Category Archives: Creating Centre Community Canvas

Writer’s Journal about local community Arts, Crafts and Culture

Caroline Carrière, Massage Therapist: A Journey of Passion, Healing, and Personal Growth

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Caroline Carrière, better known as Caro by her loved ones and clients, has knitted a remarkable path from her early aspirations in child welfare to her current role as a massage therapist specializing in energy healing. Her story involves love and dedication to helping others, personal growth, and a dream of professional excellence.

Caro’s journey began with pursuing a Diploma of College Studies (DEC) in social work at the Cité Collégiale in Ottawa. Her deeply rooted desire to work for child welfare services fueled her educational journey. After completing her studies, she dedicated eight years of her life to working with children, split between family environments and early childhood education centers.

However, fate had other plans for Caro, and three years ago, she embarked on a new path as a massage therapist, coupled with achieving her third level in energetic Reiki Usui. This transition allowed her to fulfill her passion while balancing her role as a devoted mother to two wonderful daughters.

Throughout her transformative journey, Caroline has continually invested in her professional development, undertaking various training courses in massage therapy and energy healing. Her commitment to offering quality service to her clients is evident in the diverse range of treatments she provides, including relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, cupping therapy, and Reiki Usui energy.

Caro’s dedication and passion for her craft are further exemplified in her recent training in advanced techniques such as Lipocavitation, Infratherapy, Electrostimulation, and Pressotherapy. These treatments focus on physical wellness, targeting fat reduction and cellulite elimination, and promote overall well-being by addressing stress, fatigue, pain relief, and improved circulation.


I had the opportunity to ask Caroline some questions to learn more about her work and passion. Here are some of her insights about well-being and self-care that she shared with me:

 

What motivated you to specialize in energy healing in massage therapy?

Life has a way of guiding us to where we are meant to be. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason. Despite the challenges we encounter, there is always a purpose behind our experiences.
I have always felt a deep desire to help others, and my compassionate nature led me to pursue this path. Through my experiences and personal growth journey, I have understood the importance of supporting those in need. Integrating energy healing into massage therapy allows me to address emotional wounds that may manifest as physical pain in my clients.

 

Is there anything you recommend for people to improve their well-being?

I believe prioritizing our well-being is vital in a society that often emphasizes productivity over self-care. There are several ways to improve our well-being. Firstly, getting an adequate amount of sleep is crucial. Children should aim for 8 to 10 hours, while adults need around 7.5 hours of sleep. Maintaining a healthy diet, drinking at least 2 litres of water daily, and engaging in 20 minutes of exercise daily are essential for overall well-being. We live in a world saturated with screens and negative messages. Limiting screen time can improve attention and mood and reduce stress. Slowing down and focusing on meaningful connections, such as having family meals and conversations, is also important. Planning and preparing meals in advance can help reduce stress and create more quality time with family during the week.
Personally, I find that waking up earlier to practice self-care rituals such as Reiki, meditation, and exercise a few times a week gives me the energy and positivity I need to start my day. These practices contribute significantly to my overall well-being.

 

How do you incorporate energy-healing techniques into your massage sessions?

A. Before integrating energy healing techniques such as Reiki into a massage session, I always obtain the client’s consent. I do not use energy treatments in all massage therapy sessions. For new clients or those who may benefit from energy healing, I explain the process of a Reiki energy session and the potential benefits it can offer.

 

What are the principles behind energy healing, and how does it differ from traditional massage therapy?

Traditional massage therapy releases muscular tension to alleviate physical pain, improve mobility, and enhance circulation. On the other hand, Reiki energy healing aims to connect with an individual’s soul energy, requiring trust and respect between the practitioner and the recipient as it delves into the depths of the soul. This pure energy comes directly from the Divine Source. Combining energy healing with massage therapy can provide immense relief when necessary.

 

 What benefits do clients typically experience from receiving energy healing during a massage session?

