineyard. The person who installed it is no longer interested, and the search is on for someone with an interest in wine grapes and making their own wine to take it over and benefit from the grapes.
NHHS students can help keep the vineyard watered, fertilized, and pruned with supervision by the new owner. The new owner would do all else. For optimal production, Steve Hofvendahl, the Fruit Tree Program Coordinator of TreePeople, suggests that the new owner may want to also do some spraying. North Hollywood High School only asks that the person would talk to the students twice a year or so about grapes, winemaking, California history with grapes and wine, etc.
Interested? For more information, please contact Steve Hofvendahl by phone at 818.623.4865 or by email to shofvendahl [at] treepeople [dot] org.
The California Food and Justice Coalition has alerted us to the availability of two internships. Details below and in the downloadable files:
1. Organizing and Outreach Intern (see this description for more details):
Responsibilities: The intern would work with the staff in the Los Angeles office on a wide range of activities related to outreach, organizing and communications. Depending on the intern's interests and skills projects could include: updating and possibly redesigning the Coalition website; assist in coordination of CFJC steering committee meetings and communications; support strategic planning taking place summer 2006; translating CFJC outreach materials and website into Spanish; and assisting with member communications through the CFJC e-newsletter, print newsletter, action alerts and possible mailings. The intern will also offer general administrative support when needed.
Skills and Qualifications: Excellent writing and editing skills - Web design or content management experience or interest - Good phone skills - Attention to detail - Experience with all Microsoft programs, including Excel and PowerPoint - Data analysis and researching - Enthusiasm for food justice issues.
Apply by Monday, May 29, 2006: Send a one-page letter stating your interest and availability, along with a sample of your own writing, to heather [at] foodsecurity [dot] org or fax to 310.822.1440.
2. Intern for Land Access Membership Action Team (see this description for more details)
Responsibilities: The intern would work with the Land Access committee to complete and compile case studies on land tenure models. This could include doing interviews, follow-up research and compiling case studies for an on-line publication. The intern will also assist in the committee’s efforts to develop recommendations for a future campaign. This may include: researching policy issues and programs related to land tenure; assisting co-chairs to convene meetings and conference calls; taking meeting notes; or drafting recommendations based on in put at meetings and research findings. Specific duties will be decided depending on the intern’s interest and availability and the most pressing tasks.
Skills and Qualifications: Compiling the case studies will require putting different voices and concerns into one cohesive and compelling publication, therefore we are looking for someone with excellent writing and editing skills. Candidates should be well versed with Microsoft applications and be comfortable doing most of their communication on the case study drafts through email and telephone calls.
To Apply: Please send a one-page letter stating your interest in the project, along with a sample of your own writing, to heather [at] foodsecurity [dot] org and Neelam [at] csuinc [dot] org or fax to 310.822.1440.
UPDATE: August 18, 2006--Please note that this position has been filled, and SEE-LA is no longer accepting applications.
SEE-LA (Sustainable Economic Enterprises of Los Angeles) has an exciting job opportunity within its Farm to Table Program. They are seeking a Farm to Table Program Assistant to coordinate their "Bring the Farmer to Your School Program."
For information, download the job description. Requirements and contact information are included in the description.
Steven Kiralla is interested in locating Slow Food colleagues who wish to collaborate regarding Slow Food/gardening projects in schools. He is offering his expertise as a gardener, horticulturalist, agriculturalist, master gardener, and chef to others who want to enter a school and work on projects related to Slow Food in schools, school gardens, and school nutrition. He is available to discuss each challenge on a project-by-project basis and discuss projects he has worked on in the past.
Steven Kiralla can be contact directly at 310.713.7176 or LorenaSteven [at] aol [dot] com.
For more information about this position, please contact Theodore Payne Foundation directly. Contact information is below.
Seed Room Coordinator
Theodore Payne Foundation, Sun Valley, CaliforniaThe Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers and Native Plants, Inc., seeks a motivated, hard-working individual to coordinate activities in our seed room and to assist with retail sales activities. The Seed Room Coordinator processes seed orders, manages seed inventory, and cleans wild collected seed, among other duties related to our seed program. The Coordinator also assists with customer assistance in the Foundation's bookstore, including answering questions about California native plants and gardening and assists with sales, customer questions, and telephone queries.
