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Yours truly![/caption]
Ecology Ottawa and Tree Ottawa each had a table with information and able volunteers. We signed up a few people on the renewable city petition with the help of Judy, Alok and Eva. Tree Ottawa also had great conversations with the public thanks to Lauren and Fan.
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Pipelines and ladders![/caption]
Formal speeches were made by some important people – Catherine McKenna Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, Deputy Mayor Mark Taylor, Councillor David Chernushenko. MPP John Fraser and Councillor Riley Brockington for River Ward where this event was held were also in attendance.
What stood out for me was playing the Pipelines and Renewable Energy game with the kids. We got to talk about geothermal and solar energy. Some surely talked about it with their parents too. How often can you talk about pipelines and laugh?!
To round out the event, tree specialist Owen Clarkin lead a wonderful tour of McCarthy Woods. I love these woods now even more when this champion of Tree Ottawa shares his enthusiasm and expert knowledge of this magical place.
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Owen Clarkin leading a tour of McCarthy Woods.[/caption]
On a personal note, I got to talk to two politicians. I had been having trouble reaching John Fraser about the Climate Change Town Hall we want to hold with him and MP David McGuinty. Now I have a verbal promise from Mr. Fraser that a date will be found. Minister McKenna was part of that conversation too. In fact,she invited all those present to come to the Town Hall she is hosting on April 28 in the Glebe.
Every day is Earth Day. Let's keep talking to people. It's our best chance for positive change.