Clients can experience various benefits from an energy healing session, including accelerated self-healing, increased energy, strengthened intuition, tension relief, stress reduction, emotional release, and improved symptoms of diseases. Additionally, it can enhance creativity, awareness, self-confidence, balance energies, eliminate toxins, strengthen the immune system, promote healing, support recovery after trauma, relieve pain, and optimize the effectiveness of medical treatments.

 

How do you assess and address the energy needs of each customer before starting a session?

Before every session, I emphasize to clients that I do not control the results and serve only as an intermediary between them and the Source. While a client might wish to work on specific aspects, the Source may address different issues. Ensuring clients have all the necessary information and that their questions are thoroughly answered before the session begins is essential.

 

One last question: how do you educate clients about energy healing and its potential impact on their well-being?

I provide each client with an information sheet detailing all aspects of a session before they decide to schedule an appointment with me. This ensures that all clients are well informed about the process and potential impacts on their well-being.

 

In summary, Caroline’s journey is truly inspiring for those committed to pursuing their passions, accepting change, and actively seeking personal and professional growth. Her dedication to self-improvement and exceptional care for her clients make her an extraordinary professional you would enjoy visiting.

If you’re interested in Caro’s treatments, you can check her Facebook page, CaroCarriere_Massotherapie https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064619781621

Contact her directly at [email protected]
or visit her at 425-B rue Principale, Grenville, QC

Social Justice, Religion, and Upcoming Projects: A Talk with Philip Oddi

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We are in the era of information and misinformation, of union and disunion, where some search for peace and some for disturbance.

Journalism plays a giant role in showing reality the way it is.

We can speak about five principles of ethical journalism: truth, independence, fairness, humanity, and accountability. This is how it should be, but sometimes, as an observer, a news reader, or a neighbour, it is hard to discern whether the news is coming from a reliable source or distorted by the writer’s prejudices.

 

In today’s world, the flow of information has never been so abundant, yet its integrity has never been questioned. The power of the internet and social media platforms has given rise to a multitude of voices, making it challenging to distinguish between facts and opinions, between genuine reporting and sensationalism.

 

News consumers and journalists have the responsibility to find the truth. This requires critical thinking and seeking out credible sources. However, it can be challenging due to biased reporting and misinformation.

 

Ethical journalism and critical news consumption are more crucial in this digital age, where information is transmitted at an unprecedented pace. By upholding the principles of ethical journalism and adopting a discerning mindset, we can navigate through the sea of information and arrive at a more informed and balanced understanding of the world around us.

Philip Oddi, a young aspiring journalist interested in poetry and short stories, is deeply committed to making a positive impact through his work. He believes in thoroughly educating himself about various social issues before attempting to educate or inform others. This approach, he feels, is integral to his personal and professional growth and to remaining true to his principles.

 

Phil’s strength lies in his exceptional listening skills, which allow him to effectively connect with people and tell their stories with empathy and accuracy. His genuine interest in continuous learning drives his passion for exploring taboo subjects and everyday life experiences, providing a unique perspective in his reporting.

 

In pursuing a career in journalism, he aims to foster open and honest conversations about important societal issues while remaining sensitive to diverse perspectives. His dedication to ethical and thoughtful journalism reflects his commitment to making a meaningful difference.

 

Philip grew up in Brantford, ON, and later moved to Kitchener, where the growing immigrant and refugee population was met with increasing discrimination. People fear what they don’t know; where there is fear; there’s hatred—observing the world around him and the unfairness with which people from different backgrounds were treated took him to dream of a change, and he found his way through journalism. After graduating from Wilfrid Laurier, he pursued further studies at York. He left feeling that the university environment wasn’t making any meaningful difference in the world; he had to think outside the box and follow his ideals.

The change Philip was seeking came when he realized that, as a journalist, he was not looking forward to speaking for the people; he wished to enhance their voices, as we say, giving a voice to those who usually are not heard.

