0426- Global Heroes - April 2026

RAYE MOCIOIU

The modern news cycle moves fast—so fast that even the most urgent global crises can begin to feel distant, reduced to headlines and statistics. But behind every emergency are individual lives: parents, students, artists, and families working to hold onto dignity amid uncertainty. When the world starts to feel far away, sometimes the most powerful response is to move closer.

For decades, George Stroumboulopoulos has built his career on doing exactly that: getting closer to stories, to people, and increasingly, to the front lines of global humanitarian work. As one of the most active Goodwill Ambassadors for the World Food Programme, the renowned Canadian broadcaster has shifted from documenting crises to standing within them, using his platform to spotlight hunger, resilience, and the human realities too often lost behind the news cycle.

In conversation with Global Heroes, Stroumboulopoulos reflects on what he’s witnessed in the field, from floodravaged communities in Pakistan to classrooms in Syria, what it means to move from observer to participant, and why the world must continue to see people as more than just headlines in a world competing for attention.

Global Heroes: You’ve spent years telling stories, but your relationship with WFP began when you chose to step directly into humanitarian work. What first drew you to the organization, and what made you say yes at that moment in your life?

George Stroumboulopoulos (GS): Early in my career, I only had opportunities to tell stories from the outside looking in, and for a long time, that felt fine. It felt useful. You try to reflect something honestly and hope it lands. But after a while, I realized there was a gap between witnessing and actually being part of the response. I didn’t want to just talk about crises anymore. I wanted to understand what it looks like to work with them every day. Not everyone has the opportunity to do this, but I was lucky enough to. And that luck was compounded by and with the people I worked with and for at the time. We shared values, and collectively we committed to the approach. This is key. I am surrounded by people with incredible hearts and minds, and we all look for meaningful ways to serve. What drew me to the World Food Programme was the straightforward nature of the work. Food isn’t symbolic. People either have it or they don’t. And once you strip away the politics, opinions, and noise, that reality is hard to argue with. Saying yes didn’t feel dramatic or idealistic. It felt practical. Like, this is something that works, and if I had the chance to support it in a real way, then I should.

We’ve heard you describe WFP

GS: Most of us only see disasters through the media—floods, earthquakes, conflicts—and it can feel overwhelming and distant. But on the ground with WFP, you see people working together to deliver emergency aid to those who need it most or to help communities rebuild. It’s practical, and it’s deeply human.

Before becoming a Goodwill Ambassador for WFP, I witnessed the organization in action in Darfur, and it genuinely shifted how I see the UN. It showed me that beyond the speeches and bureaucracy, the UN can be agile, field-focused, and lifesaving. At its best, it’s about people in need and our shared responsibility to show up for one another.

Let’s talk about your experiences in Syria. There’s a tendency for the world to reduce the country to conflict statistics and political headlines. What did you see on the ground that contradicts the way Syrians are usually portrayed?

GS: What struck me immediately was how incomplete the Western narrative is. Often, the world rushes to reduce people and places like Syria to rubble, numbers, and despair. On the ground, I saw humour, pride, creativity, and generational resilience. Surviving, adapting, and living require so much, but it never seemed to come at the expense of kindness and generosity. Certainly, the damage caused by conflict is there; to me, the most powerful stories weren’t the kinds you’d find in headlines. They were quiet: parents making impossible choices, teenagers dreaming about music and art, families finding ways to celebrate small joys amid uncertainty. All very important reminders that the framing of a crisis needs to stand up to rigour. In most cases, these are not abstract emergencies, but millions of individual lives unfolding under extraordinary pressure. The expression that comes from that pressure is so real. I came across a mother who was a judo champion and a young man drumming his heavy metal blast beats in his Damascus apartments. That, in particular, brought me joy. Metal is a universal fuel for expression, and it revealed something essential about Syrian culture: it’s alive, complex, and deeply human. Creativity doesn’t disappear in war… it adapts.

You met Zuha, a World Food Programme associate, at a pivotal point in her life. Once a recipient of food assistance, she’s now part of the organization delivering it. What stood out to you about her sense of purpose, and why do stories like hers matter?

GS: Meeting Zuha was especially powerful. Her sense of purpose was unmistakable. She understood the impact of food assistance not in theory, but in her body. To see her move from receiving support to becoming a WFP staff member and being part of the system that provides it

dignity, they don’t just survive, they contribute and lead. I will be forever grateful that so many people let us shine a light on their lives.

Children in war-torn regions have grown up knowing little else but crisis. Food and shelter make a tangible difference in their lives, but investing in education builds their futures. How has prolonged disruption affected their access to education?

GS: Prolonged disruption has been devastating to education. Schools close, reopen, close again. These are little children we are talking about. Hunger makes learning nearly impossible. When you’re worried about your next meal, reading doesn’t stand a chance. Investing in education alongside food and shelter is how you prevent an entire generation from being locked out of their future. Without serious intervention and ultimately protection, the damage of conflict stretches far beyond the present.

In Aleppo, I watched the WFP school feeding programs unfold—from supplies delivered to meals made to children receiving what, for some, was their only substantial meal all day. These programs reach millions globally, doing more than just filling stomachs; they're filling minds and futures, providing the foundation for education and growth. It's incredible how something so simple can be so transformative: a meal that improves health and concentration and creates the conditions where education can actually take root.

You’re widely recognized as one of WFP’s most active ambassadors. What drives you to stay so deeply involved?

GS: Modern life delivers an avalanche of crises competing for attention. When that happens, hunger is at risk of becoming background noise. But hunger is never just about food. It’s about health, education, stability, and peace. When hunger is ignored, everything else unravels. Keeping it in public consciousness isn’t about charity; it’s about justice, and it is solvable. Letting it fade from view is a choice we can’t afford to make. What keeps me involved is knowing that this isn’t theoretical. The impact is immediate and measurable. People eat. Kids show up to school. Families get a little breathing room. Once you’ve met people whose lives hinge on something as basic as a meal, you stop asking whether the work still matters. You already know it does. Staying involved feels like the natural response to that knowledge.

Many Canadians support WFP but may not fully understand the real-world impact of their contributions. How would you describe the journey of that support and the difference it makes?

GS: Canadians' contributions travel farther than they might imagine. That support becomes meals in classrooms, stability for families, time and space for people to breathe and plan beyond survival. It’s not generosity in the void; it’s concrete impact. Canadians have spent significant energy of late exploring what it means to be who we are. I have always believed that part of our identity lies in how we show up for others, and I have seen evidence of Canadian values all over the world. Crisis doesn’t erase humanity; it reveals it. What they want isn’t pity, it’s the chance to live with dignity. That is something we can all play a part in. Learn more about the work of the World Food Programme and how you can support efforts to fight global

On Air, Off Guard, and Opening Up: The Power of Hope at Ontario Shores

Kevin will never forget his first panic attack. It happened live, on air.

For someone working in a public-facing role, the expectation to look right, say the right thing, and appear perfectly composed is a constant pressure, but in that moment, Kevin couldn’t hide what was happening.

“One complaint can outweigh a thousand compliments,” Kevin lamented. “People forget that those in the public eye are human too, with emotions, struggles, and vulnerabilities.”

The following day, Kevin decided to speak openly about the experience. What he didn’t expect was the overwhelming response: more than 15,000 emails from viewers sharing their own struggles with anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.

So many people had been living quietly with mental health challenges, afraid to speak up.

“That response changed me,” Kevin said. “It made me realize just how many people were suffering in silence.”

Mental health advocates have long known that when one person speaks honestly about their struggles, it gives others permission to do the same. At Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, a public hospital dedicated to providing specialized mental health care, patient stories are a powerful way to break the stigma around mental illness.

Across Ontario and beyond, many people still hesitate to seek help because of fear or shame. By sharing real experiences, Ontario Shores helps remind people that they are not alone.

THE TURNING POINT

That day in 2006 marked a turning point for Kevin, but he believes his mental health journey should have started much earlier. Like many people, Kevin grew up in a time when mental health simply wasn’t discussed openly. Stigma, misunderstanding, and silence prevented many from

seeking help or even recognizing what they were experiencing.

After his first panic attack, Kevin began therapy and started medication. He was eventually diagnosed with severe depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and unipolar depression, the most common form of depression. Over time, he learned that recovery rarely comes from a single solution.

“It was never just one thing that helped,” he explained. “It was the combination of therapy, education, support, and acceptance There is no miracle cure for mental illness. It’s a lifelong journey of understanding that your mental health will always be part of who you are—but it can, and will, get better. The more you know, the better you can cope.”

FINDING PURPOSE AT ONTARIO SHORES

Kevin’s mental health journey changed his life in many ways, but joining the team at Ontario Shores has been especially rewarding.

“When the opportunity arose to join the team at Ontario Shores, I didn’t hesitate,” he said.

Located in Whitby, Ontario Shores is recognized for its innovative and compassionate approach to treatment, research, and recovery. The organization serves thousands of individuals each year through inpatient and outpatient programs that address a wide range of mental health conditions. The hospital’s approach focuses on holistic recovery, supporting patients not only clinically, but also emotionally,

socially, and psychologically.

For Kevin, being part of this environment has been deeply meaningful. Every day, he works alongside clinicians, researchers, and advocates dedicated to improving mental health outcomes for patients and families. Having had firsthand experience with the power of patient stories, he also knows that openness is essential to fostering hope.

“Still today, we’re unlearning old beliefs,” he says. “We should be doing the opposite of what we were taught: to share, to cry, to listen, and to support one another without judgment.”

The more conversations society has about mental health, the easier it becomes for people to access the help they need.

REVOLUTIONARY CARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Ontario Shores has become a leader in mental health care by combining clinical expertise, innovative treatments, and patient-centred care.

The hospital provides specialized programs addressing conditions including depression and mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, and geriatric mental health challenges, along with many more. Through research, education, and clinical practice, Ontario Shores continually works to improve treatment approaches and expand access to care.

But medical expertise is just one factor—what truly defines the organization is its commitment to dignity, compassion, and recovery for every patient. By continuing to share stories, support research, and expand access to care, organizations like Ontario Shores are helping reshape how society understands mental health.

“The word I hear most often here is hope,” Kevin shared. “And that, to me, is the heart of it all.”

Hope is what allows people facing mental illness to believe that recovery is possible. It’s what encourages someone to seek treatment, to open up to a loved one, or to take the first step toward healing.

“As long as there is hope,” he continued, “there is a path forward.”

HELP MAKE HOPE POSSIBLE

Mental illness can affect anyone—friends, family members, colleagues, and neighbours. But with the right support, recovery is possible. Ontario Shores continues to expand programs, research, and patient care to ensure more people can access life-changing mental health services.

You can help make that possible.

Help prevent the most devastating consequences of mental illness. Donate today: ontarioshores.ca/donate

Recording a Generation: The Race to Preserve Canada’s Second World War Voices

RAYE MOCIOIU

Our lives are a collection of stories, full of experiences gained over a lifetime that make us who we are. Some live on for generations, others as cheerful or heart-pulling anecdotes, and others still are all but forgotten.

The stories of Canada’s Second World War veterans are among the most consequential in our nation’s history, but the average age of a Second World War veteran is 100 years old—soon, there will be none left to tell their stories firsthand, only medals tucked away in drawers and black-and-white photographs with fading edges. It is in this narrowing window of time that filmmaker Eric Brunt has dedicated himself to listening, recording, and preserving the voices of Canada’s last remaining veterans before they are lost forever.

HISTORY THROUGH STORIES

Canada entered the Second World War on September 10, 1939, and did not return to peace until August 15, 1945. In those six years, more than 1.1 million Canadians served. Statistics tell part of that story, but the rest lives in memory. Over 45,000 were killed, 55,000 were wounded, and countless others returned home with scars and haunting memories, both of which would last a lifetime—or longer, if someone cared to document them.

Over the past seven years, Brunt has interviewed and filmed more than 500 Canadian Second World War veterans, capturing over 700 hours of firsthand testimony. It began when his grandfather passed away while Brunt was studying film in university. Only afterward did Brunt realize that he had no record of his grandfather’s wartime experiences. How many other stories had been lost the same way?

That question became the foundation of what is now

known as The Eric Brunt Collection, a landmark oral history archive produced by MELKI Films, and preserved as part of the Canadian War Museum oral history collections. Hundreds of these interviews are already publicly accessible through the Museum's collections database, with more being transcribed and catalogued so they can serve as a permanent resource for students, scholars, and future generations.

There’s more to war than battles and dates. When our veterans pass, the statistics won’t tell us their stories. To that end, Brunt’s interviews aren’t retellings of official reports—those already exist in textbook summaries. These interviews are intimate, like sitting down with a relative to hear a story from their youth. In between moments of humility and reflection, and alongside voices that crack when recalling lost friends, Brunt finds stories of fear and resilience in the lived experiences of those who were there.

Supporting People, Strengthening Communities: Empowering Those With Vision Loss

When Karen Mootoo lost most of her vision due to Retinitis Pigmentosa in her 40s, staying connected to the world around her became less about eyesight and more about access—to the right tools, training, and community.

The adjustment wasn’t simple. But over time, Mootoo learned she could still fully engage with the world around her with the right supports in place.

She saw that firsthand when she connected with BALANCE for Blind Adults, a small Ontario non-profit that has been empowering those living with sight loss for more than four decades.

Founded in 1984, BALANCE for Blind Adults supports adults who are blind or partially sighted to live independent, dignified lives. The organization provides personalized assistive technology and mobility training along with mental health supports, life skills instruction, and community-based group programming. The focus is practical and grounded in lived experience, helping people develop skills they use every day.

For Mootoo, that included assistive technology training that allowed her to reconnect with former colleagues on a whole new level once a BALANCE instructor taught her to use AI tools that generate vivid photo descriptions. Rather than ignoring or requesting details about the images her friends share in their group chat, Mootoo said she can now engage with them directly and fully participate in the conversation once again.

BALANCE’s work increasingly extends beyond individual instruction into community spaces, sharing practical knowledge with organizations that want to be more accessible but aren’t sure where to start.