This is a part-time position. Most work is conducted indoors, though there is some fieldwork on the property, such as seed collecting and gardening. The Foundation is located in the San Fernando Valley, which can be particularly hot in the summer months. The Coordinator would work 3 days a week, for a total of 24 hours per week. Saturday is one of the days when the Coordinator would be required on-site to assist with retail operations.
If you are interested, please submit a resume and cover letter to Margaret Robison at the Theodore Payne Foundation, 10459 Tuxford Street, Sun Valley, CA 91352. A detailed description of position responsibilities is available at www.theodorepayne.org.
The Theodore Payne Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the use of California native plants.
Our friends at the Community Food Security Coalition have asked us to alert our readers to the following job opportunity. Please see the contact information below if you are qualified and interested:
Position Available: Food Policy Council Program CoordinatorThe Community Food Security Coalition (CFSC) is a national alliance of 250 organizations dedicated to the creation of comprehensive solutions to the nation's nutrition, farming, and hunger problems. The CFSC promotes food self-reliance and local food systems through organizing, networking, training and technical assistance, and policy advocacy.
The Food Policy Council Program is a new national initiative designed to support the development and operation of food policy councils,* and to help them identify ways to build markets for limited resource farmers. The program objectives are to:
++ Increase networking and information-sharing opportunities among existing and emerging food policy councils.
++ Expand linkages between food policy councils and limited resource producers and the organizations that represent them.
++ Increase the effectiveness of existing and emerging food policy councils through technical assistance.
++ Identify and promote model policies and best practices for food policy councils to build markets for limited resource producers.
Responsibilities The Coordinator will work closely with CFSC's Training and Technical Assistance Program Director and Food Policy Specialist to develop and implement this new program. The Coordinator will be responsible for: ++ Coordinating outreach to existing and emerging food policy councils (FPCs), and groups working with limited resource farmers; ++ Making linkages and helping build relationships between the above groups; ++ Surveying FPCs to identify their interests and technical assistance (TA) needs; ++ Replying to requests for TA and coordinating with Food Policy Specialist to address TA needs; ++ Planning quarterly conference calls for FPC organizers on topical themes; ++ Researching and editing a brief publication on FPC policies and practices to support limited resource farmers; ++ Reporting to the program funder (USDA Risk Management Agency)Desired Qualifications
++ At least three years program management experience;
++ Experience working with food policy councils or local or state policy;
++ Experience working with farmers and/or groups representing them;
++ Strong writing skills;
++ Ability to work effectively with and build bridges between diverse organizations;
++ Substantive knowledge of community food security, food policy, limited-resource farming, sustainable agriculture, and/or related issues;
++ Excellent communication and inter-personal skills
++ Strong organizational skills;
++ Self motivated and dependable;
++ Able to work occasional weekends and evenings and to travel to conferences around the country;
++ Strong computer skills, preferably including Word, Excel, Filemaker Pro for Macintosh.Location
CFSC's office in Los Angeles, CA. Other locations for exceptional candidates may be considered.Compensation
This is a full-time position, with a starting salary of $38,000-$42,000. Generous benefits include flexible scheduling, medical and dental insurance, vacation, holidays, sick leave, and a retirement plan with employer match.The Community Food Security Coalition is an equal opportunity employer. Women and people of color are encouraged to apply.
Deadline for receipt of applications: September 23, 2005. Position open until filled. Start date: Approximately November 1, 2005.
E-mail or mail resume and cover letter to:
Andy Fisher
Community Food Security Coalition
PO Box 209
Venice, CA 90294
andy@foodsecurity.orgNo phone inquiries please!
* A Food Policy Council (FPC) is comprised of stakeholders from various segments of a state or local food system. Councils can be officially sanctioned through a government action such as an Executive Order, or can be a grassroots effort. The primary goal of many FPCs is to examine the operation of a local food system and provide ideas or recommendations for how it can be improved.
EarthWorks Enterprises has asked for help securing the following materials for their youth urban farm project. If you can donate any such materials, please email Connie Yost, the executive director, or call the farm manager, Mary Maverick, at 562.322.0739.