 

One of his interests is caring for social issues like racism, religious matters, and minorities. Philip is currently working on a research project open to the community. To potentially influence significant new changes in the future by taking his research to big networks or simply sharing it in his blog. His project involves finding individuals in the Hawkesbury, Ontario and Lachute, Québec regions who would be interested in sharing their experiences before, during, and after the COVID-19 Pandemic regarding religion/religious experiences. This can include how your religious beliefs/values have changed, how you adapted your religious traditions/rituals, or your religious take on COVID events. Importantly, the project is not limited to these specific topics, welcoming a diverse range of experiences.

 

As Philip is currently learning French, interviews would need to be conducted in English. However, if you are a French speaker and have access to someone who can act as an English translator, you are welcome to reach out as well! The journalist initially planned to host interviews in person but can make accommodations when necessary to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all participants.

 

if you want to check out Philip’s blog, you can go ahead and follow this link

https://philipoddi.wordpress.com/

If you are interested in participating in his research, you can contact him here:

https://philipoddi.wordpress.com/contact-me/

Or email to:

[email protected]

Crafting Serenity: Pine Needle Basketry Workshop with Janis Goad

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Janis Goad, a passionate adventurer and avid traveller, always looks for her next exciting experience. Her curiosity drives her to immerse herself in diverse cultures and visit breathtaking landscapes around the globe.

When she’s not physically travelling the world, Janis embarks on captivating mental journeys through the power of art. Art and meditation have an uncanny ability to transport her to the most enchanting places.

Once, I came across something interesting that said: Thoughts are like seeds; you can grow flowers, or you can grow weeds. Engaging in creative hobbies, such as crafting, designing, or writing, can have a profoundly positive impact on our mental well-being. These activities offer us a chance to escape the stresses of daily life and immerse ourselves in the joy of creation. Whether we’re crafting art, designing objects, or writing poetry, these pursuits can help us tap into our inner creativity and express our thoughts and emotions in a meaningful way. By channelling our energy into these creative outlets, we can experience a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment, which can lift our spirits and bring a more positive outlook on life.

Today’s lives are fast-paced and sometimes take us far from our goals and our wish to pleasure our creative selves.
Janis pursued her dreams of finding her place in life and making things happen. She moved from Ontario to Yellowknife and enjoyed rural life. Then, she lived in Asia, where she studied yoga and taught English to locals. After moving to Vancouver, she had her first taste of pine needle basketry. When the pandemic hit, she continued working as an English teacher but found that teaching online wasn’t for her. The lack of socialization and the challenges of social distancing made her job harder and less enjoyable than it used to be. Looking for a place to call home, she moved to Vankleek Hill.

Janis, a skilled yoga instructor, brings a sense of serenity to the Anglican Church of Vankleek Hill with her lessons. Her expertise in meditation techniques and her ability to integrate mind and body continue to attract individuals looking for a break from their daily lives. In addition to her yoga practice, Janis also enjoys spending her free time at the Creating Centre writing workshop and crafts groups at the Arbor Gallery.

One of her projects involves creating objects using corn husks. For example, she is working on making beautiful, colourful, and wearable hats entirely made from natural materials. She believes that working with these biodegradable materials reflects the circle of life. The decorative objects are designed to have a life cycle until they return to the Earth. Similar to other talented artists, Janis sees poetry everywhere she looks.

Another one of her cherished pastimes is basketry, as mentioned previously. The duration of completing a basket varies – it can take up to six weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the project. For instance, a small vase can be finished in as little as one day.

What does she love about basketry?
Janis’s love for basketry is palpable. She cherishes contact with nature, using natural fibres, and the freedom to harvest her materials. For her, basketry is a deeply mindful craft where hand-eye coordination and a peaceful mind converge to create stunning decorative and functional objects. It’s not just about the end product but the entire process she finds truly fulfilling.
Pine needle basketry making requires only a few elements—a conventional needle, pine needles, and thread, making it an uncomplicated hobby to pursue. The materials can be taken anywhere, and just like knitting, you can work on your projects while in the company of others.

