We started by discussing ‘who we are’, ‘what we are trying to do’ and ‘how can we get there’. The important part was the big picture, the visioning possibilities, dreaming and imagination, the potential spirit, and ideal purpose.  Each person introduced themselves and shared their skills. We reviewed the first salon. Ten people showed up; there was interaction, dialogue and networking.  Ideas, energy and sharing food was an very important element during the program.

Car free day was successful. 

The search to unify the fragments of ideas was discussed. 

The breakdown of topics discussed included Planning - Activity - around fieldhouse and garden, the design of the garden, Document sharing effectiveness, Materials - including tools, furniture)(inside/outside.) As well, schedule, budget and labour were discussed.

Mavis , who is new on board  is thinking of maybe needing to rehash or rearrange the plan, stressing that LESS IS MORE.  She suggested using a spiral as a guide for all planning thinking ‘where do the paths take you?’.  As well, ‘what is the theme, values, aesthetics?’  Once a theme is decided, the details can be dealt with.  ‘If each artist creates something for the community, it makes for a better community.’

Varouj shared that the goal of the garden is for shared plots with community participation. We are still working on which model to use. Woodlands in Strathcona is an example.

Mavis suggests  ‘park’ and ‘play’ - looking like a leaf incorporating ‘leaf and play’ using an organic swirly path.

Varouj talked about beehive boxes, weaving with individual style of boxes

Watersheds was a question. Pat has expertise in this area.  Anya wants to incorporate history reminding people of the importance of water flow.

Varouj wants to save memory of earth (soil) (Art Bomke). Memory of community - which is a challenge regarding developer demolishment of community causing loss of identity and belonging. The question is ‘how to retain’ those memories.  First Nations would know, which would help determine choice in plants.0

Anya - vision - document for help. Varouj mentioned filmmaker David Veisboard to document - Mavis knows him. The question was ‘when to get him on board’. Maybe  now at the meetings. AA

Vancouver Foundation - show and tell

Varouj mentioned that some civic groups work in isolation; isolation is challenging.

STRENGTH IS PROGRESSIVE

Budget  goal is $25,000; Budget now is $5,000-6,000 including $2,000 donated from end of Drift

FIELDHOUSE - Maddy says that the other group involved are artists with big yoga focus.
Shelves are needed. It will be used for storage, meetings. We have access to it for one year. We need to commit to 300 hours of programming for the year. There is no rent and no funding and no charging for events until after the 300 hours.  Suggestions from the group are: social work for seniors (Diane), teaching skills, garden lectures, public meetings, garden philosopher’s cafe, food drop in, breakfasts for children.

As a model for the fieldhouse, we discussed about what makes Marche or other similar coffee shops in the neighbourhood successful? Some comments were relaxed, destination, inviting, messy, family-oriented, sanctuary, soul, artist studio, hostel upstairs, details, blankets, cozy, homey, warmth, noncommercial, sense of belonging and heritage, art, consistency with family style, attitude and vision, music, vibe.  Mavis likes the idea of using the Marche as a model for the fieldhouse.

Vic and Mavis will work on design of logo and vision for garden.AA

Pecha Kucha would be great for events at fieldhouse. Share and enhance. Sam Sullivan style.

Meet with other group - yoga to discuss collaboration
Shared vision between garden and fieldhouse
One suggestion for fundraising was to grow vegetables at start to sell at farmer’s market to raise money for garden. Potatoes are low maintenance and are great for soil 

Check craigslist for shed structures AA

AA action to take