That approach enabled Mootoo to participate in a recent pilot program that relocated BALANCE’s accessible boxing class from a basement rental to a fully equipped boxing gym.

And being there gives us experiences that make us feel like we belong.”

The impact didn’t end when the pilot wrapped. The gym now has the knowledge and confidence to support blind athletes who walk in off the street. A similar pilot is now underway at a Toronto spin studio, applying the same principles.

VOICES OF THE UNHEARD

Many of the veterans Brunt interviews live quietly, far from public attention. Few had ever been filmed before, and some had never spoken openly about their wartime experiences at all. These interviews are a final opportunity to bear witness, to say the names of friends who never came home, and to share memories long carried alone.

As Brunt often tells his interviewees, remembering names matters. Saying them aloud preserves them in history; forgetting them risks erasing their sacrifice.

MADELINE SHAVALIER: COURAGE BEYOND THE FRONT LINES

The late Lieutenant Nursing

Sister Madeline Shavalier was the only woman Brunt met who survived the sinking of a ship. In 1943, Maddy and her fellow nurses were en route to Italy when German forces attacked their vessel. Forced into lifeboats in the darkness of the Mediterranean, they waited in silence for hours, unsure whether rescue or capture would come first.

“It was pitch dark,” Maddy remembered. “You never heard such a quiet group of nurses in your life. We were too scared to speak.”

Eventually, a light appeared on the horizon—an American ship. The rescue that followed became the largest at-sea rescue operation of the war, saving 1,675 nurses and soldiers. Maddy went on to serve in mosquito-ridden regions of Italy, where malaria posed a constant threat. She treated Allied soldiers and, on one occasion, a wounded German patient, whom she cared for with the same professionalism as her own men, despite threats from others.

“There were hardships,” she said, “but they were valuable years. I learned a lot about life.”

NOEL BUTCHER:

THE FORGOTTEN BATTLE

The late Noel Butcher was just 25 years old when Victory in Europe was declared. His war took him to the Italian Campaign and into one of the deadliest and least-remembered battles in Canadian history: the Battle of Ortona.

On Christmas Day, 1943, his unit was sent to stop a German patrol attempting to encircle another regiment’s headquarters. What Noel wryly referred to as a “Christmas party” ended when shrapnel from a potato masher grenade tore into his leg.

Three days later, Ortona was liberated, Canada’s first major standalone victory of the war. Yet it came at an enormous cost, one largely forgotten by Canadian history. Today, just five kilometres from Ortona, the Moro River Canadian War Cemetery still remembers, and holds 1,375 Canadian graves, one for each young life cut short in December 1943.

Educational and Theatrical Distribution of The Eric Brunt Collection is available both nationally and internationally through Melki Distribution. Brunt is currently developing a featurelength documentary titled Under Fire, drawing from some of his most powerful discoveries. As long as there are stories left untold, he intends to keep listening.

For six weeks in 2025, Mootoo trained alongside nine other legally blind participants in a welcoming, mainstream setting, using real equipment under the guidance of coaches skilled in verbal instruction.

The program brought participants into spaces where they hadn’t always been welcome, while also showing—in real time—how simple and meaningful real inclusion can be.

“When people see us in spaces they’re used to occupying, they realize we share their interests and passions,” Mootoo said. “They see that we have fun, that we can do the same activities with tweaks that are probably simpler than they think.

BALANCE for Blind Adults' community-focused approach also informed the development of WorkingBlind.ca, an employment resource hub for jobseekers with visual disabilities and those supporting them. Rather than placing people in jobs, the site focuses on education and clarity—offering guidance and real-world examples for employers, jobseekers, and service providers. The goal is to reduce uncertainty by demonstrating what accessibility looks like in practice and showing what’s possible in the modern workplace.

Nothing at BALANCE occurs without input from people with lived experience of sight loss. Individuals with varying degrees of vision work throughout the organization, which is now led by a blind CEO for the first time in its history.

That perspective helps BALANCE design programs that reflect real needs, while donor support allows the organization to expand training and community education that benefits everyone. Even small donations help BALANCE launch and expand innovative programs, and give more people access to training, support, and community.

Learn more or donate at BALANCEfba.org/donate

One Building at a Time: Supporting Mid-Tier Buildings Transition

The places we move through every day don’t always feel like climate stories: an office lobby, a grocery store, a clinic, a school. Yet behind the scenes, building systems are constantly monitoring how much air to move, how much heating and cooling is needed, and how much energy to use to maintain healthy, comfortable conditions. When those systems aren’t optimized, we notice it fast: stuffy air, hot-and-cold swings, and rising costs and carbon emissions.

For more than a century, BOMA Canada has provided leadership to the commercial real estate industry and is widely recognized as its national voice. BOMA Enspire is a national, three-year program delivered by BOMA Canada, with support from Natural Resources Canada’s Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative (DRAI), focused on Canada’s small to mid-sized buildings. Launched at BOMEX, BOMA Canada’s national industry conference, in September 2024, Enspire helps Class B and C building teams improve energy performance today and prepare for deeper retrofits tomorrow.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Mid-sized buildings account for more than 65 per cent of Canada’s building stock, and they are often managed with lean teams and competing priorities. BOMA Enspire meets the sector where it is, with practical support to help reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and strengthen tenant comfort. Just as important, the program is designed to help owners and operators make smart decisions that protect the bottom line and build long-term value.

PROGRESS YOU CAN MEASURE

In 2025, BOMA Enspire backed that kind of momentum across Canada, funding 838 projects and impacting more than four million square metres of building space, through two groundwork initiatives, “Quick Start Audits,” followed by “Building Performance Excellence;” a

to Low-Carbon Operations

stepped approach designed to move buildings from insight to action. This funding supported practical improvements, smarter building operations, and the planning needed to take action and move confidently toward better building performance and deeper energy and carbon reductions.

As one voice from the program community put it, “These studies provide the foundation from which we can start to identify meaningful opportunities.”

Two project spotlights show what that looks like on the ground.

FROM GUESSWORK TO GAME PLAN

In Yellowknife, NWT, the team at Northview Properties manages seven buildings, and they knew the hardest part to improving their performance was deciding where to begin. With expert support from Catalys Labs and funding through BOMA Enspire’s Quick-Start Audit Initiative, they

gathered the data needed to identify realistic improvements and start moving forward. It’s a strong reminder that energy progress isn’t just for big city towers. It matters in smaller markets and everyday buildings, too.

At Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, a deep retrofit turned one of the campus’s largest energy consumers into a proof point. Led by Dalhousie’s facilities and sustainability team, with technical support from engineering and construction partners, the project transformed a 55-yearold library’s operating systems with significant results: utility costs dropped by about 50 per cent, and the building’s carbon footprint fell by more than half. That success helped spark the next wave of projects, including work on the Student Union building, now moving forward with support through Enspire’s Building Performance Excellence Initiative. Together, these stories show how

better data and targeted support can turn older buildings into high-impact wins.

THREE WAYS ENSPIRE MOVES BUILDINGS FORWARD

BOMA Enspire supports action in three clear lanes.

CONTINUED FUNDING SUPPORT

“Retrofit Ready”, the program’s final funding initiative, launched April 1, 2026, and supports four areas for eligible buildings: recommissioning and building optimization; energy monitoring and tracking systems; business-case development; and retrofit coordinators.

TRAINING THAT BUILDS CONFIDENCE

Enspire delivers resources and industry support through its Knowledge Centre, a growing library of case studies, tutorial videos, and recordings of free education sessions. Subsidized

Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) accredited certification courses are also offered, so more people can build low-carbon transition skills. Additionally, Enspire is developing a new Building Performance Standards Guide to help owners prepare for an evolving policy landscape.

BUILDING A TALENT POOL

In Toronto’s Liberty Village, Enspire has launched a pilot called EPICS, an immersive learning space that uses tools like virtual reality and digital twins to explore real building and retrofit scenarios. It is free and open to operators, trades, professionals, and job seekers.

Led by BOMA Canada Vice President Bala Gnanam, the team also brings practical decarbonization strategies to trade shows and energy-efficiency summits across Canada, while recognizing standout carbon and energy reductions through the national BOMA Enspire Awards. The 2026 award winners will be announced at BOMEX Ottawa 2026, BOMA Canada’s annual national building excellence summit, taking place September 22 to 24, 2026.

WHY IT MATTERS TO EVERYONE

At its core, the work is about sustainability in the everyday spaces in which Canadians live, work, and play. In commercial buildings, sustainability is a shared effort: owners and operators improve how systems run, tenants and occupants help identify comfort issues and day-to-day inefficiencies, and industry partners bring the tools and expertise to support upgrades. When those pieces come together, buildings perform better—reducing energy use and operating costs while improving comfort for the people inside.

The goals are ambitious for the commercial real estate industry’s emissions transformation, but with programs like BOMA Enspire, the path to decarbonization is one big step closer.

Learn more at bomaenspire.ca

Transforming commercial buildings. For a greener future.

For more than a century, BOMA Canada has earned its place as the trusted voice of Canada’s commercial real estate industry. Our vision is clear: a future where every building is sustainable, innovative, and operating at peak efficiency.

Small to mid-sized buildings, representing over 65% of Canada’s commercial building stock, are essential to achieving the nation’s carbon reduction goals. Their collective impact is significant, and the transformation, vital.

The BOMA Enspire program is designed to accelerate that transformation. By empowering owners and managers with the tools and support they need, the program inspires innovation and advances energy performance, ensuring these buildings are not only high performing, but also healthier, smarter, and more resilient for the future.

Sir David Attenborough to Mark 100th Birthday With Three New Shows

Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday will be celebrated with the launch of three new shows.

The TV legend reaches the milestone on May 8, and the BBC is marking the occasion with a week of special programming to honour his legacy, airing some of his classic wildlife series as well as a new documentary, Making Life on Earth: Attenborough’s Greatest Adventure , which charts the making of the 1979 BBC One programme.

Jack Bootle, head of commissioning, specialist factual at the BBC, said: “It’s impossible to overstate what Sir David Attenborough has given us.

“His programmes have not only defined Science and Natural History broadcasting, but they have also changed how we see our planet and our place within it.

“This special week is a celebration of an extraordinary milestone, and of a body of work that continues to inspire awe, curiosity, and care for the natural world.

“It’s also a moment for all of us at the BBC to say thank you to David—for his generosity, for his brilliance, and for a lifetime spent bringing the wonders of nature into our homes.”

Attenborough’s birthday week also includes the debut of his new five-part series, Secret Garden , which explores the hidden worlds of wildlife

within Britain’s gardens, with each episode taking place in a very different backyard across the UK.

A statement posted by the

BBC explained: “In Secret Garden , he’s turning his attention to Britain’s backyards.

“Over five episodes—set in five very different gardens

across the UK—David reveals the lives of the often charming, occasionally daring, always secretive animals that inhabit the hidden world right

on our doorsteps. Theirs is no cozy existence—even in these beautiful and seemingly genteel surroundings, the rules of the wild still operate.

“From pine martens in the Western Highlands to dormice in South Wales, swallows in the Lake District to otters in Oxfordshire and blue tits in Bristol, the series reveals not just a rich and surprising diversity of life but also how each species finds its own way to live alongside us.”

The BBC will also screen David Attenborough’s 100 Years on Planet Earth , a live event at London’s Royal Albert Hall featuring the BBC Concert Orchestra and a number of special guests.

During the week, the BBC will also air classic episodes from Attenborough’s shows, including Planet Earth II Seven Worlds , One Planet , Blue Planet II , Planet Earth III , Frozen Planet II , as well as his recent offering, Wild London , which debuted this year.

The Attenborough shows will all air on BBC One and stream on iPlayer the week of 8 May. The iPlayer will be packed with content, including a specially themed section with over 40 programmes.

BBC Radio stations will also join in during Attenborough’s birthday week, but the organization has yet to announce details of the plans.

5 Things to Consider When Choosing a School for Your Child

Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone for your child, and choosing the right elementary school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here are five key factors to help guide your choice.

1. FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER

2. MISSION AND VALUES

Choose a school whose values align with your family’s.

At Conseil scolaire Viamonde, our commitment is clear: to provide a first-class education in French while fostering respect,

Your first visit to a school can tell you a great deal. From the moment you walk through the doors, notice how you and your child are welcomed. Were you greeted with a smile? Did staff take the time to answer all your questions? Did the school principal and teachers interact with your child to help them feel at ease? A positive, caring environment sets the tone for your child’s entire school experience. Trust your instincts: first impressions are often right.

collaboration, leadership, and a strong sense of identity. We believe in nurturing both effort and achievement, helping every child grow academically, socially, and personally.

3. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND ACHIEVEMENT

Strong academic foundations will help your child succeed and reach their full potential. EQAO test results, for example, can be a good indicator of student success, even if your child is only at the beginning of their schooling. Choose an education system that supports academic achievements and prepares your child for long and fulfilling studies. Ranked number one in Ontario for student success, Viamonde schools have led the way for the past four years.

4. CHILDCARE SERVICES

For many families, the school day does not align perfectly with work hours. Accessible and reliable childcare services can make all the difference. Fortunately, Viamonde schools offer before and after-school programs. Ask around: some school-

based childcare services also accept young children during the day.

5. MENTAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Find out what support systems are offered by the school, and make sure they match your expectations. Your child will spend many formative years at school, so they deserve to feel safe and supported. Beyond academic performance, Viamonde schools make the well-being of students and staff a priority. We cultivate positive learning environments where children can build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Give your child the gift of a firstclass French-language education in a supportive and dynamic environment. Visit csviamonde.ca/ registration today to complete a pre-registration form and discover what sets Viamonde apart. Kindly note that French-language schools differ from French immersion programs, and admission is subject to meeting established eligibility criteria.

An EPIC Solution to Plastic Pollution

On remote shorelines along Canada’s Pacific coast, the tide often brings in unwelcome surprises. Alongside the expected shells and driftwood, there has been a surge of plastic debris washing ashore, including broken containers and other fragments of everyday products.