Another good thing about using pine needles is that they are soft, gentle on the hands, non-toxic, and easy to manipulate. And if that’s not enough, their long-lasting smell is very satisfying.

If you want to learn a new craft, Janis’s pine needle basketry workshop in Vankleek Hill is coming soon. You can check the following information and contact here to know more:

The workshop will be held on Sunday, July 7th, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Art and Dream Studio in Vankleek Hill. The cost is $100 per person and includes all materials. Children over eight can attend with a parent for $120 per family.

During Janis Goad’s pine needle basketry workshop, you will embark on a journey to create a one-of-a-kind basket from scratch. An experienced instructor, Janis, will supply all the necessary materials, including pine needles and thread. You will learn the art of preparing the pine needles, coiling them, and stitching them together to craft a unique and functional basket, all under Janis’s expert guidance.

This is a rare opportunity to learn a new skill, unwind, and create something beautiful. With limited spaces available, we encourage you to secure your spot at the workshop soon!

You can register for the workshop by messaging Janis at her email, [email protected] or calling her at 250-299-1343. You can also find more information about the work on her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/fairwindsfibres

 

 

 

A New Chapter: The Review Welcomes James Morgan as the New Lead

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Local newspapers play a crucial role in keeping the community connected and informed in small towns. They serve as the town’s pulse, delivering essential information about local events, news, and developments. More than just a source of news, they also foster community engagement by spotlighting local businesses and individuals, creating a sense of belonging and pride among residents.

These newspapers also allow local voices to be heard, amplifying community members’ concerns, achievements, and stories. By featuring letters to the editor, opinion pieces, and community contributions, they showcase diverse perspectives, sparking dialogue and understanding.

Saint Eugene, Vankleek Hill, Hawkesbury, Prescott and Russell, Lachute, and Point Fortune, among other communities, rely on The Review newspaper as an essential news source. Dedicated journalists like James Morgan uphold the publication’s reputation for delivering reliable and relevant news. In May 2024, after six years of loyal service, Morgan assumed the role of co-owner and co-publisher of The Review alongside Stephen Yantzi. Their commitment to quality journalism ensures that the newspaper remains vital to community life and provides readers with an exciting and comprehensive perspective on the world around them.

James Morgan is a journalist with twenty years of experience who brings a unique perspective to his role. Driven by a passion for social issues, community well-being, and the power of storytelling, he is a committed advocate for delivering trustworthy news to the region’s residents.

While journalism is often associated with reporting events that uplift and inspire, James understands the importance of covering complex stories touching people’s hearts. From tragedies to community challenges, James believes in the journalist’s duty to spark change and prevent future crises, even when faced with emotional challenges. He considers that a good journalist has to be an excellent listener, and he puts his hands to work as he shares the good and bad news equally.

 

James Morgan, new co-owner and co-publisher of The Review

 

With an average of 12,000 weekly readers, the newspaper relies on its community’s active support and engagement to prosper. Readers are not just news consumers but active participants in the newspaper’s mission to inform, connect, and inspire positive change. Readers’ support through subscriptions, donations, advertising, and contributing their voices is essential in maintaining The Review as a reliable news source and a space for community involvement.

The challenges of local newspapers in small towns in 2024 are numerous and complex. One significant challenge is the shifting landscape of media consumption. With the rise of digital platforms and social media, traditional print newspapers must adapt to meet the changing preferences of their audience. This often requires investing in digital infrastructure, developing online content, and finding new ways to engage readers in a digital environment. Economic challenges also pose a significant hurdle for small-town newspapers.

Adapting to changes in advertising revenue and addressing the costs associated with print production and distribution are ongoing concerns for local newspapers. Another challenge is maintaining relevance and credibility in an era of misinformation and fake news. Small-town newspapers must work diligently to uphold journalistic standards, fact-checking, and ethical reporting practices to distinguish themselves as trustworthy sources of information.

