creative expression – Forests of Memory. Forests of Learning. Forests for Life.

Celebrating International Music Day: Uniting Through Music in Saskatoon

October 1st marks a significant milestone in the world of music as we celebrate International Music Day, commemorating its 50th golden anniversary next year. Launched in 1975 by the International Music Council and inspired by a 1973 UNESCO resolution, this day is dedicated to promoting music’s universal ability to bridge cultures and connect people from all walks of life. As Henry Wadsworth Longfellow aptly said, “Music is the universal language of mankind.”

For the past five decades, International Music Day has championed music’s role in fostering unity and appreciation across global communities. It serves as a reminder of how music, in all its forms, transcends barriers and resonates with everyone, enriching our lives in countless ways.

Music and Nature: A Harmony of Sounds

In Saskatoon, we have the unique opportunity to blend music appreciation with environmental awareness by incorporating local natural landmarks into our International Music Day celebrations. Consider how music intertwines with nature in our city’s beautiful spaces like the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park. These areas offer an inspiring backdrop for exploring how natural sounds can be musical.

Drawing inspiration from the movie “August Rush,” Imagine the rustling of Trembling Aspen leaves as part of a soothing melody or the songs of Western Meadowlarks, red-winged blackbirds, and American Robins contributing to a natural symphony. Even the rhythmic drumming of Saskatchewan woodpeckers can add a percussive element to our compositions.

American Robin., Turdus migratorius — Downy Wwoodpecker Ddryobates pubescens

Activity Burst Ideas

Grades K-2 – Music Appreciation, Physical Activity, Creative Design

Nature Rhythms Exploration: Take students on a nature walk in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Encourage them to listen to the sounds around them—rustling leaves, bird calls, and even the crunch of footsteps. Use rhythm instruments or homemade instruments like plastic bottles filled with varying levels of liquid to mimic these natural sounds. Have students create their own “nature symphony” by incorporating the sounds they hear.
DIY Musical Instruments: Provide materials such as cardboard tubes, straws, and construction paper. Guide students to create simple musical instruments representing different families of instruments—wind, percussion, or strings. Once completed, let students showcase their creations and explore how they produce different sounds.

Grades 3-5 – Music Appreciation, Creative Movement/Dance, Physical Activity

Dance to Nature’s Beat: Host a dance session in George Genereux Urban Regional Park where students can move freely to the natural rhythm of the environment. Play a selection of music that complements the sounds of nature, and encourage students to express themselves through dance. Afterward, have a discussion on how moving to different music styles affected their mood and energy levels.
Music in the Park: Invite students to create and perform a short dance or movement piece inspired by the natural sounds they observe in the park. Discuss how these movements might reflect the rhythm and flow of the environment.

Grades 6-8 – Music Appreciation, Vocabulary, Graphing, Research

Soundscape Projects: Students can research how different cultures use music to reflect their environment and heritage. Encourage them to present their findings in a multi-media format, incorporating audio clips of music from various cultures and their natural soundscapes.
Music and Environment: Create a project where students analyze and graph their favorite music genres and relate these preferences to the sounds found in local parks. For example, they could explore how the rhythm of a woodpecker’s drumming might influence their perception of a specific genre.
Composer Study: Introduce students to Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, the background music, to the interview between Richard St. Barbe Baker and Barrie Oldfield. Discuss how music can evoke the atmosphere of natural landscapes. Ask students to create their own compositions inspired by the natural beauty of Saskatoon’s parks, reflecting on how these environments can influence musical expression.

Additional Ideas

All Grades – Art, Technology

Instrument Design Challenge: Using basic materials such as boxes, cardboard tubes, and strings, have students design and build their own musical instruments. Encourage them to think about which musical family their instrument belongs to and how it will produce sound. Students can present their creations to the class and explain their design choices.
Nature and Music Integration: Create a project where students record sounds from nature and use them as samples to compose a piece of music. This could be a fun way to integrate technology with music and environmental studies. The Merlin smartphone app will identify bird calls to further the student’s appreciation.

By blending music with our natural surroundings, International Music Day in Saskatoon offers a unique opportunity to explore the harmony between nature and music. Let’s get ready to celebrate this golden anniversary by uniting through the universal language of music and appreciating the natural world that inspires us.

The Trembling Aspen is also referred to as the Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx) Autumn colour of foliage CC 3 Walter Siegmund

Red Winged Blackbird. Chappell Marsh. West Swale Wetlands. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Saskatoon, SK, CA — The Trembling Aspen is also referred to as the Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx) Autumn colour of foliage CC 3 Walter Siegmund

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Celebrating National Comic Book Day: The Green Legacy of Comics and Education

September 25th: A Tribute to Eco-Conscious Comics

National Comic Book Day, observed on September 25th, is a celebration of the art and storytelling of comics. This year, we highlight a unique piece of comic book history—“Green Survival” (1971)—a groundbreaking publication by the American Association of Nurserymen that underscores the importance of integrating nature into urban environments. As we delve into this eco-focused comic, we also explore how modern comic books and graphic novels continue to educate and inspire students about environmental issues.