Over the last 60 years, global plastic production has grown exponentially. Inexpensive, lightweight, and durable, it is now used across a broad range of applications, from packaging and household goods to marine equipment. But the same durability that makes plastic so useful also makes it difficult to manage once its purpose is served.

Today, it’s estimated that more than 75 per cent of all plastics ever produced have become waste, much of it accumulating in landfills, rivers, and oceans.

Plastic pollution has been discovered everywhere from the deepest ocean trenches to mountain peaks more than 3,000 metres

above sea level. Along the way, it entangles wildlife, damages fragile ecosystems, and can even transport invasive species into sensitive habitats.

The good news is that this challenge is being met with growing momentum by non-profits, community partners, and businesses working to keep plastics out of nature and build responsible end-of-life pathways for what’s already there.

EPIC: THE BRIDGE BETWEEN CLEANUP AND A CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Founded in 2013, Ocean Legacy Foundation (OLF) is a Canadian non-profit organization helping drive that momentum forward, to end ocean plastic waste through practical, systems-based solutions.

OLF’s approach is delivered through EPIC, an integrated model built on four pillars: Education, Policy, Infrastructure, and Cleanup. Together, these

pillars link shoreline recovery to long-term solutions that keep plastic from cycling back into landfills and ecosystems. With EPIC in place, cleanup becomes more than a “one-and-done” effort. Plastic is collected, sorted, and assessed so it can be handled properly, then processed into new, long-lasting products instead of ending up in a landfill.

In 2025, OLF helped divert 2M+ pounds of recovered plastic away from landfills and coastal environments, supported 38+ kilometres of shoreline cleaned (with 35.5K+ pounds removed), and diverted 95 per cent of recovered material from landfills.

The Ocean Plastic Depot Network also grew to nearly 300 consistent users, making it easier for more communities and marine operators to take action. Where possible, recovered marine plastics can be turned into Legacy Plastic™, a recycled material used in durable items such as plastic lumber and

moulded goods. OLF’s Plastic Analysis Lab supports this work by testing and identifying different types of plastics, thereby improving quality and ensuring that recovered material can be recycled responsibly.

SCALING SOLUTIONS FOR COASTS AND COMMUNITIES

Not every coastline has the same capacity to respond. Some remote and coastal communities face sudden surges of debris, especially “ghost gear” (abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear), and may not have the equipment or waste systems needed to manage large volumes quickly.

OLF’s Plastic Pollution Emergency Response Facility model supports communities with rapid response, material recovery, and practical steps that make transportation and recycling possible, such as preparing and consolidating materials for efficient shipping

and handling. It’s designed to be repeatable, so other regions can adopt a proven approach rather than starting from scratch each time debris arrives with the tide.

Meanwhile, EPIC Academy helps everyday people understand the problem and be part of the solution. The program offers a 10-lesson learning series with quizzes and a digital Certificate of Completion, with a goal of educating one million people by 2027. In 2025, the Academy reached participants in 118+ countries, and OLF supported 28+ additional community cleanups.

Ultimately, the goal is to stop plastic from becoming pollution in the first place. That means pairing shoreline cleanups with real systems for sorting, processing, and keeping materials out of nature for good. It’s progress you can see—and something communities, businesses, and everyday people can be part of.

Find Your Place at Saint Mary’s University

At Saint Mary’s University (SMU) in Halifax, Nova Scotia, students do more than just earn degrees. They discover their passions, gain real-world experience, and join a supportive community dedicated to their success. SMU knows that education is not one-sizefits-all, so our flexible programs and innovative approach are designed to align with each student's unique passions. Whether your interests lie in business, sports, cutting-edge sciences, or humanities and social sciences, you'll find your place here.

YOUR PASSIONS,

YOUR EDUCATION

SMU offers the flexibility and selection to design an education aligned with your goals.

Take current student Van Bernard, 2025 recipient of the Terry Fox Humanitarian Award, who is attending SMU specifically for our Bachelor of Commerce in Sports Business program.

The Bachelor of Commerce program at the Sobey School of Business has also been recently

refreshed to include courses in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and operations management. Along with the BComm in Sports Business, students with an interest in sport can pursue a BA in Health, Wellness, & Sport in Society (HWSS), or customize their education with a certificate in either Sports Business or HWSS to complement an existing major. This commitment to innovation allows SMU students to align their education with their unique interests and career paths.

At the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, students have access to countless mentorship opportunities with local businesses. This allows students like Emma McGill to build flagship businesses like Gluten Free Living while still in school, turning dreams into reality through on-campus resources.

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Saint Mary's has been consistently ranked within the top

five primarily undergraduate universities in Canada, and holds the top spot as the number one primarily undergraduate research university in Nova Scotia. At SMU, education doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Through co-ops, internships, research opportunities, and leadership roles, our students dive into real-world experiences that shape their careers and make a difference. They graduate with the knowledge, skills, and connections to thrive, ready to leave their mark on the world. In 2025, for example, dozens of SMU undergraduate students participated in paid summer internships across diverse disciplines, from modelling galaxies to researching the ongoing social impact of Nova Scotia's mining history.

In the fall, the Saint Mary's Enactus Team won the Enactus World Cup in Thailand, bringing home a prestigious award for the university and putting Canada on the map as a top player in entrepreneurship. And in the Arthur L. Irving

Entrepreneurship Centre, students have access to countless opportunities to engage with local businesses to receive mentorship and hands-on experience that nurtures their entrepreneurial mindset.

Under Dr. Danika Van Proosdij, environmental science students travelled to the coast to spearhead sustainable development, leading Atlantic Canada in natural solutions to erosion.

In the Faculty of Arts, Anthropology professor Dr. Jonathan Fowler and his students reconnected a community with its history in Beechville, Nova Scotia. By surveying the 19th-century settlement with aerial lidar and GPS, students participated in what Dr. Fowler calls "a kind of soul craft," uncovering stories hidden in the forest floor.

In the Faculty of Science, Engineering student Sheheryar Khan brought the Enactus Team to world-champion status with his company Alaagi, which makes cutting-edge compostable bioplastics out

of marine vegetation. Already gaining the interest of investors, Alaagi is making waves in a competitive industry.

JOIN A SUPPORTIVE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY

It’s no wonder that Saint Mary’s University is recognized as one of Canada’s top 50 research institutions, punching above its weight in research impact. Students graduate ready to make a difference—equipped with the knowledge, skills, and community connections to excel.

The support and community at Saint Mary’s are unique— you feel it as soon as you step on campus. Robust student support, open conversations, and a diverse and inclusive community means students can achieve their goals within a supportive community alongside professors, mentors, and fellow students who believe in them.

Find your place at Saint Mary's University. Visit smu.ca/goeast

Process

A Paw-sitive Legacy:

Did you know that most Canadian police agencies, including the Canadian Armed Forces, have no aftercare funding for their retired Canine Officers?

These publicly funded agencies, stretched by limited taxpayer dollars, often struggle to allocate enough funds to maintain their working dogs, let alone support them after retirement. For larger organizations like the Toronto Police Service, York Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, and the RCMP, this leaves their canine veterans without a financial safety net after years of dedicated service.

That’s where Ned’s Wish steps in to bridge the gap. As Canada’s only organization supporting retired police and military service dogs, Ned’s Wish offers essential financial assistance, ensuring these canine heroes experience the quality of life they’ve earned.

Since its inception, Ned’s Wish has registered 275 retired service dogs in its program, providing more than $642,000 in financial support for their care. Because the charity remains 100 per cent volunteer-run, every donor dollar goes directly back to helping these

Building the Next Generation of Skilled Trades in Ontario

Building a skilled workforce is so

much more than just encouraging job seekers to pursue careers in the trades. As a registered charity, Support Ontario Youth (SOY) helps apprentices, job seekers, and employers navigate the skilled trades pathway, creating a cycle of success where today’s apprentices become tomorrow’s journeypersons and mentors for the next generation.

Employers often face challenges in managing the apprenticeship process. SOY’s Group Sponsor Program simplifies this journey by handling registration and providing wrap-around services that meet the individual needs of the apprentice’s journey. This approach allows employers to concentrate on training while accessing jobready candidates and benefiting from expert guidance to strengthen their workforce.

Melanie from SOY explains, “SOY helps apprentices understand what to expect, and supports employers in creating environments where apprentices can learn and thrive.” This approach helps ensure apprentices complete their training successfully, resulting in two key outcomes: a fully certified tradesperson entering the workforce and increased capacity for employers to continue training new apprentices.

SOY also offers programs for individuals ready to start or advance careers in the trades. Tools in the Trades Boot Camps are one-day events providing hands-on experience with tools, employability

skills development, and opportunities to connect with industry professionals. The Trades Readiness Program offers comprehensive training to prepare participants, including safety training, live webinars, mentorship, employability coaching, and tailored support.

SOY’s mission is to guide apprentices toward journeyperson status, building a skilled, confident, and capable workforce that sustains the trades for future generations. Partnerships with employers provide access to talented apprentices and contribute to long-term solutions by increasing the number of certified skilled workers to meet the labour market demand, ensuring a strong and innovative skilled trades sector to support Ontario’s economic priorities. Beyond individual success stories, programs like those offered by SOY play an important role in strengthening Ontario’s broader economy. Skilled trades are

essential to building homes, maintaining infrastructure, and supporting industries that keep communities running. As demand for skilled workers continues to grow, connecting motivated apprentices with supportive employers becomes increasingly important. By guiding apprentices through the process and helping employers navigate training requirements, SOY helps remove barriers that can otherwise slow workforce development. The result is a stronger pipeline of qualified tradespeople who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to Ontario’s labour market while building rewarding, long-term careers.

To learn more, visit supportontarioyouth.ca

This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

How Ned’s Wish Supports Retired K9 Officers

heroes live out their golden years in comfort and dignity.

HONOURING OUR CANINE HEROES

Police and military dogs typically have work-focused lives from puppyhood, with working careers spanning six to nine years. When they retire, often due to age or health issues, the toll of their service stays with them.

The physically demanding nature of police work leaves many retired service dogs with chronic medical issues. These health concerns

impact their quality of life and result in high medical costs. Ned’s Wish is a vital lifeline for these fourlegged heroes, stepping in to cover these medical expenses and allowing them to experience comfort, care, and security in retirement.

PSD Frankie served with the Toronto Police Service as a cadaver detection dog, bringing focus and determination to some of the GTA’s most difficult searches. Born in Millbrook, Ontario, in 2019, Frankie was originally a family pet until his owner passed during the COVID-19 pandemic—then his

breeder suggested he may thrive with Toronto Police. With his high drive and exuberant nature, Frankie quickly took to detection work and went on to support numerous missing-person investigations and homicide cold-case searches across Toronto and beyond. He also received additional training through the Ontario Provincial Police and Western Carolina University’s forensic anthropology program.

During one of his final operational callouts, Frankie was asked to re-search an area that had already been checked—his indication led officers to the missing person’s remains and helped advance the investigation, resulting in an arrest. Now fully retired (and sporting a gold-crowned tooth for extra “street cred”), Frankie is ready for a wellearned new chapter, supported by Ned’s Wish so he can enjoy the comfort and care he’s earned.

While Ontario police service dogs represent a smaller portion of Ned’s Wish beneficiaries, the organization has paid over $123,000 in medical expenses for these courageous dogs, including PSD Arry, a “Super Dog” who served with Chatham-Kent Police Service. Through donor

support, Ned’s Wish ensures that Arry and other Ontario-based service dogs receive the aftercare they need to thrive in retirement.

HONOURING

AXEL’S LEGACY

In addition to direct medical support, Ned’s Wish is launching a new initiative to build Axel’s House, a decompression and re-homing sanctuary for retired service dogs, named in memory of Calgary Police Service Dog Axel, who passed away shortly after retirement.

Axel’s House will provide a safe, supportive space for retired K9s to transition to civilian life, offering short-term boarding, medical care, behavioural evaluations, and re-homing services.

HELP A HERO

By contributing to Ned’s Wish, you’re helping ensure that retired police and military dogs get the care they need to enjoy the retirement they deserve.

They save our lives—now it’s time to return the favour.

Learn more and donate at nedswish.com

After years of loyal service protecting our country and communities, police and military dogs often face retirement with significant medical needs. Ned’s Wish helps ensure these heroes can live their remaining years in comfort and dignity by supporting families with the cost of veterinary care. Because when their service ends, our care shouldn’t.

Good Gifts: Legacy of Love

Mothers are architects of a better world. They shape families, strengthen communities, and model what it looks like to lead with love. This Mother’s Day, what better way to express our gratitude than with a gift that reflects that same spirit? Created by mother-daughter duos, family-run teams, and Canadian brands driven by purpose, this handpicked selection celebrates gifts with a legacy—thoughtful finds that help make the world a little brighter with every purchase.

Amandine Sol Botanicals is a Canadian skincare brand born from a mother-daughter partnership, and a shared desire to simplify routines without sacrificing results. Inspired by a return-to-nature lifestyle, the line blends botanicals with proven essentials and is designed to be multi-use, so each product delivers maximum value. The brand also emphasizes ethical choices through sustainability-minded creation and community support through select foundations. It’s a beautiful way to treat Mom to a daily ritual that feels indulgent.

ONQUATA

Onquata is a Wendat motherdaughter project founded by Lise and Lara, celebrating First Nations culture through hand-painted paddles. Each paddle is crafted to order, honouring ancestral techniques while blending art, heritage, and functionality—it can be displayed as décor or taken out on the water. By collaborating with Indigenous artisans and communities in Wendake, Québec, Onquata preserves traditions, promotes cultural heritage, and creates meaningful connections. A unique, purposeful gift that carries history, beauty, and storytelling in every brushstroke.

Anzie Jewelry began as a family’s response to a hard moment and grew into a brand rooted in philanthropy, creativity, and connection. Founded by Anzie Stein and her husband to help raise awareness for colorectal cancer, the Montréal-based fine-jewelry company is now a true family studio, with Anzie designing and operating alongside her two daughters, Jaclyn and Joanna. Each colourful gemstone piece is meant to be worn with joy, and the story behind it makes it even more meaningful to gift. A keepsake that celebrates Mom and the causes that matter.