Sustaining reader engagement and community support is crucial for the survival of small-town newspapers. Building and maintaining a loyal readership, encouraging community participation, and finding innovative ways to involve readers in the news production process are ongoing challenges. Overcoming these obstacles often requires a combination of creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the local community and its evolving needs.

James Morgan holds his team in high regard, acknowledging their exceptional intelligence, unwavering support, and their ability to generate fresh ideas and forge meaningful connections that yield tangible results. With a deep understanding of the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving technological landscape and the economic pressures faced by local newspapers, the team consistently invests great effort in exploring innovative promotional strategies. This proactive approach is aimed at not only engaging readers but also cultivating strategic partnerships with local businesses. By doing so, they seek to help these enterprises adapt, thrive, and maximize their reach in an ever-changing digital environment.

Their dedication to exploring new promotional strategies signifies a forward-thinking approach that embraces the digital era while staying true to the core values of community journalism. Their efforts not only seek to ensure the sustained relevance and impact of the newspaper but also to provide valuable avenues for local businesses to connect with their target audience. In the face of challenging economic circumstances, the team’s proactive stance underscores their commitment to upholding the vitality of the local newspaper as a crucial medium for community engagement and information dissemination.

Fueled by curiosity, the entire team is dedicated to examining local issues, providing clarity, dispelling uncertainty, and highlighting the shared experiences that unite the community. The Review is more than just a newspaper; it’s a platform for your voices to be heard, your issues to be addressed, and for you to stay informed and connected. Through its weekly printed publication and digital presence, the newspaper serves as your community engagement hub, offering a space to interact with local stories, share your perspectives, and contribute to shaping the narrative of your community.

Readers are encouraged to actively participate in shaping their community’s narrative. The support of local journalism allows residents to ensure their perspectives are acknowledged, their concerns are addressed, and their community remains well-informed and interconnected for future generations.

If you want to learn more, you can visit their website, follow them on Facebook, message them for subscriptions or advertising, or share your story or ideas.

Contact:

The Review

76 Main Street East, P.O. Box 160, Vankleek Hill, ON K0B 1R0

Tel.: 613-678-3327 | Toll-Free: 1-877-678-3327 | Fax: 1-866-562-0472

For general inquiries: [email protected]

Subscription: [email protected]

Accounts: [email protected]

Wednesday June 19th Writing Workshop with special guest journalist Philip Oddi

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Don’t miss out on our exciting writing workshop featuring the talented freelance journalist and writer Philip Oddi! Philip will share insights into his current projects and offer valuable writing tips. Join us on Wednesday, June 19th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Creating Centre in Vankleek Hill (11 34-ON, Vankleek Hill).
 
This workshop is open to all, and we invite you to contribute a pay-what-you-can donation. It’s a great opportunity to expand your writing skills, We’re looking forward to seeing you there!
More about our guest:

Philip Oddi, a distinguished writer and researcher, holds an MA in Religion, Culture and Global Justice from Wilfrid Laurier University (2019) and a BA with honours in English and Religion & Culture from the same university (2018). He has also conducted research as a Graduate Student at York University in Humanities and the Graduate Diploma of International & Security Studies program.

Philip Oddi’s current writing and research interests span a wide range of fascinating topics, including Religion, Culture, Secularism, Islamophobia, Conceptions of Free Speech, as well as Punk/Punk-Rock culture and music. His diverse interests are sure to pique your curiosity and inspire your own writing journey.

We Make a Living by What We Get, But We Make a Life by What We Give – Support the VKH Food Bank

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In the wise words of Winston Churchill, ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ This sentiment resonates deeply, especially when we consider the selfless dedication of Mike McGurk and Jane Fantie. In their retirement years, they have chosen to give back to the community, inspiring us all with their noble actions.

After retiring, Mike took on the director role at the food bank on Main Street in Vankleek Hill. Jane joined him in his mission to help those in need, and together, they have been volunteering and collaborating with the community since 2020.