From Nature’s Adversary to Environmental Ally

“Green Survival” reflects a pivotal shift in how society views nature. In the past, nature was often seen as a threat to be subdued, with homes designed to shield against its forces. The comic book’s narrative critiques this outdated mindset, emphasizing the necessity of reconnecting with the natural world amidst increasing urbanization. As the American Association of Nurserymen eloquently puts it, “Nature, once an adversary to be brought into captivity, is now being recognized as a friend… a vital, life-saving, healing friend.”

The comic advocates for the integration of green spaces in cities to combat pollution, enhance air quality, and improve overall well-being. It champions the concept of ‘Green Survival,’ stressing that the survival of both humanity and the environment depends on embracing and nurturing natural elements within our urban landscapes. The City of Sakatoon parks department initiated the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and the George Genereux Urban Regional Park as tree nurseries under the Green Survival Program – a program which spread across North America in the 1970’s.

Harry Potter themed Orienteering adventure

Educational Opportunities through Comics

Comic books and graphic novels serve as powerful educational tools, especially when exploring complex themes like environmental conservation. By incorporating the Saskatchewan Curriculum’s science and art objectives, educators can use comics to engage students in meaningful learning experiences.

K-2: Nature and Forests Comic Activity

For younger students, a simple and engaging activity involves creating a comic strip about nature. Provide students with blank comic panels and ask them to illustrate a short story about a forest adventure. The story could feature characters discovering the benefits of trees, plants, and wildlife. This activity introduces them to the concept of storytelling through visuals while highlighting the importance of nature.

3-5: Designing and Analyzing Comic Strips

Students in grades 3-5 can deepen their understanding by designing a short comic strip (3-5 frames) on a simple topic, such as “A Day in the Park” or “The Secret of the Forest.” Encourage them to examine various comic books and strips, paying attention to dialogue, punctuation, fonts, and colors. Discuss how these elements contribute to the narrative and character development. Comparing “Green Survival” to other comic genres can help students appreciate the diverse ways comics address environmental issues or how students could create environmental “super heroes” with extraordinary powers.

6-8: Exploring Environmental Graphic Novels

In grades 6-8, students can explore the impact of graphic novels on environmental awareness. Introduce them to works by renowned environmental graphic novel artists like:

Emma Adbåge, known for her eco-conscious themes and vibrant illustrations.
Thierry Smolderen, who integrates environmental messages into his storytelling.
Vikram Madan, who uses his art to highlight conservation efforts.

Discuss how different graphic novel formats and artistic styles effectively convey environmental themes. Analyze how illustrations enhance the storyline and character development, and identify frames that evoke strong emotions related to environmental issues.

Comparing “Green Survival” with Modern Graphic Novels

By comparing “Green Survival” with contemporary graphic novels, students can appreciate the evolution of environmental storytelling. “Green Survival” serves as a historical touchstone, while modern graphic novels often use dynamic visuals and complex narratives to engage readers with current environmental challenges. This comparison provides insight into how the medium has adapted to address pressing ecological concerns such as the threefold planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Why do you think the “Green Survival” program was launched in the 1970’s? Would you consider these two forest namesakes as heroes; Richard St. Barbe Baker, considered as the first Global Conservationist, and George Genereux Canada’s only gold Olympic medalist of 1952? Can forests be havens for science discovery and nature walks, and also foster health and wellness lifestyles?

Engage and Reflect

National Comic Book Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the role of comics in fostering environmental awareness and education. By incorporating activities and discussions that highlight both historical and contemporary approaches to environmental themes, educators can inspire students to become more engaged and informed about the natural world.

Share and Connect

Encourage students and educators to share their comic creations and reflections on social media using the hashtag #ComicBookDay. This celebration not only honors the art of comics but also promotes a greater appreciation for the environment through creative expression.

Cardiovascular benefits, and heart health forest walking — Wildlife in Forest

For directions as to how to drive to “George Genereux” Urban Regional Park

For directions on how to drive to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

For more information:

Blairmore Sector Plan Report; planning for the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, George Genereux Urban Regional Park and West Swale and areas around them inside of Saskatoon city limits

NEW P4G District Official Community Plan

Addresses:

Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A

Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A

S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A

NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063

Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot

Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com

Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map

Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)?with map

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

Blogger: FriendsAfforestation

Tumblr friendsafforestation.tumblr.com Facebook Group Page: Users of the George Genereux Urban Regional Park

Facebook: StBarbeBaker Afforestation Area

Facebook for the non profit Charity Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. FriendsAreas

Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area

Facebook: South West OLRA

Reddit: FriendsAfforestation

Twitter: St Barbe Baker Charity Twitter:FriendsAreas

Mix: friendsareas

YouTube

Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail / e-transfers )

Donate your old vehicle, here’s how!

Support using Canada Helps

Support via a recycling bottle donation

United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Use the UN Decade’s Visual Identity
Make it your own
Spread the word about the UN Decade
Let’s Bring Back Forests
Let’s Green Our Cities

““Be like a tree in pursuit of your cause. Stand firm, grip hard, thrust upward. Bend to the winds of heaven..”