SARJESA

Sarjesa is a Calgary-based, women-owned tea company rooted in purpose and social impact. Founded by Alexandra Sangster, the brand creates premium tea blends and herbal tisanes while championing women’s empowerment and gender equity. Partnering with local farmers, women-led organizations, and international small-scale growers, Sarjesa builds a supply chain that prioritizes fair pay, respectful workplaces, and long-term impact. Each cup becomes more than a simple ritual—it’s a gift that supports ethical sourcing, community connection, and the choices and opportunities of women everywhere. A thoughtful way to celebrate Mom while making a difference with every sip.

SWEETGRASS SPA

Sweetgrass Spa is Toronto’s women-only sanctuary for relaxation, connection, and renewal, created by women for women and located within Verity, the downtown women’s club founded by Mary Aitken. Set inside a restored 19th-century chocolate factory, the experience blends personalized treatments with calming water therapies, including an ozonated pool, infrared sauna, jacuzzi, and 12 private treatment rooms. For Mother’s Day, it’s a gift of time well spent, a few unhurried hours devoted entirely to her.

Reducing Costs, Saving Lives: How Canadian Isotope Innovation Is Offering Hope

For decades now, Canada has been a leader in the research, production, and innovative use of medical isotopes. Yet, unlike some of our other great Canadian success stories, many Canadians remain unfamiliar with our leadership in this space, and perhaps even unaware of what medical isotopes are.

WHAT ARE MEDICAL ISOTOPES—AND WHY

DO THEY MATTER?

Medical isotopes are irradiated atoms that play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases like cancer, powering nuclear medicine and radiation oncology departments globally. Diagnostic imaging, such as PET and SPECT scans, has historically made up most of the global nuclear medicine market. While these scans remain a critical component of cancer care, the remarkable growth we currently see across the global nuclear medicine community is driven by advancements in therapeutic radiopharmaceutical

drugs and technologies, allowing for precision therapy that targets cancer cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.

THE NEXT FRONTIER IN CANCER CARE: RADIOTHERANOSTICS

Among the most promising of these breakthroughs is radiotheranostics, which many oncologists describe as a future pillar of cancer care. Radiotheranostics, as the name implies, combines THERApeutics and diagNOSTICS to target cancer cells with unmatched accuracy, leveraging the power of medical isotopes. This targeted, non-invasive, personalized cancer care brings with it remarkable benefits, not only for patients, but for our healthcare system as a whole.

BETTER OUTCOMES, LOWER SYSTEM BURDEN

By investing in these innovative radiopharmaceuticals and radiotheranostics, we can

ensure that patients are able to get back to their lives, jobs, and families sooner than with many conventional treatments. These diagnostics, powered by Canadian-produced medical isotopes, have the potential to catch diseases earlier and inform treatment pathways, allowing for highly-effective treatments to begin sooner. Therapeutics have the potential to shorten or avoid extended hospital stays and long-term care, and reduce the risk of side effects and complications associated with conventional chemotherapies and surgeries. Together, these benefits translate into measurable, GDP-linked value and long-term health system efficiencies. In the era of hallway medicine and struggling healthcare systems across the country, finding ways to limit the burden on our healthcare capacity is critical. When we can limit that burden, while also improving patient outcomes, it becomes a no-brainer.

A NATIONAL PUSH: THE ISOTOPES FOR HOPE CAMPAIGN

In 2023, the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) launched its Isotopes for Hope campaign, setting an ambitious goal of doubling Canada’s production of life-changing medical isotopes by 2030. The campaign, which entered its third phase in November 2025 following a sold-out event hosted with the Economic Club of Canada, has outlined several specific opportunities for government support through a series of reports published by the CNIC.

GOVERNMENTS ARE TAKING NOTICE

Today, multiple levels of government are taking note of the significant potential that Canada’s isotope sector holds for both patients and the broader healthcare system. From investments in earlystage radiopharmaceutical commercialization through

the creation of the federal government-funded Canadian Medical Isotope Ecosystem (CMIE), to the establishment of the first-of-its-kind Nuclear Isotope Innovation Council of Ontario (NIICO) under Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, our federal and provincial governments are beginning to embrace the sector’s potential.

A MADE-IN-CANADA REASON TO BE PROUD

While continued support is always needed, one thing is increasingly clear: Canada is a global hub for isotope and radiopharmaceutical innovation. While this isotope innovation brings with it significant economic potential, it also brings something more important. Medical isotopes offer hope to patients and families when they need it most. And that is something all Canadians can be proud of.

Learn more about Canadian isotope innovation at canadianisotopes.ca

History shows that real change rarely begins in boardrooms; it starts with people. This year’s Earth Day is all about turning protest into progress, beginning with the bold global theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” a reminder that the future of our planet is shaped by the collective voice of communities, students, families, and everyday citizens.

It’s been a turbulent year for environmental progress. Across the world, long-standing protections have been weakened or rolled back, often at the expense of public health, ecosystems, and vulnerable communities. But instead of losing hope, environmental leaders and changemakers are growing louder. It’s time for visible, sustained public action, and that includes all of us.

FROM PROTEST TO PROGRESS

Since the first Earth Day in

1970, millions of people across countless industries have come together to fight for a better future. From farmers to faith leaders, scientists to healthcare workers, first responders, and youth, climate activists from all walks of life have helped prevent illness, protect communities, and push governments toward stronger environmental laws. This year, we’re bringing it back. In 2026, we’re more connected than ever before, so why not let that translate into collective action for our global community?

EarthDay.org is calling on people around the world to organize events on April 18, April 22 (Earth Day), and throughout Earth Week, like peaceful marches and demonstrations, community cleanups of streets, rivers, parks, and beaches, and teach-ins at schools and community spaces to get more people involved.

"All those years ago, in 1970, we launched a genuine environmental revolution. We proved that an engaged public can be an unstoppable force,” said Denis Hayes, organizer of the first Earth Day. “It can be again in 2026."

CLIMATE EDUCATION IS

CLIMATE ACTION

Alongside its Earth Day announcement, EarthDay.org is celebrating a major global milestone: the European Union’s decision to embed climate education into school curricula from kindergarten through Grade 12 as part of its official climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Today’s environmental leaders know that young people are the future of climate action, and this move takes that one step further by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking needed to navigate a

rapidly changing world. More than 60 countries have now adopted similar commitments, and over 150 nations have integrated climate education language supported by EarthDay.org into their national climate plans.

This matters because the green transition is already reshaping the global economy. According to international research, demand for green skills is growing faster than the workforce can supply them. The shift to clean energy and sustainable industries is expected to create over 100 million new jobs worldwide in the coming decade. Young people are increasingly worried about job security on top of climate concerns—the green transition is the meaningful, future-oriented answer to both.

“Climate education doesn't just tackle climate change—it connects people to jobs and economic opportunity,” said Efrem Bycer,

Standing With Seniors:

Head of Workforce and Climate Policy Partnerships at LinkedIn. “By prioritizing climate education, these nations are investing in both a sustainable future and an inclusive economy."

Countries all over the world, alongside institutions such as the Vatican, are now advancing climate education as a foundation for both environmental stewardship and economic resilience.

As Sharan Burrow, Vice Chair of the European Climate Foundation, put it: "We grew up learning about the great forests, oceans, and rivers of the world, but not how to care for them, even though our lives depend on them. We didn't learn that the industries that make us prosperous are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions and that we must use clean energy and clean tech to keep the planet livable. Our children will know better.”

(Source: EarthDay.org)

How the SSL Provides Safety, Support, and Connection

The Seniors Safety Line, operated by the Assaulted Women's Helpline, is a unique service tailored to the specific challenges seniors and their caregivers face in Ontario. With a steadfast commitment to fostering wellbeing and safety, the SSL operates 24/7 to ensure seniors have immediate access to the support they need. Our approach involves:

CRISIS COUNSELLING

The SSL provides immediate, compassionate emotional support for seniors experiencing distress. Trained counsellors are available around the clock to offer a listening ear and empathetic guidance, ensuring seniors feel reassured and supported during their most challenging moments. This service addresses urgent emotional needs and reassures seniors that they are not alone.

SAFETY PLANNING

Taking a proactive approach, the SSL collaborates with seniors to develop personalized safety plans. These plans focus on enhancing personal safety and supporting seniors in regaining control over their lives. By identifying potential risks and establishing clear strategies to mitigate them, we work with seniors to ensure they feel secure and well-prepared for any situation.

INFORMATION AND REFERRALS

A cornerstone of the SSL's services

is its ability to connect seniors with a wide range of local resources. Whether seniors need assistance finding legal advocates, accessing healthcare services, or engaging with social services, the SSL ensures they receive the specific support they require. This comprehensive approach addresses immediate needs and encourages seniors to become more involved in their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

Beyond immediate crisis intervention, the SSL offers a safe and supportive space for seniors to express their feelings, fears, and concerns without judgment. This emotional support is also extended to caregivers and family members, equipping them with tools to assist their loved ones effectively.

SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS

Recognizing the critical role caregivers play in seniors' lives, the SSL offers tailored resources and support

to address their specific challenges. By helping caregivers navigate the complexities of providing care, the SSL reduces stress and strengthens the entire support network for vulnerable seniors, ensuring caregivers feel supported and understood.

HOW YOU CAN HELP REDUCING STIGMA

One of our key missions is to reduce the stigma surrounding elder abuse. We believe that communities can promote open conversations that normalize these issues—showing that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness. Sharing stories of recovery and resilience can also inspire others and encourage those in need to reach out for help.

VOLUNTEERING AND DONATIONS

You can contribute by volunteering your time or resources to the SSL. This could include helping with outreach efforts, organizing community events, or providing administrative support. Additionally,

financial contributions can help sustain the SSL's operations, ensuring that it continues to provide vital services to seniors in need. If you're interested in volunteering and donating, visit seniorssafetyline.ca for more information.

BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS FOR SENIORS Encouraging seniors to engage with local community organizations is vital for fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. By facilitating connections between seniors and community resources, you can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where seniors feel valued and connected. Building community connections enhances seniors' lives and enriches the entire community, fostering mutual respect and understanding across generations. Together, we can create an inclusive environment for seniors.

If you are seeking support, please call 1-866-299-1011

Five Simple Ways to Make an Environmental Impact

Caring for the planet can sometimes feel overwhelming, but making a difference doesn’t always require big actions or major life changes. Small, everyday choices can add up—especially when we all take part. Here are five simple ways to make an environmental impact and support a healthier planet and ocean.

1. HOST A SHORELINE CLEANUP IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Every year, an estimated 11 million tons of plastic enter the ocean. But you can still make a difference, even if you don’t live by the coast. Shoreline cleanups can happen anywhere water meets land; along lakes, rivers, streams, and even wetlands. Hosting a cleanup with friends, coworkers, or classmates is a fun and rewarding way to protect local wildlife. Every piece of trash removed helps keep your community beautiful and prevents that waste from ever reaching the ocean.

2. SAY NO TO FAST FASHION

You can extend the life of your wardrobe by repairing or up-cycling old pieces and only replacing items when they’re truly worn out. Consider buying most of your clothes second-hand or checking thrift stores first whenever you need something new. Hosting a

clothing swap or taking a mending class with friends can be fun ways to refresh your style in a sustainable way.

3. CUT DOWN ON SINGLE-USE PLASTICS

Only nine per cent of single-use plastics are recycled, with most ending up in landfills or the ocean. Choosing plastic-free packaging, as well as buying in bulk, are two ways to start reducing plastic use. Another is by using the “big four” reusable items: coffee mug, shopping bag, water bottle, and straw. By switching to reusable items, people can help prevent countless disposable items from entering the environment.

4. START A CONSERVATION PROJECT

It can be easier than you think to find a project that inspires others and creates lasting change. You could start a local cleanup club,

organize an art show celebrating people’s connection to nature, or create a community garden that supports pollinators. There are even funding opportunities, like the Ocean Action Grant, to help you bring your ideas to life and make an even bigger impact.

5. SUPPORT ENVIRONMENTAL CAUSES IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Change often starts small and local, and simply speaking can be a powerful way to help create it. You can lend your voice to the causes that matter most to you by taking steps like volunteering with a local environmental organization, attending a community meeting about conservation initiatives, or writing to local leaders to support sustainable policies. No matter where you live or how you get started, every action counts. Together, small steps can lead to big waves of change. —NC

Living Better, Longer: How Ivan Franko Homes Is Redefining Longevity for Modern Aging

Longevity has become one of the defining conversations of our time. Around the world, people are living longer than ever before thanks to advances in medicine, technology, and wellness research. But the question is no longer simply how long we live; it’s how well we live those extra years. As populations age and healthcare systems adapt, there is growing interest in how communities, care providers, and individuals can support healthier, more fulfilling lives well into older age.

When people think about longevity, they often think about reaching 100. But Olya Vovnysh, CEO of Ivan Franko Homes, believes longevity is about much more than a number.

“We have residents who are over 100 and still mentally sharp, physically active, and deeply engaged in the world,” she explained. “One is 106, and the oldest we’ve cared for lived to 108.”

These residents bring stories full of heart and resilience. Ivan Winniczuk, for example, is 106 years old and survived the Holodomor and Siberian exile before building a life in Canada filled with faith, family, and service to his community.

Of course, genetics and healthy habits play a role. But after years of working closely with

elders, Vovnysh has observed something else that seems to matter just as much: mindset.

“The residents who seem to live the longest—and with the most joy—tend to have a calm, grounded outlook,” she said. “They take things as they come. You’ll hear them say, ‘It’ll be okay’ or ‘We’ll figure it out tomorrow.’ That optimism carries them through life’s challenges.”

A COMMUNITY DESIGNED FOR AGING WELL

Ivan Franko Homes has served more than 8,000 seniors since its early beginnings in a modest house. Today, it has grown into a trusted provider of long-term care and senior living in Ontario while maintaining the same values that defined its earliest days: dignity, belonging, and compassion.