The food bank, situated in the same space as the Thrift store, may be small but has a big heart. Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the food bank continued to operate and serve an increasing number of needy families.

The food bank and thrift store are run entirely by volunteers, with around 40 dedicated individuals working tirelessly to ensure the community can access essential food items and clothing. Volunteers undergo food handling and waste management training, emphasizing their commitment to providing a safe and efficient service.
Around 50 clients arrive monthly to receive food baskets previously prepared according to the number of family members. Some use the services regularly, while others only occasionally. The food bank respects everyone’s privacy, and no one should be ashamed of requiring assistance. Minimum requirements, such as proof of residence, are asked to receive the food baskets.
In addition to providing essential food items, the food bank also offers a sense of community and support to those in need. On Wednesdays, the Creating Centre hosts a gathering from 12 to 1 pm, where individuals can enjoy warm soup, comforting coffee, and the company of others in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

The food bank receives donations from local stores like Foodland, local churches, and the Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute, allowing them to focus on other matters. Fundraisers are also held to ensure the food bank can continue its vital work in the community.

Donating to food banks is not just a kind act; it’s a crucial step in ensuring that vulnerable members of our community have access to nutritious food and alleviating food waste. Food insecurity affects millions worldwide, and by supporting food banks, we can help alleviate hunger and provide essential resources to those in need. In addition, supporting food banks can help reduce food waste by redistributing excess food to those who need it most.

Food waste is a significant issue globally. A significant amount of perfectly good food is discarded while many individuals and families struggle to access an adequate food supply. By supporting food banks, we help address food insecurity and reduce food waste by ensuring that food is redirected to those who can benefit from it most.

Your help is not just appreciated; it’s vital. In a world where giving back is more important than ever, the work of volunteers, like those at the Vankleek Hill food bank, serves as a shining example of the impact that a small act of kindness can have on a community. Let us all take inspiration from their dedication and generosity and remember that true fulfillment comes from what we give, not what we receive.

For those needing assistance, the food bank can be reached at 613-678-8119 or via email at [email protected].

Donations of non-perishable items are greatly appreciated and can be sent to the food bank’s address:
124 Main St E, PO Box 23 Vankleek Hill, ON K0B 1R0

Monetary donations can be made by entransfer to the following email: [email protected]

Thrift Store donations on store hours: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 1 pm-4 pm * Wed 5 pm-7 pm * used clothing, toys and small household appliances

The food bank operates by appointment only * Call 613-678-8119 for an appointment.

Volunteers request information by email: [email protected]
Or by phone: 613-678-8119

We invite you to come and hang out at the Creating Centre of VKH on Wednesdays from 12 to 1 pm, to share a plate of soup, coffee and nutritious snacks. Everyone is welcome. Spread the word!

Trash and Treasure Day: A Celebration of Sustainability

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I’m a newcomer to Ontario, and I have always been a collector at heart, not for the monetary value of items but for the stories they carry, their beauty, and also because I’m a poet and a nostalgic person. I recently stumbled upon the concept of Trash and Treasure Day, and I am thrilled to see what marvels residents have to offer.

 

If you, like me, are new in town or have never heard of this, you should read a little about this event and then go check out this outdoor super-sale! 

 

Trash and Treasure Day, a truly unique event, has been a staple in Vankleek Hill since 2000. Unlike your typical yard sale, it’s a community-wide gathering that brings together homeowners, church groups, and organizations from the region. This event is more than just a day of buying and selling; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the community, discover treasures, and contribute to sustainability.

 

The idea of reusing and buying second-hand items is highly appealing. Not only does it help reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices, but it also allows us to give new life to items with sentimental value. Recycling and repurposing goods is a responsible choice and a way to embrace a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.

 

The Vankleek Hill Business and Merchant Association spearheads this well-structured, community-driven initiative. Their goal is to make this day a memorable experience for all while extending its reach beyond our local community, drawing in visitors from neighbouring regions, and advocating for sustainability.

