Written by Lisa Browning
In March of this year, One Thousand Trees began hosting a series of events under the title “All Creatures Great and Small.” It’s hard to believe that, in less than six weeks, we’ll be hosting the final event in the series … a World Animal Day market on Saturday, October 4.
We have hosted some incredible events so far:
Craft and Storytime at the Children’s Reading Room: We hosted five guest authors, who read their stories about animals (all published by Saplings, the children’s publishing branch of One Thousand Trees), and also provided supplies for a craft related to the theme of the book each month. Thanks to the Children’s Reading Room for the opportunity, and thanks to the following authors:
- Arlene Davies-Fuhr, author of Zola: The Zany, Zippy, Zealous Pig
- Donna Kaye, co-author of Move Along Huxley and Roscoe!
- Jeanette Clarke, author of The Girl Who Talked the Hind Legs Off a Donkey
- Noah Nogueira, co-author of Angel Has Her Wings
- Malcolm Bernstein, author of Benjamin: a loving story about a dog and his lasting impact on the animal kingdom
The Monarch Ultra Documentary Screening at The Bookshelf: Deeply concerned about the steep decline of insect pollinators due to devastating environmental impacts, a group of runners trace the migration path of the monarch butterflies across three countries as they organized a 4,300 kilometre relay run, aiming to raise awareness for pollinator conservation. Rodney Fuentes helped organized The Monarch Ultra event in 2019 and became a co-founder along with Carlotta James and Clay Williams. Run Director Clay Williams introduced the film, and facilitated a Q&A session after the screening. Thanks to the Bookshelf for their assistance.
Open House at Sierra Acres: Sierra Acres is an equine-assisted learning facility located in Rockwood. The Open House consisted of supervised visits with horses and goats, and walks to the naturally rolling forest area. Participants were able to make wooden bird houses, and Saplings provided supplies for children’s crafts.
Thanks to Anne Porteous for her hospitality, and to her husband Stu for his birdhouse-making skills!
The Two Bays Pack: The Coyotes of Inverhuron, a presentation by David Rankine: Over a period of 4 years, David has walked thousands of kilometres on coyote trails learning first hand about the behaviour and ways of this coyote pack. Exciting face to face encounters, howls and many trail camera photos have led David to a greater understanding of himself as a human being and a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures. David mixed amusing anecdotes and cutting-edge research in this introduction to the personalities and ways of the Two Bays Coyote Pack.
Horses: the Natural Truth Detector, a presentation by Anne Porteous: Horses have the unique ability to relate to humans when words fail, which fosters open and honest dialogue, and facilitates the emergence of insights for both the service provider and the client. Patience, respect, teamwork, understanding, and collaboration are required when working with these magnificent animals. In this presentation, Anne discussed how horses serve as authentic mirrors that are difficult to deceive, with their heightened sensitivity and responsiveness to human emotions.
Special thanks to GuelphToday, our media sponsor for this series of events.
Looking ahead to October …
World Animal Day is an international day of action for animal rights and welfare celebrated annually on October 4, the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. It started in 1925, and since then has seen a growing international community striving to end the needless suffering of all animals.
The market will consist of vendors selling animal-related products and services, as well as animal advocacy organizations with information to share. And, rumour has it, there just might be a furry, four-legged special guest on site!
Mark your calendars, and tell all your animal-loving friends about this event. And, if you have an animal-related product or service, there are still vendors tables available. Email [email protected] for more information.
