Motherhood: A selfless act of love

BY: ELLE DJ

This year, Mother's Day falls on Sunday, May 14th, 2023, and it's the perfect opportunity to appreciate and honor the hard work and dedication of mothers everywhere. Motherhood is both an incredibly rewarding and challenging experience for women. It involves creating a loving and nurturing environment for their children while also managing their careers and personal lives.

Mothers demonstrate understanding, compassion, patience, and selflessness in everything they do for their families. They cook, clean, help with homework, run errands, and still find time to spend with their children. Even though they may face criticism or feel like they are not doing things the "right" way, what matters most is that they love their children unconditionally and provide them with the support they need.

Despite the challenges, motherhood is also a source of pride and joy. Watching their children grow and develop into their own unique individuals is a reward like no other. Mothers get to see the world through their children's eyes and share in their successes and triumphs.

It's important to show appreciation and gratitude towards your mom all year round, not just on Mother's Day. A simple act of kindness, like helping around the house or running errands, can make a big difference and show your appreciation.

In the community, Jane Finch Mall is hosting a "Mom" celebration on May 13th, from 12-3 PM, to honor mothers everywhere. Additionally, Jane Finch Tennis is hosting a "Mommy and Me" tennis event on the same day, from 3:30-5:30 PM at the San Romano Way Tennis Courts. These events are a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your mom and show her just how much she means to you.

In conclusion, Mother's Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate all the hard work and dedication that mothers put in every day. It's a chance to recognize their selflessness and unwavering love for their families. Remember to show your appreciation and gratitude not just on Mother's Day, but every day of the year.

Earth Day event taking place at Downsview Park

BY: Kareem Azamtah

Downsview Park's Playzone is set to host an exciting event on April 23rd from 11 AM - 4 PM to celebrate Earth Day and promote environmental awareness. The public is invited to attend this free event, where they can enjoy hands-on activities, interact with educational staff and vendors, and participate in other engaging activities. This event is perfect for families and friends who want to join forces and learn more about protecting our planet. So mark your calendars and get ready to have fun while celebrating Earth Day at Downsview Park's Playzone.

Downsview Park encourages you to sign up on Eventbrite to let them know you’re coming! Registration will be required to attend certain activities: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/earth-day-jour-de-la-terre-tickets-568679384347 

Some activities include: 

Tree Planting:

There will be two sessions:

Session 1: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Session 2: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

*Registration will be required to attend. You only need 1 ticket per family. Please arrive 10 minutes before the session. Information about planting locations will be provided closer to the day. All equipment will be provided. No experience necessary. Please double-check what time you have signed up for.

Trishaw rides offered by Cycling Without Age: 

Go on a trishaw ride around the Circuit Path! Our Greenway Conservancy is back with its program “Cycling Without Age.” The objective of the program is to provide seniors and less able-bodied people with free rides on a specialized bike called a trishaw. Experience it yourself on Earth Day 2023!

*Registration will be required to attend. Only 18 sessions are available. You only need 1 ticket per couple.

Guided Nature Walks by Toronto Field Naturalists

Toronto Field Naturalists will be guiding two nature walk sessions to talk about invasive species, ethical birding and more.

Toronto Field Naturalists is a volunteer-run non-profit and a member of the province-wide Ontario Nature Network of naturalist organizations. They connect people with nature in the Toronto area. To help people understand, enjoy, and protect Toronto’s green spaces and the species that inhabit them.

*Registration will be required to attend. Two sessions are available.

As we continue to face the pressing issue of climate change, it's important to take action and reduce our environmental footprint. Fortunately, an opportunity is available for those who share the same love for the earth. Celebrating Earth Day at Downsview Park is a great way to connect with like-minded individuals, improve the environment, and honor our planet for all that it has done for us.

Earth Day has been observed for over fifty years and originated in 1969 when US Senator Gaylord Nelson witnessed the devastating effects of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. He called for action in 1970, and thousands of colleges and universities across the United States set up protests to promote environmental awareness, sustainability, and protection of the planet. These rallies led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the establishment of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts into law.

However, despite the progress made since then, we still face environmental concerns. The way our planet has been treated is worse than it was in 1969, but thanks to the upcoming Earth Day event at Downsview Park, individuals can become more educated on how to take care of the Earth and ensure its preservation for future generations. It's important to remember that even small actions can make a difference in preserving our planet, and this event is an excellent opportunity to take the first step in making a positive impact.

Local politicians sit down with students from Stanley P.S. to discuss environmental issues, plans for the future

BY: Jasleen Kambo

On January 24, 2023, Member of Provincial Parliament for Humber River-Black Creek Tom Rakocevic, as well as Ward 4 Toronto District School Board Trustee Matias de Dovitiis sat down with local Grade 5 students at Stanley Public School to discuss the future of Ontario’s environmentally protected areas.

The meeting arose after a few civically engaged students wrote thoughtful letters to their local MPP, when they heard that the Ontario Greenbelt was in danger of being developed over due to Bill 123, the More Homes Built Faster Act, as well as in response to other environmental concerns.