Their needs:
Riding tractor mower, equivalent to Craftsmen, 15 hp, 42"
Black or brown tarps, large 15' x 25'
Picnic tables
Wooden tables or benches
Red worms
Large wood chips with no leaves in them (by the truck load)
Drip irrigation supplies
Garden hoses
Hose-end sprinklers
Adjustable hose-end spray nozzles
Garden tools--all kinds (shovels, rakes, pruners, etc.)
Utility scissors/shears
Utility knife
Redwood lumber
Hardware cloth
White board, large
Outdoor chairs
2 freestanding sinks + faucet hardware for them
Set of basic tools for miscellaneous repairs
Shade cloth
Large plastic storage boxes
Plant labels
4-cu-ft or larger wheelbarrows or garden carts
Compost thermometer
TreePeople, a nonprofit environmental organization located in Los Angeles' 45-acre Coldwater Canyon Park, is seeking a Communications Manager to handle the day-to-day publications, media, and public relations needs of the organization. A college degree is required, preferably one in public relations, communications, marketing or English writing. This is a full-time position. Medical benefits, vacation, holidays, sick leave, and 403B plan provided. Salary commensurate with experience.
Please email resume and cover letter Diana de la Pena, TreePeople, 12601 Mulholland Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, ddelapena [at] treepeople [dot] org, fax: 818.753.4635. No phone calls please.
We've been alerted to an opening at the Trust for Public Land for a project manager. Our friends at the Common Ground Garden Program have shared this with us and asked us to alert our readers, noting that the project manager would work almost exclusively on the Parks for People--Los Angeles urban program.
Click here for the job description and application information posted on the Trust for Public Land site.
Pompea Smith and Kate Murphy, our friends at the Hollywood Farmers' Market, are looking for a few good people to help out on Sundays at the market. Their needs include:
++ Staffing the Market Information Booth (answering questions, handing out parking validations, selling market retail items, etc);
++ Staffing the new "Veggie Valet" Service (a drop off/pick up site for customer's groceries); and
++ Assisting with various market activities & events including Tomato Festival, Anniversary Celebration, Spring Into Health, Chef Demos, auditing vendors.
If you have special talents that don't fall into these areas but you believe would be useful to the market, please let them know. All interested potential volunteers can contact Pompea or Kate at 323. 463.3171 or by email to kate [at] see-la [dot] org.
Our friends at the Common Ground Garden Project have alerted us to this available position at The Merry Garden at Hollygrove:
A dynamic gardening instructor is needed to teach a garden class for 7-8 children, some with learning or emotional disabilities, aged 9-12 years. The class will be held weekly on Thursdays at 8:45am at Hollygrove located in Hollywood. Â The Hancock Park Garden Club maintains a vegetable garden at the Hollygrove facility, and will pay the instructor's salary--$30 per session ($15 for an hour's preparation plus $15 for an hour's teaching). Â This position is funded until June 2005.
Qualifications: A dynamic instructor with experience in a horticulture or horticultural therapy, and experience teaching children a must. Knowledge of environmental science or naturalist training preferred.
Hollygrove was established in 1880 as the Los Angeles Orphans Home Society. In the 122 years of its existence it has evolved from an orphanage to a residential treatment program and home for abused and neglected children, ages 6-13. Â The campus is located in Hollywood and includes residential cottages to accommodate 68 children.
Please email resume to Ginger Lincoln at lincoln6@aol.com, or call 323.935.6612 for more information.
We've been informed of an opportunity to secure a $1,000 grant for community gardens--either existing ones or those in the development stage. The grant program is sponsored by the American Community Gardening Association and Tom's of Maine. The application deadline is fast approaching, though, and materials are due 15 August.
The application form is available here. Completed applications should be sent to:
Layman Lee
American Community Gardening Association National Office
c/o Council on the Environment of NYC
51 Chambers Street, Suite 228
New York, New York 10007
Phone: 877.ASK.ACGA
Fax: 212.788.7913
Email to drkxange1@hotmail.com
This opportunity was brought to our attention by the Common Ground Garden Program.
Volunteers of the Common Ground Garden Program help low-income and limited-resource county residents to grow and eat more nutritious vegetables and fruits. Programs include Master Gardener volunteers (seasonal gardening presentations) and Fresh From The Garden volunteers (simple nutrition and food safety presentations). They work primarily with community gardens, school gardens, seniors, and homeless and battered women's shelters.
