Join us on October 24 from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM for a free community workshop with Chris Penner, an applied ecologist with experience in ecological restoration, invasive species management, and urban ecology.

Chris has been working with Seeds of Life Alliance and St. Norbert Arts Centre to assess the riparian forest along the Red River and develop a plan for restoring and enhancing this unique natural space.

The goal goes beyond simply planting more plants. We’re looking at the forest as a complete ecosystem—from the overstory and existing mature trees, through the shrub and understory layers, all the way down to native flowering plants and ground cover.

The restoration will explore how we can:

• Increase the diversity of native trees, shrubs, understory plants, and wildflowers
• Manage invasive and aggressive species and improve the health of the forest floor
• Create better nesting, shelter, and food sources for birds
• Provide more habitat and season-long food sources for pollinators
• Use native vegetation to support soil health, stabilization, and the overall resilience of the riverbank
• Introduce flowering native plants that provide blooms throughout the growing season
• Protect existing and newly planted trees and shrubs as they establish
• Beautify the area while maintaining its natural character, creating a space that can also complement the arts, gatherings, events, and weddings that take place at SNAC
• Develop a restoration approach that can be cared for and built upon over the coming years

Chris will share some of what he has observed during his assessment of the site, explain the ecological thinking behind the restoration plan, and talk about plant selection, invasive species, habitat creation, and practical approaches that community members can apply in other natural and garden spaces.

This is also an opportunity to learn more about the restoration work beginning at St. Norbert Arts Centre and how thoughtful planting and stewardship can create spaces that are both ecologically valuable and beautiful places for people to enjoy.

This event is sponsered by nature canada.

Dare to investigate?

Our Garden Club is open to anyone with a curious mind and a willingness to dig in. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, you'll find a welcoming space to share knowledge, lend a hand, and grow together—literally and figuratively. Members support each other in our gardens, build friendships, and deepen their understanding of ecological gardening.

You are warmly invited to experience Artful Awareness, an exhibit that harnesses the transformative power of art to support emotional processing and the gentle reshaping of unhelpful patterns and behaviours. Through a compelling series of masks, this exhibit offers a visual and deeply human expression of the emotions, experiences, and symptoms encountered in the daily lives of individuals living with ME/CFS.

At the heart of this exhibit is a sincere desire to inform and raise awareness among the general public about this complex and often misunderstood medical condition. Through artwork created on masks, we aim to give form to what is often unseen—inviting understanding, empathy, and meaningful dialogue.

Each mask reflects a journey—inviting you to witness how creative expression can strengthen the body-mind connection, enhance emotional regulation, and open pathways toward relief and clarity. This meaningful collection not only shares lived experiences but also fosters self-awareness, connection, and the compassionate processing of complex emotions.

Explore beautiful works of art from local artists.

Doors open at 7pm. Rushed seating.

Music at 7:30pm

Burnstick is a JUNO-nominated husband-and-wife folk duo from Manitoba, known for their emotionally stirring storytelling, cinematic soundscapes, and unmistakable vocal harmonies. Featuring Nadia and Jason Burnstick, the duo pairs Nadia’s rich, textured voice with Jason’s mastery of the lap slide Weissenborn guitar to create deeply moving, intimate music that resonates with listeners.

Following their acclaimed debut album Kîyânaw, Burnstick released their sophomore album, Made of Sin, a five-year labour of love exploring themes of love, family, time, and personal and societal healing. The album includes songs reflecting Jason’s experience as a Sixties Scoop survivor, the joys and responsibilities of parenthood, and reflections on relationships past and present. Tracks like Closer, Moonlit, and the title track Made of Sin highlight the duo’s skill at balancing haunting beauty with emotional truth.

With unforgettable melodies, profound lyrics, and heartfelt performances, Burnstick continues to solidify their place as one of Canada’s most compelling contemporary folk acts.

Website: https://www.burnstickduo.com/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dbsbN4GmkykhylRBqDQaL

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/burnstickmusic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burnstickmusic/

You’re invited to our Annual General Meeting on Sunday January 18th, 2026. We will me presenting our yearly report, revieiwng financial statements, and welcoming our new board members.

Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.