 

This massive yard sale offers a unique opportunity for locals to declutter their homes. The sale will start early on Saturday, June 1st, and continue through the day, rain or shine! If you look forward to joining as a vendor, contact the Vankleek Hill Business and Merchant Association for more information at [email protected]

 

In addition to being a source of entertainment and nostalgia, Trash and Treasure Day reminds us of the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling in our daily lives. Whether you are a seasoned collector or looking to find something special, mark your calendars for this sustainable and community-driven event. Join in the fun, discover unique finds, and contribute to a greener future for all.

 

Gratitude for Earth Parade, May show and Tree Giveaway Event in VKH

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Four years ago, young Charlie won a climate change contest in Vankleek Hill with a simple yet impactful proposal: plant ten trees. Today, at the age of 10, Charlie, with the help of his family, has turned this small initiative into a significant project. What started as ten trees has now grown to 120, and on May 19th, they will be giving away these trees at the Gratitude for Earth parade in Vankleek Hill.

The event will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at the Creating Centre. The corner will be adorned with stunning paper-mache puppets that will march along Main Street in Vankleek Hill. During the event, Charlie will have his own booth offering lemonade, and attendees can visit him and his friends to adopt a tree to take home. 

 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Susie Fairbrother, Charlie’s grandmother, who shared the inspiration behind this initiative. The project aims to encourage tree planting, combat deforestation, and fight climate change. Among the varieties available for adoption are silver maple, red spruce, red pine, and white pine.

During our conversation, I asked Susie what individuals can do to combat climate change starting at home. She provided some practical suggestions, including planting trees to keep the air clean, participating in community gardens, being mindful of composting and recycling, and opting for second-hand clothes to reduce waste and emissions.

What do we know about deforestation? 

 

Deforestation is the clearing, destruction, or removal of forests or trees from an area, typically to convert the land for agricultural or commercial use. It can have significant negative impacts on the environment, biodiversity, and climate.

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some key points about deforestation:

1. Environmental Impact: Deforestation can lead to loss of habitat for wildlife, disruption of ecosystems, and soil erosion. It can also contribute to climate change by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

 

2. Biodiversity Loss: Forests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. When forests are cleared, many species lose their habitat and can become endangered or extinct.

 

3. Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. When trees are cut down or burned, this stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

 

4. Water Cycle Disruption: Trees play a crucial role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing and releasing water through transpiration. Deforestation can disrupt this cycle, leading to changes in local weather patterns and potentially causing droughts or floods.

 

5. Indigenous Communities: Deforestation can also negatively impact indigenous communities who rely on forests for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Their land rights and way of life can be threatened by deforestation.

 

Efforts to combat deforestation include conservation initiatives, sustainable forestry practices, reforestation projects, and policies to protect forests and promote sustainable land use. It is important for individuals, governments, and businesses to work together to address the root causes of deforestation and protect our planet’s forests for future generations.

The Gratitude for Earth parade in Vankleek Hill will form part of the May show (10 am to 4 pm, Main Street VKH, Sunday, May 19th). Everyone is invited to dress up in fun nature-themed costumes, so join us for a fun family day with music, dance, delicious food, and arts and crafts from local artists. 

 

 

 

 

 

Support Susie, Charlie, and Mother Earth by taking a tree home and positively impacting our environment. Let’s come together to protect and preserve our planet for a greener and healthier future!

 

Follow Charlie and his environmental project here: 

https://www.facebook.com/CharliesTreesVKH

 

Creative Sparks: An art show by the students of Art and Dream Studio

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The American painter Georgia O’Keefe once beautifully expressed the power of art, stating, “I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way since I have no words for.”

Art, with its vibrant tints and detailed forms, holds a profound significance in our lives. As winter’s icy grip begins to loosen and we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring, the art school, Art and Dream Studio, located in Vankleek Hill, invites you to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration.