Just as seniors’ housing should not be reduced to four walls and a roof, aging should not mean isolation or decline. Instead, it can be a time of continued growth, joy, and connection, and seniors housing can be the setting for a deeply connected community.

At Ivan Franko Homes, residents benefit from comprehensive services, including 24/7 nursing care, physician visits, physiotherapy, dietary guidance, and behavioural support.

Equally important to medical needs are

the recreation programs designed to support physical mobility, cognitive health, and emotional wellness. From art and music to cultural celebrations and social gatherings, activities encourage residents to stay active, curious, and connected. Research consistently shows that social isolation can be one of the greatest risks to seniors’ health, so Ivan Franko Homes makes connection part of everyday life.

“Longevity isn’t just about living to 100,” said Vovnysh. “It’s about finding meaning in how you spend your time.”

Another essential part of longevity is emotional and cultural well-being. Ivan Franko Homes celebrates Ukrainian traditions, language, and heritage, creating an environment where residents feel deeply connected to their identity and community.

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF AGING

As Canada’s senior population continues to grow, the need for thoughtful, community-centred care is increasing rapidly. The Centre for Aging and Longevity, part of a broader Campus of Care in Mississauga, will provide a modern, 160-bed long-term care home designed to support seniors with evolving health needs. The campus model

integrates independent living, assisted living, and long-term care in one community, so residents can age in place without losing their sense of home.

Ivan Franko Homes actively engages with the broader community through events, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships that keep residents connected to the world beyond their doors. Communities take all kinds at all ages, and staying involved helps keep a sense of purpose alive for both residents and supporters.

“Doing good for others is one of the secrets to happiness,” Vovnysh shared. “When people volunteer or give their time, they’re not only helping residents—they’re strengthening the entire community.”

Longevity is not only about living longer, but about living well in the years we are given. Communities play an important role in ensuring that older adults continue to live with dignity, purpose, and connection. Through the generosity of supporters and donors, Ivan Franko Homes can strengthen programs and create environments where seniors can truly thrive.

To learn more about how you can be part of this mission, visit ivanfrankohomes.com

Spring Getaways, Simplified in MetroWest

As the flowers bloom and the weather warms, it’s time to escape on a spring getaway! An easy twohour flight from Toronto, here’s a MetroWest Boston itinerary full of charming New England towns, engaging activities, interesting arts and culture, and outdoor beauty.

DAY 1

Explore the American Heritage Museum, where your visit begins in a WWI trench listening to a nurse’s account from the Front while bombs explode above you and the floor begins to shake. Recently listed among National Geographic’s “Top WWII Museums in the World,” this astounding collection of historic aircraft, tanks, and classic cars features engaging, immersive exhibits.

Grab a craft beer flight and enjoy lunch in downtown Hudson, then wander through the adorable shops of this town, voted “Best Main Street in America.” Afterwards, visit the Wayside Inn—the oldest inn in America. Along the way, stop for a cooking class or browse the many local products

at Duck Soup, from handcrafted cutting boards to Goodnow Farms Chocolate, which has won more international awards than any other maker in North America. Have dinner at the Wayside and take photos in front of the historic grist mill, chapel, gardens, and pond. Later, check into the newly renovated Renaissance Framingham Hotel & Conference Center.

This gorgeous property not only provides a good night’s sleep, but also an unbeatable breakfast at

Provisions—don’t miss the Irish Cream French Toast or the Sunrise Benedict…delish!

DAY 2

Spend the morning at one of the many farms in MetroWest, from historic Nourse Farm (where you can pick berries starting in May) to Lookout Farm (where you can enjoy a cider flight while listening to live music) to Unity Farm Sanctuary, where you can meet over 225 rescued farm animals.

Afterwards, head to Ashland State Park to hike the 3.5-mile trail around the reservoir in the glorious spring sunshine, or challenge your friends to a highly competitive game of pickleball at Bosse’s impressive indoor courts. When you’re all played out, indulge in delicious ramen bowls at Doragon Eatery, then pop over to Dulce D Leche for homemade gelato or decadent chocolates for dessert. Visit the Danforth Art Museum in the afternoon to see contemporary and historic works,

including their spring exhibitions. After a casual dinner at Zaftigs or an upscale one at Buttercup, catch a concert or other show at the Center for Arts in Natick, housed in a cool, historic fire station turned theater.

DAY 3

Start the day at Southwick’s Zoo. The largest zoo in New England lets you get up close and personal with animals through Animal Encounters, and offers a variety of activities, including the Soaring Eagle Zip Line, Skyfari Sky Ride, carousel, train rides, a maze, and more! After lunch at Galliford’s, take in one of spring’s most anticipated sights at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill— the iconic Field of Daffodils. Stroll through more than 25,000 cheerful blooms blanketing the landscape in a sea of yellow, an unforgettable way to welcome the season.

Want to extend your stay? Check out a wealth of other activities, attractions, restaurants, and hotels in the free visitors guide at metrowestvisitors.org/guide

The Impact of Your Yes: Organ Donation Creates Hope and Celebration

On April 7, you may notice more people wearing green than normal. It is not a fashion trend. It is Green Shirt Day, serving as a reminder to start a conversation that many Canadians avoid until it’s urgent: organ and tissue donation.

Today, approximately 4,400 Canadians are waiting for a lifesaving organ or tissue transplant. Unfortunately, an average of 250 Canadians die each year while waiting, simply because the gift they need does not arrive in time.

While most Canadians support donation in principle, a gap remains between belief and action. Public opinion data shows 90 per cent of Canadians approve of organ and tissue donation, yet only 32 per cent say they have registered their decision. Green Shirt Day is designed to close that gap by turning quiet support into a clear plan.

WHAT ORGAN & TISSUE

DONATION ACTUALLY IS

Organ donation can happen in two ways. Living donation allows a person to donate certain organs,

most commonly a kidney or a portion of their liver, to someone who needs a transplant. Deceased donation happens when organs are donated after a person has died and transplanted to someone whose life depends on them.

Tissue donation can include corneas, skin, or bone, helping restore sight and improve comfort and mobility. A single organ donor has the potential to provide as many as eight organs for transplant, which means one decision can help more than one person. Many people assume they would not qualify because of age or medical history. In reality, potential donors are assessed medically on a case-bycase basis, and age alone does not automatically rule anyone out.

WHY APRIL MATTERS: NOTDAM AND GREEN SHIRT DAY

April puts organ and tissue donation back in the national conversation, with National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month (NOTDAM) encouraging

Canadians to learn, talk, and register. Within that month, Green Shirt Day on April 7 honours a story that changed how this country thinks about donation. Logan Boulet was a defenceman with the Humboldt Broncos. After the 2018 bus crash, he died from his injuries on April 7. His parents chose to donate his organs, helping six people live on. Their decision sparked a wave of donor registrations across Canada known as the Logan Boulet Effect, proving how one family’s ‘yes’ can reach far beyond a single moment.

SHERBROOKE 2026: A CELEBRATION OF LIFE

From July 5–11, the Canadian Transplant Games in Sherbrooke, Québec, will turn the impact of yes into something you can see and cheer for. Transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, and supporters will come together for a national week of sport and community, with events ranging from swimming and athletics to cycling, road races, racquet sports, pétanque, and a sprint triathlon.

Living kidney donor Kristofer Woods says it best: “The Canadian

Transplant Games is a celebration of life! To see people competing in a triathlon together, many of whom wouldn’t be with us today without the 'yes' of another person or family, it’s a remarkable thing to witness.”

MAKE YOUR YES OFFICIAL Green Shirt Day starts conversations. Your registered decision completes them. Take a few minutes to register your intent, then tell your family. Learn more about the Games and how to get involved at canadiantransplant.com

TO REGISTER

Into the Wild: Unforgettable Nahanni River Adventures with Black Feather

What does the adventure of a lifetime look like to you? Are you dreaming of a journey through one of the world’s most incredible wilderness landscapes, complete with roaring rapids, towering peaks, awe-inspiring canyons, and quiet evenings beneath vast northern skies? If this sounds like your kind of adventure, Black Feather is ready

For over 50 years, Black Feather adventurers have paddled wilderness rivers, hiked remote landscapes, and sea kayaked along pristine coastlines and through sparkling fjords. For families, friends, and explorers seeking an unforgettable getaway, Black Feather offers canoeing, rafting, and hiking expeditions along the iconic Nahanni River. Fully guided and fully catered, these trips allow travellers to immerse themselves

in the experience while expert guides handle the logistics.

THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

One of the most popular journeys is a 10-day rafting or canoe-and-raft expedition designed for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Experienced guides navigate the deepest canyons in northern Canada with skill and confidence, lead scenic hikes to breathtaking viewpoints, and share their deep knowledge of the region.

In the evening, Black Feather guides slow the pace, preparing wholesome meals enjoyed around the warmth of a campfire as you share stories and soak in your surroundings—the stars are even brighter than you’d imagine, and the sounds of city life are far away.

For paddlers seeking a greater challenge, the Broken Skull River—known in the Dene language as Pı̨́ı̨́p'enéh łéetǫ́ǫ́ Deé offers one of northern Canada’s most exhilarating whitewater canoe adventures. Beginning high in the alpine on a crystal-clear lake, this fast-flowing tributary of the Nahanni rushes through a remote valley of continuous rapids and lush wilderness. Travellers can paddle the 11day Broken Skull River trip on its own and end their journey at Rabbitkettle Lake, or continue down the South Nahanni River for an epic 24-day expedition, one of the most immersive river adventures in North America.

HIKING BENEATH THE CIRQUE OF THE UNCLIMBABLES

Black Feather’s Nahanni Paddle and Cirque Hike explores one of the Northwest Territories’ most dramatic alpine landscapes: the Cirque of the Unclimbables. This 21-day canoe trip combines the magic of paddling down the Nahanni with an incredible backpacking trip to the Cirque. A highlight will be spending time in the Fairy Meadows, where hikers wander through alpine terrain surrounded by towering granite peaks, glaciers, and the legendary Lotus Flower Tower.

READY TO BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE?

Discover the wild beauty of the Nahanni and experience the journey of a lifetime at blackfeather.com

North of Extraordinary: Discover the Yukon with Air North, Yukon’s Airline

There are few places left in the world that truly feel vast and unspoiled. The Yukon is one of them. With its towering mountains, winding rivers, vibrant northern communities, and skies that glow with the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in fall and winter, the territory offers endless opportunities to experience nature at its most spectacular. Thanks to Air North, Yukon’s Airline, reaching this remarkable destination from Ontario is easier than many Canadians realize.

Air North offers direct seasonal service connecting Toronto and Ottawa with Whitehorse and Yellowknife, making it simpler than ever for travellers in Eastern Canada to discover the North. The journey is shorter than you’d think—it’s just about five hours from Toronto to Whitehorse! Beginning June 2 through October 22, 2026, Air North will operate up to four

TRAVEL THE NORTHERN WAY

Known for its warm, Yukon-style hospitality, the airline focuses on offering exceptional service before you travel and throughout your flight. Air North believes in providing true value with no surprises. Every fare includes complimentary meals and baggage,

meaning passengers can bring one carry-on, one personal item, and two checked bags at no extra cost—so no need to worry about leaving behind hiking gear, fishing equipment, or outdoor adventure essentials, you can bring it all. Comfort is also part of the experience. Air North’s Boeing aircraft feature 32 inches of seat pitch

and reclining seats, offering more space to relax while enjoying a light meal prepared in the airline’s own Whitehorse kitchen. Combined with strong on-time performance and nearly 50 years of service, Air North has earned a loyal following among travellers heading north.

A PLAYGROUND OF WILDERNESS & WONDER

In summer, the Yukon comes alive under the midnight sun. When daylight stretches late into the evening, outdoor adventures seem to have no time limit, which means you can have your fill (and then some) of hiking alpine trails, canoeing along pristine rivers, paddleboarding on glassy lakes, biking through mountain landscapes, and spotting wildlife in vast protected wilderness.

There are plenty of opportunities for city breaks, too. Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital, brings a lively arts and culinary scene,

Indigenous culture and heritage, and the chance to learn about the traditions and stories of the First Nations who have lived on these lands for thousands of years. As summer turns to fall, cooler nights and darker skies create ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights. Travellers can spend their days exploring golden tundra landscapes and their evenings gazing upward as vibrant ribbons of green, pink, and purple ripple across the sky. With fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, autumn in the Yukon feels especially magical.

CLOSER THAN YOU THINK Thanks to Air North, the Yukon is closer, more accessible, and more welcoming than ever before. It only takes one trip to understand why travellers return again and again.

Discover the North with

Discover the Wild Heart of the North

Into the Northern Wild: Adventures Along the Alaska Highway

With warmer weather upon us, it’s time to embrace new outdoor adventures—and the Northern Rockies are the perfect place to begin. Tucked into northeastern British Columbia, this region is defined by dramatic mountains, jade-green lakes, and welcoming towns. The stretch of highway between Fort Nelson, B.C., and Watson Lake, YT, invites travellers into a landscape filled with adventure.

Nicknamed the “Serengeti of the North,” the region is renowned for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of wood bison, caribou, elk, bears, stone sheep, and countless bird species. Located within the Aurora Oval, this is also one of the best places to view the northern lights, particularly from fall through spring.

In summer, the long northern days make it possible to enjoy hiking, golfing, fishing, paddling, and backcountry exploring late into the evening. The Alaska Highway, a legacy of World War II, remains one of North America’s most iconic wilderness routes. Whether you're road-tripping or venturing off the beaten path, the Northern Rockies are a destination like no other—alive with nature, history, and adventure.

SPRING INTO THE WILD

The Alaska Highway winds through true animal territory—a northern wilderness where humans are the visitors. Here, wildlife has the right of way. Iconic species like the wood bison—the largest land mammal in

North America—frequently share the road, and visitors should always maintain a respectful distance.