Zazel Loven writes:
Hi! I am looking for an organic rose garden to photograph for Organic Gardening magazine - also seeking home gardeners growing ethnic plants, as well as interesting organic gardens and gardeners, if anyone has suggestions I would love to hear. Thanx!For more information and to submit great possibilities contact Zazel Loven directly via email to zazel.loven@rodale.com.
Ankist Zadeyan of My Place Bistro in San Diego seeks a chef who is "interested in ably applying the principles of 'Slow Food'." Please read on for general information and contact data.
Ankist Zadeyan writes:
My Place Bistro is almost a year old and doing well. However, this year of experience has revealed to us that slow and smooth is the key to success.We are looking for someone who is interested in ably applying the principles of "Slow Food" to our small, bistro-like restaurant. We believe that combining exceptional cuisine and consideration for our community is empowering, not mutually exclusive. Professional, organized and flexible - we would like a chef whose principles are reflected in his product.
It is my hope that this request is in the spirit of the Slow Food movement. If you can be of any assistance, either through a recommendation or course
of action, it would be much appreciated.I can be reached at this email, ankistz@aol.com or 760.757.9502. Thank you very much for any consideration.
Sincerely,
Ankist Zadeyan
LONG BEACH ORGANIC
Program Director Position Announcement
Long Beach Organic is seeking a dynamic environmental activist to manage and develop all aspects of its community gardening and educational programs.
BACKGROUND:
Long Beach Organic is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable gardening practices and local food production in an urban environment. In urban areas, where our connection to the land that sustains us is easily forgotten, we seek to promote links to our food and environment and, in the process, foster a sense of community. Currently we manage four community gardens that serve over 100 families; help local schools develop organic gardens and gardening curriculum; offer an annual organic gardening workshop series; and operate a small nursery and demonstration food forest and garden.
The Program Director will work as a peer with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors. The successful candidate will focus primarily on the management and improvement of our existing programs and the development of a new horticultural therapy program for at-risk youth. She or he will also perform a key role in the organization’s outreach efforts to raise the visibility of Long Beach Organic, expand its membership and volunteer base, and increase its services in low-income neighborhoods.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Development and maintenance of our community gardens, including procurement of supplies and materials;
Organize and lead volunteer workdays at our community gardens;
Orient community garden program participants and recruit volunteer community garden managers;
Coordinate, publicize and teach (and/or recruit local experts to teach) an annual organic gardening workshop series;
Help schools design and install organic gardens and develop gardening curriculum;
Teach school gardening classes (using a “train-the-trainer” approach);
Coordinate and publicize regular meetings of the Long Beach School Garden and Nutrition Coalition;
Help manage a small nursery and demonstration food garden;
Help develop a new horticultural therapy program for at-risk youth;
Community outreach (tabling at community events, attending community forums, etc.) to promote the benefits of organic gardening and supporting local (ideally organic) farmers and to increase the visibility Long Beach Organic;
Volunteer recruitment and training;
Help write grant proposals;
Help research and write articles for a quarterly newsletter.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Strong desire to foster sustainable urban environments;
Organic gardening/farming experience and commitment to organic methods;
General understanding of community food security issues;
Experience working with youth, particularly at-risk and/or low-income youth;
Knowledge of school gardening curriculum;
Strong written and oral communication and facilitation skills and an energetic and inclusive teaching style;
Program/project management and development experience;
Experience working with diverse populations;
Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access and Publisher) software;
Networking and conflict resolution skills;
Flexibility and a sense of humor;
College degree in environmental discipline desirable;
Nonprofit work experience desirable;
Fundraising, particularly grant proposal writing, experience a plus;
Working knowledge of Spanish a plus;
Familiarity with Long Beach neighborhoods and environmental issues a plus.
COMPENSATION:
This is a full-time position with a $25,000 annual salary, full medical and dental benefits and a generous vacation allowance. There is potential for a salary increase after six months.
HOW TO APPLY:
Qualified applicants should send cover letter and resume by mail to Long Beach Organic, Attn: Hiring Committee, 1336 Gladys Ave, Long Beach, CA 90804 or by email to info@longbeachorganic.org. Deadline for applications is May 10.
Long Beach Organic is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Gregory Jocz
Executive Director
Long Beach Organic
1336 Gladys Ave
Long Beach, CA 90804
562/438-9000
www.longbeachorganic.org