Stephanie Pete is a dedicated artist and valued community member. She balances her roles as a teacher at the art school and her work at The creating center, along with other commitments. Stephanie organizes an engaging exhibition that highlights the skills of her students of varying ages. Titled “Creative Sparks,” this exhibition exemplifies the transformative influence of art and serves as proof of the transformative power of art. But what exactly does art spark in us? What light does art bring to society? The act of creation serves as a switch that illuminates our spirits and sheds light on the world around us.

Each painting displayed at the show is a symbolic flame, radiating warmth and brilliance. Through collaborative efforts and shared passion, the students at the art school come together to build a collective beacon of creativity. The studio offers a diverse range of classes for both adults and children, including painting, drawing, and immersive camp days for young artists.

In each class, participants are guided to explore new techniques and mediums, fostering a nurturing environment for self-discovery and artistic growth. The art school’s exhibition at the Arbor Gallery invites you to witness the magic of art firsthand. Embrace the beauty of art, let it torch your imagination, and discover the endless possibilities it holds for your spirit and society as a whole.

The showcase will be open to the public from February 29th to March 31 at the Arbor Gallery:

36 Home Ave, Vankleek Hill

Art and Dream studio, address and contact:

27 High St, Vankleek Hill, ON K0B 1R0

+1 (613) 854-5226

[email protected]

The Growth of Parachute Farm: Embracing Organic Farming and Community connections

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Welcome to the world of Parachute Farm, where the seeds of a sustainable dream are nurtured with passion and dedication. In the landscapes of Vankleek Hill, Maggie Winchester and her husband, Mattson Griffiths, have embarked on a journey of growth and transformation, embracing the world of organic farming and the vibrant community spirit that defines their mission.

Armed with a background in Environmental Studies, a deep-rooted passion for farming, and more than fifteen years of experience in agriculture, Maggie, along with her partner Mattson (who has a degree in Farm management and technology), established Parachute Farm with a vision to cultivate the land ethically and produce high-quality vegetables. The couple shares fifteen years of experience, which helped them prepare to strat their own operation.

 

Organic farming is more than a method of cultivation; it is a philosophy that honours nature’s delicate balance. Organic growers like Maggie and Mattson at Parachute Farm nurture the land, protect the environment, and provide consumers with wholesome, nutrient-rich produce by prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability.

The benefits of organic farming extend far beyond the dinner table. By supporting organic agriculture, consumers contribute to cleaner air, water, and soil by reducing their exposure to harmful toxins and promoting animal welfare. Organic farming also plays a crucial role in combating climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil and promoting agroecological practices.

In addition to the environmental benefits, buying local produce from farms like Parachute Farm has numerous advantages for consumers and communities. Locally sourced food is fresher, tastier, and more nutritious, as it is harvested at peak ripeness and travels shorter distances to reach your plate. 

Individuals invest in the local economy by supporting local farmers, creating jobs, preserving agricultural heritage, and building stronger connections.

Parachute Farm is a non-certified organic farm, but its commitment to organic principles and local sourcing is imprinted in every operation. From cultivating a diverse array of vegetables using sustainable practices to forging partnerships with neighbouring businesses and farmers, Maggie and Mattson are dedicated to providing their customers with an enriching farm-to-table experience.

 

If you’re enthusiastic about experiencing the delights of Parachute Farm’s offerings, you can find Maggie, Mattson, and their collection of products at the Vankleek Hill farmers market in June. Soon, you will also be able to find them at The Marsh’s flea market in Saint Eugene (biweekly, starting in June).

For those who prefer the comfort of online communication, reaching out to them via email is a simple way to stay updated on their latest offerings.

Contact Information and interesting websites:

Email: Parachute Farm: [email protected]

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094583452173&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Instagram: @parachute_farm

 

Marsh’s Flea Market (1081 Labrosse Street – Saint Eugene, starting 25th May)

Vankleek Hill Farmers Market:

https://vankleekhillfarmersmarket.ca/vendor/parachute-farm