Spring and summer are ideal for spotting young wildlife, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings. One standout stop is Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, open year-round and known for its lush, warm-water ecosystem. This unique environment supports a range of species, including some found nowhere else.

The region also encompasses the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area (M-KMA), one of B.C.’s largest and most ecologically significant wilderness zones—roughly the size of Ireland. This globally important area protects diverse wildlife and ecosystems while honouring the cultures that call it home. Whether you stick to the highway or explore by hike, paddle, plane, or horse, adventure in the Northern Rockies is as wild as it is unforgettable.

LEGACY ROADS

The Alaska Highway is one of the world’s most storied roadways, built in just eight months during World

War II to connect mainland America to Alaska. The feat was monumental, carried out under extreme weather and working conditions by thousands of soldiers and crews. Today, the 2,237-kilometre highway stands as a living legacy, rich in history and natural beauty. From rugged mountains to wideopen vistas, the journey offers some of Canada’s most photogenic highway stretches. Be sure to pull over safely to snap photos, stretch your legs, and take in the views. No matter the season, preparation is key. Carry the proper equipment, plan for changing weather, and visit the Fort Nelson Visitor Centre for up-to-date information and local tips. With so much to discover, give yourself time to stop, explore, and experience the northern wild.

The Japan You Haven’t Seen: Shiso City’s Forest Therapy Trails and Sake Heritage

Located in the central-western part of Hyogo Prefecture—and approximately 90 minutes by car from Kyoto and Osaka—Shiso City (Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) is gaining attention as a new destination for nature-based tourism. Built around its extensive forests, deep-rooted fermentation culture, and a heritage forest railway revived by local residents, the city is emerging as a compelling place for sustainable travel.

Due in part to the difficulty of reading its name, Shiso City remains relatively little known even within Japan. However, this very sense of being “undiscovered” is increasingly attractive to domestic and international travelers seeking meaningful and sustainable tourism experiences.

A “FOREST KINGDOM” WHERE FORESTS COVER 90% OF THE TOWN

Approximately 90 percent of Shiso City’s total land area is covered by forests. For generations,

forestr y has supported the local economy and daily life. From the Taisho era through the late Showa period (up to the 1960s), forest railways once ran through mountain valleys, playing a vital role in transporting timber. Today, these forest resources are no longer viewed merely as scenic landscapes but have been reimagined as experiential tourism assets.

A FOREST RAILWAY EXPERIENCE REVIVED BY THE COMMUNITY

In the summer of 2023, a community-based organization restored a tourist forest railway at Forest Station Haga, using a diesel locomotive that had previously been employed in erosion control and forestry-related projects. The railway features approximately 2,254 feet of track and a station building, and it operates regularly on weekends. This experience allows visitors to physically engage with the history of Shiso City’s forest-

ry industry—to truly “ride through” the city’s past. The facility also includes hot spring baths and accommodation, while a nearby roadside station offers opportunities to purchase local specialty products.

FOREST THERAPY IN THE “WESTERN OIRASE GORGE”

Shiso City is also one of the first areas in Hyogo Prefecture to be certified as a Forest Therapy Base. Among its highlights is Akasai Gorge, which is often referred to as the “Western Oirase Gorge” due to its resemblance to the famous Oirase Stream in Aomori Prefecture.

Paths that once served as forest railway routes along the gorge have now been developed into therapy trails. Surrounded by waterfalls, clear streams, and towering trees, the area offers a tranquil and restorative environment. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal scener y throughout the city, including Fukuchi Gorge

Discover the Wild Side of Ontario in Algonquin Provincial Park

Escape the busy city and discover the breathtaking wilderness of Algonquin Provincial Park, one of Canada’s most iconic natural landscapes. Located just a few hours from Toronto, Algonquin offers visitors the chance to explore pristine lakes, endless forests, and some of Ontario's best wildlife viewing.

At Algonquin Adventure Tours, we specialize in guided outdoor adventures designed for both Toronto residents and international travellers looking to experience the authentic Canadian wilderness. Our experienced guides help you explore the park safely while sharing knowledge about the

wildlife, landscapes, and history that make Algonquin so special.

Paddle quietly across crystal clear lakes by canoe, camp beside remote shorelines, and watch the sunset over the forest.

Along the way, you may encounter some of Algonquin’s incredible wildlife, including moose, beavers, loons, deer, foxes, and even wolves. Early mornings on the lakes are especially magical, when mist rises from the water and wildlife begins to move through the forest.

Our guided adventures include canoe camping trips through Algonquin’s famous lakes and waterways, fishing tours targeting trout and bass in beautiful,

remote lakes, wildlife photogra phy and birding tours for nature enthusiasts, scenic biking and hik ing adventures, and comfortable glamping experiences for visitors who want to enjoy nature with added comfort.

Whether you are visiting Canada for the first time or looking for a weekend escape from Toronto, our tours are designed to help you experi ence the beauty, wildlife, and peaceful wilderness that make Algonquin Provincial Park world-famous.

Discover the wild side of Canada and book your adventure today at AlgonquinTours.com

(praised by renowned Japanese author Seiko Tanabe) and the Onzui area, where remnants of former forest railways remain.

FERMENTATION CULTURE AS THE BIRTHPLACE OF JAPANESE SAKE

Shiso City also positions itself as the birthplace of Japanese sake.

The Harima Fudoki, the oldest surviving regional chronicle in Japan, records that sake was brewed at Niwata Shrine, indicating that fermentation culture has been rooted in the area since ancient times.

In the Yamazaki district, a historic sake brewery street remains active today, with two breweries continuing production. Visitors can experience Japanese sake culture through brewery tours and tastings.

One long-established brewery, founded in 1768, also operates a dining venue focused on fermented foods—presenting

A NEW REGIONAL TOURISM MODEL CREATED THROUGH FORESTS, FERMENTATION, AND EXPERIENCE

Shiso City has developed model itineraries that combine forest therapy, gorge walks, heritage forest railway rides, and Japanese sake and fermentation-based cuisine. These itineraries offer flexible options ranging from day trips to overnight stays.

In 2025, Shiso City marks the 20th anniversary of its municipal establishment. As it does so, the city is strengthening its outreach to domestic and international travelers as a sustainable tourism destination centered on nature and culture.

Rather than mass tourism, Shiso City offers travel focused on meaning and experience. Quietly yet convincingly, it presents the essential appeal of Japan’s regional landscapes and traditions.

(Source: Tourism Media Service/Shiso City Tourism

“Live

When summer settles over Western New York, Ellicottville becomes a village humming with energy, colour, and celebration. Known for its blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, this mountain-ringed getaway reaches its peak during the Ellicottville Summer Music Festival, July 3-5—a weekend where the hills pulse with live performances, community spirit, and unforgettable summer nights. If you’re looking for a destination that pairs great music with outdoor play, delicious food, and a walkable village full of personality, Ellicottville is ready to welcome you.

The festival sets the rhythm for the season, drawing visitors from across the region to gather

Loud. Play Hard. Summer in Ellicottville.”

on the slopes of Holiday Valley. Imagine warm evenings stretched out on the grass, the sun dipping behind the ridgeline, and the stage lighting up as bands deliver the soundtrack to your summer. From high-energy acts to crowd-pleasing favourites and fireworks that illuminate the valley, the Summer Music Festival is more than an event—it’s a tradition that captures the essence of Ellicottville at its most vibrant.

But the music is just the beginning. One of Ellicottville’s greatest charms is its walkable village core, where everything feels close, connected, and inviting. Within just a few blocks, you’ll find boutiques, cafés, galleries, and restaurants that

There are a few more things you should know about Nova Scotia, beyond the fact that we export extraordinary hockey players and sit somewhere north of Maine. But where to begin? We have over 13,300 kilometres of pristine coastline. We call everyone “Dear” (so please don’t take offense). And our Stanfield International Airport is named for the gentleman who invented long john underwear. That very same airport is a pleasant drive from White Point Beach Resort—whose story began in 1928, when a nature-seeking entrepreneur founded a hunting and fishing paradise on a long stretch of beach along the province’s South Shore. This is also where your story begins.

WAKE UP WITH THE ATLANTIC

If birdsong and crashing waves drag you from your oceanside cottage at an ungodly hour, know this: we claim to have invented morning people. It’s the sunrise that gets you. Grab a coffee from our mothership, the Main Lodge, and head toward the Atlantic like a lovestruck seal. Slip your feet

make wandering the streets a pleasure. Start your morning with a handcrafted latte, browse locally owned shops for unique finds, or sample gourmet treats that highlight the flavours of the region. The pace is relaxed, the smiles are genuine, and the village’s welcoming energy sets the tone for a perfect festival weekend.

Dining in Ellicottville is an experience all its own. Whether you’re craving a farm-fresh meal, a lively pub atmosphere, or a cozy spot for wine and conversation, the village offers a surprising variety for its size. During festival weekend, patios buzz with excitement as visitors and locals mingle, share stories, and gear up for the evening’s

performances. Live music often spills out of bars and onto the sidewalks, creating a soundtrack that carries through the village long after the main stage winds down. For those who crave adventure between sets, Ellicottville delivers in every season. Summer brings golfers to Holiday Valley’s scenic 18-hole course and thrill-seekers to Sky High Adventure Park, where treetop obstacles and zip lines offer a rush of adrenaline. Mountain bikers can head to HoliMont, where a network of downhill trails provides everything from smooth flow to technical challenge. Prefer something slower paced? Explore hiking trails, cast a line in nearby streams, or take a scenic drive through the

Enchanted Mountains.

What makes Ellicottville truly special is the way it blends all these experiences into one seamless getaway. Spend the day exploring the outdoors, then stroll into the village for dinner, drinks, and live music. With everything so close, you can focus on enjoying the moment—not managing logistics. This summer, let the music lead you to a place where adventure, flavour, and fun come together. Discover Ellicottville—and discover why visitors return year after year, already humming next summer’s tune.

Learn more at ellicottvilleny.com

Wake Up Beside the Atlantic Ocean

into the surf and discover that locally crafted ales aren’t the only refreshing liquids on tap at White Point—it is the Atlantic Ocean, after all. Wander down the beach toward the golf course and spot other early birds along the way. Watch for our protected piping plovers, and the gossipy gulls who stick around year-round.

DAY TRIPS, WINE SIPS, & SOUTH SHORE WANDERS

White Point isn’t just perfectly situated for sitting in a private hot tub with nothing but your thoughts— it’s also the ideal launching pad for day trips. Visit the UNESCO-designated Old Town of Lunenburg or Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site. Affectionately known as Keji, it’s where you can explore Mi’kmaw petroglyphs and traditional canoe routes before looping back to the Lodge for happy hour.

Speaking of which, Nova Scotia is known as the Napa of the North for good reason. Zip across to the Annapolis Valley to witness the world’s craziest tides and sip your way through more vineyards than you can possibly hit in a day. Prefer to stay put? We’ll pour you a glass of

Tidal Bay—Nova Scotia’s signature white wine appellation, launched in 2012 to reflect our cool climate, coastal terroir, and bright acidity. We’ll raise a toast in honour of our Celtic roots with a Slàinte.

MAKE IT YOUR KIND OF AFTERNOON

Afternoons see White Pointers happily scattering in every direction—to pickleball, golf, the Ocean Spa, or the bocce ball campo (often googling the rules as they pass bunnies on the path). The adventurous borrow bikes, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards. The artsy paint rocks. The curious can explore local history at Birchtown’s Black

Loyalist Heritage Centre or the Fort Point Lighthouse in nearby Liverpool—home to artists and a mystical forest known as Concrete Creations. The blissfully lazy nap on the beach or their cottage porch. And that’s perfectly okay, too. Make yourself at home in a Lakeside Glome, an Oceanfront Treehouse, or a classic Canadiana cottage. We’re accessible, kidfriendly, dog-friendly, and planetfriendly—boasting a hard-earned Green Key Distinction we’re awfully proud of.

AFTER HOURS AT WHITE POINT

As the sun fades, White Point’s

welcoming Main Lodge becomes something of a lighthouse, guiding those with a thirst for more than just life. Founder’s Lounge is where new friends meet by the beach-stone fireplace—over a hand of cribbage and live local music. If these wood-lined walls could talk, they’d recall generations of laughter, love, and lies about that mulligan on the fourth hole. We fuel our family with fresh, local, farm- and sea-to-table cuisine prepared by an enthusiastic kitchen. No one goes hungry when fishing boats drift by. Magic hour is when darkness tosses a sweater over your shoulders and holds your hand on the way to a beachside bonfire. This is the original social network—marshmallows on sticks become s’mores, strangers become friends, and sparks and conversations swim skyward toward the stars. Isn’t it funny how the same sky can look so different when you’re happy?

So the question remains: who could use a big ol’ Nova Scotian hug? The answer is undeniably you. Let’s get you here.

Plan your getaway at WhitePoint.com

A Nature Lover's Resort on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia

Tucked into the breathtaking scenery of Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore, Liscombe Lodge Resort is a nature lover’s getaway where river views, forest trails, and fresh ocean air set the pace. It’s an easy twohour drive from Halifax, yet once you arrive, the world feels quieter, greener, and wonderfully unhurried. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couple’s retreat, or a friends’ weekend, Liscombe Lodge is designed for travellers who want both comfort and the outdoors at their doorstep.

ACCOMMODATIONS MADE FOR RELAXING

With a range of stays, Liscombe Lodge makes it easy to find your perfect fit. Choose a private guestroom in the main lodge, settle into a riverside chalet, or enjoy the extra space of motel-style accommodations. Many options place you close to the Liscomb River, so mornings begin with birdsong and the soothing sound of rushing water. The overall vibe is rustic and comfortable, with the kind of peaceful setting that invites early nights, slow coffee, and time well spent together.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, ON-SITE FUN

Days at Liscombe Lodge can be as active or as laid-back as you like. Start with the resort’s hiking trails, then take a trip to a nearby waterfall and fish ladder for a memorable scenic stop. For time on the water, guests can use free canoes, kayaks, and stand-up

A Perfect Waterfront

When you’re craving a change of pace without the long haul, Sarnia-Lambton delivers an easy, refreshing escape from the GTA. Just a few hours west, this waterfront destination offers crisp lake air, scenic trails, standout local flavours, and a relaxed rhythm that feels worlds away from city life.