When MPP Rakocevic read these letters, he knew he wanted to connect with the students on a deeper level and teach them how decisions are made in local politics. Being impressed by the students’ initiative, he wanted to discuss their concerns.

“Your letters matter.” said Rakocevic to students. “We win by working together…to convince the government not to develop on the greenbelt.” 

Local Toronto District School Board Trustee, Matias de Dovitiis, was happy to attend the meeting as well to engage with the curious students.

“Very intelligent, well written, and eloquent letters.” de Dovitiis complimented the students. “Be environmentally conscious. Think about where your food comes from and how its grown. Think about where your clothes come from, where the materials come from, and how your clothes are made.” 

Trustee de Dovitiis also expressed the importance of writing letters to the government, citing how one of the first anti-slavery movements occurred through writing letters to the government in the name of abolitionism. 

Through the letters as well as at the meeting, students shared their thoughts, hopes and worries. The discussion was lively, and students were able to ask questions directly to their elected officials.

Grade 5 student Kim’s letter was researched, detailed, and thoughtfully written. 

“This issue concerns me as the Greenbelt is a valuable part of our society and the removal of 7,400 square acres of it will affect our country greatly. Even if the Provincial Government will add another 9,000 square aces to the Greenbelt, it won’t be that simple. If the Provincial Government could just “add more” to the Greenbelt, why don’t they just build more housing there?” Posited Kim.

The students demonstrated critical thinking, logical reasoning, and perhaps most importantly, the capacity to create solutions—something increasingly being demanded of the next generation who will inherit many social and environmental challenges.

Grade 5 Student Andrea expressed a more local concern. 

“I have been noticing more trash lately when I go for walks, there are many cigarette butts and coffee or soft drink cups. I went online to read news articles about pollution because of this, and as a result, I now know that pollution has been rising in the riding I live in. I would prefer it if Toronto had less pollution because it is already located in a region with a higher level of pollution than most.” Wrote Andrea.

The environmental issues were tackled from many angles. Additionally, Grade 5 Student Akshaya shared her concern for the human element of the impending development, as well as for local wildlife. 

“As we start building on the Greenbelt I am worried about the farmers losing their farmlands and leading up to quitting and us losing more opportunities to get fruits and vegetables in our local community.” Opined Akshaya. “I am concerned about the animals losing their habitat and being frightened by the construction machines.” 

TDSB Teacher Maria Grossi was happy to facilitate this engaging dialogue between students and their elected officials. She expressed a deep pride for their empathy, and willingness to try to make change. 

Unfortunately, Mrs. Grossi informed the local representatives that she did receive a response from the office of the Premier which thanked the class for their letters but informed them that they were moving ahead with their plans to develop the greenbelt.  

Despite the saddening news, Mrs. Grossi was inspired by the work and creativity that went into her students’ letters.

“I’m so proud of them, they really took to the issue on their own and I’m so proud of how socially aware they are, especially on such an important issue like this one. It’s a great opportunity for them to speak out on such a pressing issue.” Shared Grossi. 

In closing, students appreciated being given the direct opportunity to connect with their civic representatives, and while the answer from the government of the day may not have been what they had hoped for, they at least understood that their voices were heard. 

“If I want you to remember anything from today, it’s not that your MPP or Trustee visited your classroom, but how you felt when you wrote your letters.” MPP Tom imparted upon the class. “I hope the motivation to care about the environment, and about social issues stays with you forever.” 

Black Creek Community Farms and Our Planet

BY: Miwako Chang

Throughout the month of March, we recognize several key parts of our ecosystem. These include the International Day of Forests on March 21, World Water Day on March 22, and the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30. These observances are established to celebrate, raise awareness, and highlight and encourage continued action to maintain, protect, and restore the earth’s resources. 

Black Creek Community Farms (BCCF) is a Toronto farm and market garden that grows over 40 different vegetables, with over 100 varieties from around the world that reflect their diverse community. BCCF is proud to be Ecocert certified, a standard for organic certification in Canada. Ecocert is committed to ensuring sustainable production and processes. These include the efficient use of natural resources such as energy, water, air, and oil, social responsibility, and product quality and safety.

BCCF demonstrates it’s continued commitment to current social and environmental challenges through their sustinable practices. These include supporting soil fertility and life, as well as maintaining biodiversity. The local farm manages pests without the use of pesticides and harvests several times per week to ensure the freshest produce possible, often having been picked only 24 to 48 hours prior.

Supporting BCCF is funding the growth of fresh, organic produce and the continuation of sustainable and ethical practices. However, proceeds also support the farm’s community initiatives. This also includes BCCF’s 8 acres of urban green space that houses a variety of animals, birds, and insects. The local farm is a key element to the community, as it brings residents together for educational activities, food programs, seasonal events, and more.

This past year, BCCF ran their Harvest Share program, a produce subscription based on the Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) model. This idea aims to strengthen the relationships between all contributors to local food system. The organization’s Thursday Farm Stands featured seasonal produce, as well as guest vendors and events.

For more information, visit www.blackcreekfarm.ca.