Showing posts with label CFPC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CFPC. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Mayor's Letter

A couple days ago, I asked people to send a letter to the Mayor, requesting that he make a point of meeting the the CFPC.

Scott and Vi have both let me know that they have sent letters, and I know that Paul has sent a few. I'd like to reiterate the importance of this issue, and ask again that letters be sent. Please feel free to personalize the email I sent and to email it to themayor@calgary.ca

You can read it here.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

A letter to the Mayor's office

Hi guys-
I just got an email via the google group. It sounds like Mayor Bronconnier has not been able to meet with the CFPC yet, which is unfortunate. The role the CFPC has to play in developing food security in Calgary is vital - and can only be achieved in collaboration with city hall.

I've sent an email to the Mayor's office, urging him to meet with the CFPC. I would appreciate very much if everyone here could take the time to do the same. The email address is themayor[at]calgary.ca I know that you all have busy schedules, but I also believe strongly that the 15 minute time investment is very worthwhile. Here is the message I sent- you are absolutely welcome to simply enclose it in your email with a few words of support, if that is what best fits your schedule.

I would like to emphasize the importance of working with city hall on these issues- I know that there are sometimes differences of opinion, but the best way to find middle ground is to work together and talk it over.


Dear Mayor Bronconnier,

I would first like to congratulate you. It most satisfying to see the City of Calgary taking its first steps to ensure greater food security on behalf of its citizens. Calgary, having been a "have" province for many years now, is in a unique position to set an example as a City that is not afraid of change. There is great economic and societal benefit to taking advantage of the "green" movement, and using it to strengthen our community.

It recently came to my attention that you have been unable to meet with the Calgary Food Policy Council, a volunteer group which represents the growing interest in Calgary for a stronger foundation of food security. In the past year, the interest in urban agriculture and local food systems has grown. You must be aware of the activity- as the City of Calgary recently approved four new community gardens. We all saw this as an encouraging sign that your office has taken an interest in the longevity of our communities and the stability of our food supply.

I would like to add my voice to what is sure to be a chorus as this movement continues to grow. Food security is important to the people of Calgary. The mayors of Toronto and Vancouver meet with their Food Policy Councils on a regular basis, because the development of a plan for greater health, wellness and security is integral to their roles. It would be most reassuring to see that you feel the same way.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,

Rachel Simpson
Student, and concerned citizen



I have not been especially involved in the work of the CFPC, but I do think that their organization is important, and I support the work they do. Once again, you can send your email to themayor[at]calgary.ca,

Cheers,
Rachel

Friday, December 12, 2008

Updates!

CFPC

The CFPC met yesterday to talk about plans for a 2011 Calgary campaign. This campaign will play off of goals in cities like London and Vancouver to have over 2000 community gardens in the city by said year. In the new year, the group will be continuing to grow, become more organized and start to promote itself- beginning with an article in the Herald. This is an exciting plan, and one I'll be keeping you informed about as it progresses.

2012 urban gardens in London by 2012

CUA Meetup!

Thursday the 18th will be our next Calgary Urban Agriculture meetup! We invite everyone out to share what they're involved with, projects they're working on, or just to come learn about what's happening around urban agriculture in Calgary.

Details on Facebook

Personal Research

In Vancouver, I've been beginning my research to design a microhome, with closed-loop food and waste processing systems, higher energy production than consumption and passive heating/ cooling. This is obviously a demanding project, one which will take me on many adventures over the course of the next2 years. Feel free to chat with me about the project, whether you are simply interested, have questions, or would like to share experience/ technical expertise. All interest is welcome!