This one-day (or overnight) itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the region, following the shoreline

paddleboards, or join a boat cruise around Liscomb Harbour for a different view of the shoreline. Back on land, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Play a round on the tennis and pickleball court, try outdoor shuffleboard, or challenge your crew to the lifesize outdoor chess board. When you’re ready to unwind, head to the indoor pool with two hot tubs and steam showers, or gather around the outdoor fire pits as the evening cools down. If the weather turns, the indoor games room keeps the fun going.

WEDDINGS, CORPORATE RETREATS, AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Liscombe Lodge Resort and Conference Centre is also a premier destination for weddings, corporate events, retreats, and special gatherings, with a relaxed and secluded setting that helps guests truly disconnect and get back to nature. Couples can choose an outdoor ceremony beside the river in the resort’s beautiful grove, or host an indoor celebration in Wadd’s Lounge, featuring cathedral ceilings, a large wood-burning fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows

overlooking the Liscomb River. The resort can accommodate up to 120 guests, and offers personalized professional event planning, well-appointed accommodations, versatile menus, and memorable outdoor spaces for bonfires, BBQs, and riverside dances.

RIVERSIDE DINING WITH MARITIME FLAVOUR

After a day outside, the Riverside Dining Room is the reward. Expect local maritime cuisine paired with spectacular river views, from the lodge’s signature Atlantic salmon to comforting favourites and a chef-attended breakfast bar. It’s the kind of dining experience that feels both special and relaxed, with the landscape doing half the ambience work for you.

THE EASY CHOICE FOR MEMORY-MAKING

Between the natural setting, family-friendly amenities, and everything-to-do convenience, Liscombe Lodge is the kind of resort where days fill up quickly and feel-good moments come naturally.

For more information, visit liscombelodge.ca

Day Trip from the GTA: Discover Sarnia & Point Edward

of the St. Clair River and Lake Huron from morning coffee to golden-hour sunsets.

MORNING COFFEE IN POINT EDWARD

Start your day in the charming village of Point Edward at The Bridge Patisserie & Café. Known for expertly brewed coffee and irresistible pastries, it’s the perfect place to ease into the day. Grab a seat, enjoy a warm breakfast

treat, and take in the relaxed small-town energy before heading out to explore.

EXPLORE THE WATERFRONT ON FOOT OR BIKE

From there, make your way to Great Lakes Bicycle Company, where you can rent a bike or prepare your own for a scenic ride. Walk or cycle beneath the iconic Bluewater Bridge, watching massive freighters glide between Lake Huron and the St. Clair River. With quieter paths and cooler air outside the peak summer season, this stretch of waterfront feels especially immersive and peaceful.

NATURE BREAK AT CANATARA PARK

Continue your journey at Canatara Park, one of Sarnia’s most loved green spaces. Winding trails, open parkland, and sweeping water views make it an ideal place to slow down, stretch your legs, and reconnect with nature. It’s also a great spot for photos—no filter required.

LUNCH WITH BOLD FLAVOUR

After a morning outdoors, refuel at Los Puntos Cantina, a local favourite known for vibrant flavours and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, margaritas, or something with a little heat, this stop adds a lively energy to your day.

MAKE IT AN OVERNIGHT ESCAPE

If you decide to turn your visit into a relaxed overnight getaway, Four Points by Sheraton Sarnia offers a convenient waterfront stay. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to trails, dining, and river views, it’s an ideal home base—and a front-row seat to life along the water.

SHOP LOCAL IN DOWNTOWN SARNIA

Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Sarnia’s independent shops. Discover curated goods at River Bank & Co, browse for hidden gems at The Vault, and find stylish home accents at Kind Décor. It’s an easy way to support local businesses

while taking home something uniquely Sarnia-Lambton.

SUNSET STROLL IN BRIGHT’S GROVE

Wrap up your day with a short drive north to Bright’s Grove. A walk along the shoreline as the sun sets over Lake Huron is a must. This time of year, the skies often glow with rich colours—and the beach feels calm, uncrowded, and effortlessly scenic.

AN EASY ESCAPE WORTH SLOWING DOWN FOR Whether you’re planning a spontaneous day trip from the GTA or a laid-back overnight stay, Sarnia-Lambton offers a refreshing mix of food, nature, shopping, and waterfront beauty—without the crowds. Sometimes, the best way to experience Sarnia-Lambton is simply to slow down, follow the water, and enjoy the moment.

Start planning your trip today at ontbluecoast.com

Gather in Grey - Savour the Taste of Community

In the heart of Ontario, Grey County reveals itself through flavours, landscapes, and moments that stay with you long after you leave. Rolling farmland, escarpment views, and small towns shaped by creativity and care come together to form a region where food, culture, and community are deeply connected.

Begin your journey in the Town of The Blue Mountains, where orchards sweep across the hills, and some of Ontario’s most celebrated cider makers transform local apples into award-winning blends. Trails lead you along the Niagara Escarpment, and every stop offers a chance to slow down and take in the view.

Following the Georgian Bay shoreline, the Municipality of Meaford blends culture with lakeside calm. Harbour sunsets, performances at Meaford Hall, and menus crafted with ingredients sourced from nearby producers reflect a community grounded in tradition and creativity. A place to pause, savour, and settle into the moment.

The City of Owen Sound brings the region’s culinary spirit into focus. Its historic farmers’ market, global flavours, and inventive kitchens like Naagan by Chef Zach Keeshig, showcase a food scene shaped by diverse voices and inspired by the abundance of local producers. Grey County chefs continue to garner attention for their inventive, heartfelt cuisine, proudly connected to the growers and makers around them.

Waterfalls and natural character define Georgian Bluffs, where Inglis, Indian, and Jones Falls carve spectacular views out of the escarpment. The iconic Keady Market connects farmers, bakers, and artisans each week on Tuesday, while Cobble Beach, a lakeside golf resort with an inn, spa, and exceptional dining, pairs sweeping Georgian Bay views with regional flavours.

In Grey Highlands, dramatic lookouts, farm gates, and small batch artisans speak to a community shaped by the land. Cheeses, produce, maple syrup, and thoughtful craftsmanship define the region’s identity—nourishment that begins at the source. Across Chatsworth, Southgate, and Hanover, life unfolds in

meaningful ways: Mennonite and Amish markets, community festivals, cafés, and bakeries that honour longstanding traditions. Honest food. Kind people. A genuine sense of place.

And through West Grey, the Saugeen River winds past heritage towns, art studios, local producers, and one of Ontario’s oldest breweries, Neustadt Springs Breweries. A landscape built on connection.

Grey County isn’t just somewhere you visit; it’s a feeling. It’s home.

A bite, a smile, a story. Gather in Grey - Savour the Taste of community. GatherInGrey.ca

May is the kick-off for many lively festivals in beautiful Ottawa, Canada. The Tulip Festival, running from May 8 to 18, is a wondrous display of colour along the landmark Rideau Canal. The Tulip Festival began with a special gift: the Royal Family of the Kingdom of the Netherlands took refuge in Ottawa during the Second World War, and Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet was born here in 1943. Two years later, Canadian troops played a key role in liberating the Netherlands. In gratitude, the Dutch government has sent Canada a gift of tulip bulbs every year since 1945, inspiring what would become the Canadian Tulip Festival.

MUSIC, SUMMER CELEBRATIONS, AND DAY TRIPS

For music lovers, June and July bring a lineup of outdoor concerts and festivals, including Jazzfest and Bluesfest, featuring world-renowned bands and performers. Celebrate Canada Day with us on July 1 and be amazed by the fireworks display. Tour our historic city, visit the Parliament Buildings, and watch the daily Changing of the Guard. Our many museums will delight both children and adults. Nearby Gatineau Park and the Gatineau Hills are just a 20-minute drive from the Cartier Place Suite Hotel. Explore Gatineau Park’s many trails and the ruins of the Mackenzie King Estate.

STAY IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN

The Cartier Place Suite Hotel offers the perfect central downtown location for visiting Ottawa’s top sites. We’re just one block from the picturesque Rideau Canal and trendy Elgin Street, home to many boutiques and restaurants. Walk to the ByWard Market to browse handmade crafts and fragrant local produce stalls. Whether you visit for one night or an extended stay, the Cartier Place Suite Hotel will take care of your every need—and it’s also ideal for small weddings and meetings.

SPACIOUS SUITES AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMENITIES

The hotel has been honoured with hospitality awards over the years, including the ‘Service Excellence Award’ from Booking.com and Hotels.com. Our pet-friendly suite hotel is a favourite among families and business travellers, and features complimentary WiFi throughout

the property. Each spacious suite has a private balcony, a full kitchen, a

Strathroy-Caradoc: A Growing Destination for Business and Opportunity

As communities across the Greater Toronto Area continue to experience rapid growth and rising costs, more visitors and investors are looking west for opportunity. Located just 30 minutes from London and under two hours from Toronto, the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc offers a compelling alternative, combining strategic location, growth-ready infrastructure, and a high quality of life.

Strathroy-Caradoc is a community on the move. With convenient access to Highway 402 and major transportation corridors, the municipality is well-positioned for business expansion, logistics, and regional connectivity. Investors benefit from available industrial and commercial lands, a supportive municipal environment, and proximity to Southwestern Ontario’s skilled workforce. The municipality continues to invest in infrastructure, planning, and services to support sustainable economic growth.

Beyond its business advantages, Strathroy-Caradoc delivers a lifestyle that continues to attract families, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking balance. The community offers charming downtown areas, established neighbourhoods, and new residential developments, all set against a backdrop of farmland and green space. Residents enjoy shorter commutes, accessible services, and a strong sense of community without sacrificing modern amenities.

Visitors to Strathroy-Caradoc

quickly discover a welcoming destination with plenty to explore. From local shops, restaurants, and seasonal markets to festivals, recreation facilities, and scenic trails, the municipality offers experiences that feel authentic and unhurried. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Southwestern Ontario, from nearby conservation areas and cultural attractions to the shores of Lake Huron or Lake Erie. What truly sets StrathroyCaradoc apart is its commitment to thoughtful growth. Municipal leadership prioritizes collaboration, transparency, and long-term

planning, ensuring development aligns with community values while remaining responsive to market demand. This balanced approach creates confidence in investors and a sense of stability for residents and visitors alike.

For those in the Greater Toronto Area looking for a place to invest, visit, or reimagine what community can feel like, Strathroy-Caradoc offers space to grow, room to breathe, and opportunity without compromise.

Discover Strathroy-Caradoc at strathroy-caradoc.ca or visit investstrathroy-caradoc.ca

Eight Ways to Ease into Spring in Northumberland County

If winter had you nesting indoors, Northumberland County is your gentle reset: sugar-shack weekends, fresh-air trails before the bugs arrive, picturesque bike rides, and small towns that invite you to linger. Add in spas, shopping, and culinary delights, and you’ve got the perfect spring getaway.

Choose from five looped routes, mountain-bike trails, and connections to provincial and national trail systems—then reward yourself with a snack stop in a nearby town.

5. SHOP YOUR WAY INTO A NEW SEASON

From wardrobe staples to one-of-

7. MAKE PLANS FOR A COLOURFUL DAY Northumberland shows its colours through art. The Northumberland Arts Gallery in Port Hope, the Colborne Art Gallery, and the Presqu’ile Waddling Arts Centre in Brighton show off the region’s diverse artists. Visit the Art Gallery of Northumberland at the historic Victoria Hall in Cobourg to see featured artists as well as exhibitions from the extensive permanent collection. And don’t forget to check out boutiques and coffee shops in NoCo communities that curate and sell the work of local artisans.

8. FIND YOUR THIRD PLACE After a season of hibernation at home, return to the places that make community feel easy: cafés, breweries, restaurants, and creative workshops where you can connect with locals and fellow travellers— and stay just a little longer than you planned.

GO NORTHUMBERLANDING northumberlanding.ca to learn more and sign up for the monthly tourism newsletter.

Rooted in River, Rich in Story: The Miramichi Region

Defined by the legendary Miramichi River, the Miramichi Region in northeastern New Brunswick is a place where history, culture, and everyday life flow together. The river has a way of keeping you grounded. It shapes the pace of the day, the stories people tell, and the way our region welcomes you in.

WHERE NATURE SETS THE PACE

Out here in the great outdoors, the fresh air and open space leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Whether it’s casting a line into quiet water, hiking forest trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, biking along the riverbanks, or simply pausing to take it all in, the Miramichi Region invites you to reconnect with yourself in nature.

A COMMUNITY THAT WELCOMES YOU

What truly makes our region special, though, is the people. There’s a deep pride in community, in small businesses rooted in generations of hard work, and in neighbours who still wave as they pass. You’ll feel it in the locally owned cafés, at festivals and gatherings throughout the year, and in the stories shared with locals during your visit.

STORIES THAT SHAPE THE REGION

The region reflects deep Mi’kmaq roots alongside Acadian, Irish, Scottish, and English settler stories—a blend of cultures that continues to shape the food, music, traditions, and unmistakable Maritime warmth you’ll find here

Plan the Perfect Summer in Vaughan

Just north of Toronto, in Southern Ontario’s York Region, Vaughan is the perfect base for summer adventure—close enough for a quick day trip, packed enough for a full weekend, and well-connected for visitors who want to explore more of the GTA. Think big attractions, standout shopping, delicious eats, and plenty of ways to unwind, with festivals and seasonal happenings keeping the city buzzing from May through September, and beyond. Plan ahead, and you can line up the events that excite you most, book a convenient place to stay, and build an itinerary that keeps everyone happy—kids, teens, and adults included.