Richard St. Barbe Baker

Celebrating Terry Fox Day: Inspiring Young Heroes in Saskatoon

September 18: A Day to Remember Terry Fox Every year on September 18th, Canadians come together to honor the legacy of Terry Fox, a true national hero whose courage and determination left an indelible mark on the country. Born in Winnipeg and raised in British Columbia, Terry Fox was diagnosed with bone cancer at 18. After the amputation of his right leg, he embarked on his “Marathon of Hope,” a cross-country run to raise funds for cancer research.

Although he had to stop after 143 days and over 5,000 kilometers due to the cancer spreading to his lungs, Terry’s relentless spirit and dedication continue to inspire.

In Saskatoon, we have the opportunity to integrate Terry Fox’s legacy into our local curriculum and celebrate his contributions alongside the natural beauty of our city. This year, let’s engage students with meaningful activities that connect Terry Fox’s story with the local environment and heroes like Bruce Gordon the inspiration for #BeLikeBruce trail in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area, another champion who made significant contributions to cancer research.

Sept 24 clean up at both Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and at George Genereux Urban Regional Park, Saskatoon The Clean Green Community Scene — George Genereux (March 1, 1935 – April 10, 1989) photo courtesy SPL b-8759

George Genereux (March 1, 1935 – April 10, 1989) photo courtesy SPL b-8759

Grades K-2: Understanding Real HeroesFor our youngest students, introduce the concept of heroism through Terry Fox’s story and local landmarks. Start by discussing what makes someone a hero. Highlight Terry Fox’s bravery and his fight against cancer, contrasting it with fictional superheroes. Engage students in a simple but impactful art project:

Activity: Create a “Hero Hat” or a “Hero Medal” using materials like construction paper, markers, and stickers. Ask students to decorate their hats with symbols representing what makes someone a hero. These could be hearts for kindness, stars for bravery, or other symbols they feel represent heroism. Have students wear their hats as they share what they believe makes Terry Fox a hero and how they can be heroes in their own lives by doing small acts of kindness.

Grades 3-5: Exploring Heroism and Community For students in Grades 3-5, dive deeper into the characteristics of heroes and integrate local knowledge about Saskatoon’s afforestation areas. The afforestation area namesakes; Richard St. Barbe Baker, George Genereux, Bruce Gordon, and Benjamin Thomas (B.T.) Chappell were all local heroes. email friendsafforestation@gmail.com for more biographical information.

Activity: Organize a “Hero’s Trail” project in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area or George Genereux Urban Regional Park. Students will create illustrated maps of the trail, incorporating both information about Terry Fox and the natural features of the park. Students could hang poems and pictures on biodegradable paper for inspiration. They can write about how Terry Fox’s perseverance mirrors the importance of preserving and protecting natural spaces. This project will help them understand heroism in both historical and environmental contexts.

Grades 6-8: Reflecting on Heroism and Environmental Stewardship Students in Grades 6-8 can engage in more complex reflections on what constitutes true heroism and its connections to environmental stewardship.

Activity: Conduct a research and creative writing project titled “Heroes and Nature.” Students will research how Terry Fox and local figures like Bruce Gordon have contributed to society and then create a multi-media presentation that connects these contributions to the importance of environmental conservation. They will explore how preserving spaces like the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and George Genereux Urban Regional Park contributes to the community’s well-being, much like how cancer research contributes to fighting disease.

Additionally, students will reflect on George Genereux’s athletic prowess. Although he was a gold medal Olympic athlete and had the opportunity to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Genereux chose to follow a career in helping others. He became a professor of radiology and contributed significantly to the medical field contributing to the fight on the crippling disease of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Students will explore how Genereux’s achievements and his decision to focus on a career that benefited others demonstrate heroism in different forms.

Additional Activity: Have students write a short story or poem about a hero who works to protect both people and the environment. They should incorporate elements from their research about Terry Fox, Bruce Gordon, George Genereux and the importance of local natural spaces.

School-Wide Activities: Encourage the entire school to participate in Terry Fox Day by organizing a range of activities:

School Run: Host a school-wide Terry Fox Run or Walk around the school grounds or in local parks. Set goals for distances and encourage students to gather pledges for cancer research. Make it a fun event with music and refreshments, ensuring all health and safety protocols are followed.

Community Involvement: Engage with local organizations and invite guest speakers, such as representatives from the Terry Fox Foundation or local environmental groups, to talk about the impact of Terry Fox’s legacy and the importance of environmental stewardship.

Celebrating Local Heroes: As we commemorate Terry Fox Day, let us also honor the contributions of local heroes like Bruce Gordon and recognize the importance of our natural spaces in Saskatoon. By integrating these themes into our curriculum and activities, we not only celebrate the legacy of Terry Fox but also inspire our students to be heroes in their own right—both through community service and environmental stewardship.For more information about participating in the Terry Fox Run or planning classroom activities, visit the Terry Fox Foundation’s website and explore the resources available. Let’s make this September 18th a day of reflection, celebration, and inspiration for all.