BUILD YOUR ITINERARY

Before you book, take a look at the City’s event calendar and pick your dates with purpose. Many of the biggest celebrations gather in and around the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC), where downtown energy meets easy transit access. When you plan early, you can snag a hotel close to the action, map out your must-dos, and leave room for the best part of summer travel: spontaneous detours for

ice cream, shopping, or one more round of games.

FESTIVAL SEASON IN FULL SWING

Kick off summer at Vaughan Ribfest 2026, returning over the Victoria Day long weekend (May 15–18) at Assembly Park in the IKEA Plaza. Expect mouth-watering BBQ and classic festival bites alongside live music—an easy win for families and friends looking for a fun and delicious outing. On Saturday, July 11 the

Vaughan Latin Festival 2026 brings a full day of culture and celebration to Mackenzie Glen District Park (220 Cranston Park Avenue, Maple) from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. With Latin dance, folklore, live music, vendors and artisans, traditional cuisine, plus a Kids Zone with a water park, it’s a vibrant way to spend a summer Saturday—and admission is free.

STAY IN VAUGHAN FOR CONCERT NIGHTS

Planning to catch a concert this

summer? Stay in Vaughan and make the journey simple. With subway access at the VMC, you’re five stops from Rogers Stadium and about a 45-minute ride to the heart of downtown Toronto. Several hotels are a quick seven-minute walk to the subway station, so you can skip the parking stress, enjoy dinner before the show, and head back for an easy night’s sleep.

PLAY NEAR THE VMC Keep the fun close with attractions in and around the VMC

today. That heritage lives on in the stories shared across generations, in cultural experiences that honour the land and its history, and in communities that take pride in preserving the spirit of our region while welcoming others to experience it.

Visiting the Miramichi Region isn’t just a trip you take. It’s an experience that stays with you—in the stories shared, the people you’ve met, and the quiet moments spent along the river that seem to linger long after you’ve headed home. We’re proud to share our home with you, and we look forward to welcoming you back again and again.

Learn more and start planning your visit at DiscoverMiramichi.com

area. Dave & Buster’s combines a restaurant, bar, and arcade under one roof—ideal for a rainy-day plan or an after-dinner activity. For high-energy family time, Air Riderz delivers wall-to-wall trampolines, climb zones, and activities designed for all ages. Round out the day at Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre, one of Canada’s largest enclosed shopping and entertainment destinations, then add LEGO-sized excitement at the LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre located in the mall. If thrills are on your wish list, Canada’s Wonderland is nearby, making it easy to pair rollercoasters and waterpark fun with shopping and indoor play.

PLAN YOUR GETAWAY Come hungry, bring your comfy shoes, and leave room in the schedule for “one more adventure.” Between festival weekends, arcade nights, rollercoasters, and a little retail therapy, it’s the kind of summer that turns into a highlight reel fast.

Plan your summer today at visitvaughan.ca/summer

The Surprising Ways Your Diet Affects Your Oral Health

Small, everyday choices are often what shape us, and oral health is no exception. Daily decisions about what you eat and drink can affect your teeth and gums in important ways, and with April being Oral Health Month, it’s important to re-examine the choices that shape us and how they affect our oral health. Here’s why it’s important to make careful choices about your diet.

Your food can make your teeth and gums stronger…or weaker. Dietary choices can have a big impact on your oral health. Sugar in particular can harm your mouth by creating fuel for bacteria there, so try to avoid, or at least be mindful of, the following items:

• Carbonated beverages: they often contain sugar and are

also acidic, both of which are bad for tooth enamel.

• Sugar y snacks, especially chewy, sticky ones: they can get stuck on or between teeth.

Sticky starches, such as potato chips, crackers, white breads, and pasta: these starches break down into sugars.

• Food and drinks that are high in acid, such as pickles, citrus juices, vinegars, and wine.

Just because a food contains acids or natural sugars doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t eat it. Just make sure to hydrate with water after eating to help wash those sugars away.

Some food choices can actually benefit your mouth, including:

• Yogur t and cheese, which contain calcium to support healthy teeth.

• Dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, which are high in enamel-building calcium.

• Low-sugar, high-protein

snacks, such as almonds and other nuts, which help support your teeth and gums.

• Cr unchy veggies and fruits, such as apples, which act as natural toothbrushes, sweep harmful residue off your teeth.

Listen to what your mouth is telling you. It’s important to pay close attention to your teeth and gums—oral health issues can sometimes be an early warning of a nutritional deficiency. For example:

• Swollen and bleeding gums, even with regular flossing, can be a sign that you’re not getting enough vitamin C.

• A smooth, overly red, or painful tongue may mean a vitamin B deficiency.

• More frequent mouth ulcers may signal a lack of iron.

Your oral health needs expert support. It’s essential to schedule regular appointments with a dental hygienist, whether you’re noticing an issue or not. Beyond routine removal of calculus—hard buildups on the teeth—and plaque, dental hygienists can help spot oral health issues early: ones that might point to a nutritional problem, as well as even more serious conditions such as periodontitis or even cancer. They can also provide tips for improving your oral health, which supports your overall health. By making more conscious food choices, you can make a real impact on your health. Your teeth and gums will thank you, and so will the rest of you.

(Source: NewsCanada)

A Slice of Something New: Smash Burger Tacos à la Bergeron

The Bergeron family has spent decades perfecting their cheese.

Founded in 1989 in Saint-Antoinede-Tilly, Québec, Fromagerie Bergeron shares generations of cheese-making expertise passed down within the family.

Innovation is part of the Bergeron legacy. When changing regulations made cheddar production difficult,

the Bergerons made a bold pivot, introducing Gouda to a Canadian market that had barely even heard of it. But it paid off, and today, Fromagerie Bergeron are Canada’s Gouda masters, known for their signature taste and iconic red wax coating.

Over the years, the family has continued to push boundaries, introducing products like naturally

smoked cheeses, cumin-infused varieties, and their celebrated washed-rind Fin Renard. Now led by the fourth generation, the company remains committed to producing high-quality, approachable cheeses designed to bring people together around the table.

And when it comes to innovative, flavour-forward cooking, Fromagerie

Bergeron’s Inspiration Slicers make it effortless to bring that craftsmanship straight to your table. This versatile assortment of Gouda, Cheddar, and Swiss cheeses makes everyday cooking easy and delicious. Conveniently packaged and perfectly portioned, these slices melt beautifully and pair well with everything from quick snacks to elevated comfort food. Try

them as a snack, in sandwiches, in burgers, on crackers, or in raclette. For drink pairings, try a blonde or brown ale, a light, fruity red wine, or a dry, fruity white wine.

Looking to put them to the test?

These Smash Burger Tacos à la Bergeron are a flavour-packed twist on two classics, perfect for casual dinners or weekend gatherings. SMASH BURGER TACOS À LA BERGERON SERVES 6 • PREP TIME: 15 MIN • COOK TIME: 20 MIN

Directions

Ingredients

FOR THE SMASH BURGER TACOS

• 454 g (1 lb) of ground beef

15 ml (1 tbsp) of Mexican chili powder

• 5 ml (1 tsp) of salt

• 6 15 cm (6 in) wheat tortillas

Smoked Slices

TO SERVE

• Spicy mayonnaise

Avocado slices

• Lime wedges

• Cherry tomatoes

• Crushed spicy tortilla-style chips

FOR THE SMASH BURGER TACOS:

1 Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Place a baking tray near the oven.

2 In a bowl, thoroughly mix the ground beef with the chili powder and salt.

3 Divide the meat into 6 portions. Spread each portion of meat directly onto a tortilla, pressing down so it adheres well. Cover the entire surface completely, as the meat will shrink during cooking.

4 In a lightly oiled pan over medium-high heat, place a filled tortilla, meat side down.

5 Cook for 3 minutes, pressing lightly with a spatula. Carefully turn over and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet, add a slice of Bergeron smoked cheese on top of the meat, and keep warm in the oven.

6 Repeat the steps to cook all the tortillas.

TO SERVE:

• Top each taco with spicy mayonnaise, avocado slices, a squeeze of lime juice, cherry tomatoes, and crushed tortilla chips. Serve immediately

INSPIRATION, CRACKER CUT SLICES

Meet the ultimate cheese selection for any occasion! Inspirations cracker cut slices bring together a delicious assortment of Gouda, Cheddar, and Swiss cheese, pre-sliced for perfect portions.

From a quick snack right out of the fridge to elevating your favourite sandwiches, burgers, canapés, or even a cozy raclette—these versatile slices are ready for anything.

Packaged in a convenient, resealable tray, they stay fresh and are easy to use every day.

A Restaurant-Worthy Appetizer Easily Prepared at Home

Whether you’re looking to up your game the next time you host or just enjoy a healthy dish, this elevated appetizer does the trick. It contrasts flavours and textures, combining the crunch of cucumber, the soft savouriness of crab, and the natural sweetness of prunes. Delicious and visually striking, this appetizer will leave an impression whenever you serve it.

CRAB AND PRUNES SALSA STACK

PREP TIME: 20 MINS • SERVINGS: 4 STACKS

Ingredients

PRUNES AND BEET LAYER

• 14 California prunes, diced

• 1/3 cup (75 ml) minced pickled beets

• 1 green onion, finely sliced

CRAB LAYER

½ lb (227 g) lump crab meat

• 1 small tomato, finely diced

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped dill 1/4 tsp (1 ml) pepper

CUCUMBER LAYER

• 1 Persian cucumber, finely diced

• 1/3 cup (75 ml) finely diced radish

• Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp (5 ml) lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

BASE LAYER

2 ripe avocados, diced

ACCOMPANIMENTS

• Dill for garnish

1/2 cup (125ml) store-bought crispy onions

• Crispy fried wonton skins or thin crackers to serve

Directions

1 In a bowl, combine prunes, beets, and green onion.

2 In a second bowl, combine crab, mayonnaise, tomato, dill, and pepper.

3 In a third bowl, combine cucumber, radish, lemon zest, and juice. Salt and pepper to taste.

4 To assemble the stack, use a tall 3-inch round biscuit cutter or make one from an empty plastic food jar or metal can of the same diameter.

5 Place the mould onto a plate, and spoon about 1/4 of the diced avocado into the mould.

NUTRITION NOTES:

Tamp down gently with a wooden muddler or shot glass to create an even layer. Add 1/4 of the crab layer and repeat tamping. Add 1/4 of the prune mixture and tamp to even out the layer. Tamp in 1/4 of the cucumber layer. Gently lift up the mould while holding layers down with the tamper. Repeat steps to make 3 more stacks.

6 Garnish each stack with equal amounts of the crispy onions and dill.

7 Serve with crispy wonton skins or crackers.

The crab meat contains protein, and the mayo and avocado provide healthy fats. The assortment of vegetables and fruits, including cucumbers, radishes, and tomatoes, provides vitamins and antioxidants. And prunes contain a unique combination of fibre, sorbitol, and polyphenols that support gut health.

(Source: NewsCanada)

Light, Creamy Ekmek for Spring Entertaining

For many people, spring is a time of renewal. There’s nothing like coming out of a cold and snowy winter to add a spring to your step! That energetic attitude can also extend to the food we eat. With the crisp and clean spring air, we can be drawn to lighter meals, made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Knowing where those ingredients come from can be equally important, especially with many of us looking to buy local and Canadian products. When it comes

to eggs, the journey from farm to table is an easy one to share. Behind every carton of Grade

A eggs in the grocery store is an Ontario farmer who is proud to provide fresh eggs to consumers across the province. With over 500 egg and pullet farmers across Ontario, eggs are fresh, high-quality, and go from farm to grocery store in only four to seven days.

Look for the Canada Grade A or Egg Quality AssuranceTM (EQA®) symbol to know you are buying

eggs that meet rigorous standards of on-farm food safety and animal care programs. Don’t forget the most important part of sourcing high-quality ingredients—eating them! This delicious Ekmek recipe is perfect to serve at any holiday meal or just as a special treat. It’s a twist on a traditional Greek dessert that looks like spring served up in a dish. Enjoy!

For more recipes, visit getcracking.ca/recipes

EKMEK SERVINGS: 6 • PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 30 MINUTES

Ingredients

• 2 cups (500 ml) packed Kataifi pastry

• ¼ cup (60 ml) butter, melted ¼ cup (60 ml) honey

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) water

• 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon juice

• 6 hard-cooked eggs 1 cup (250 ml) sour cream

• ⅔ cup (150 ml) granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract

⅔ cup (150 ml) 35% whipping cream

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) pistachio cream

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) crushed pistachios

Directions

1 Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2 Using fingers, gently pull strands of kataifi pastry apart to loosen. Place pastry on a small baking sheet and toss with melted butter. Spread out

in an even layer. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until golden.

3 In a small bowl, combine honey, water, and lemon juice. Pour over the pastry while still hot and mix. Let cool for 5 minutes, then spoon pastry into six 1-cup (250 ml) or larger serving cups. Tamp down lightly to form a layer.

4 In a blender, combine eggs, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. Divide the mixture equally between cups on top of the pastry.

5 In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, whip cream until firm peaks form. Fold in pistachio cream. Divide equally between cups, layering on top of custard. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 1 hour or until ready to serve.

6 Sprinkle with crushed pistachios just before serving.

Nutrition

Mushrooms and ground meat are a powerful combo upping the nutritional value of your favourite recipes. Mushrooms provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while decreasing calories, saturated fats, and cholesterol.

Sustainability

Mushrooms are one of the most sustainable foods on the planet, so you can feel good about blending them into your recipes!

Blend & Extend What is and why should you do it?

Blend and Extend is an easy food prep hack that combines finely chopped mushrooms and ground meat in recipes to add veggies to your plate, boost flavour, and extend portions.

Adding finely chopped mushrooms to your ground meat boosts flavour, moisture, and extends the recipes you love! Finely chopped mushrooms look similar and blend seamlessly with ground meat, so classics can be satisfying without losing taste or sacrificing texture.

Budget-Friendly

The rising cost of food is being felt everywhere as we try to provide nutrient-dense meals. Blending mushrooms with ground meat extends the portion sizes, bulking up the volume of your favourite meat-based recipes without hurting your pocketbook.

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