May 20, 2008 - News

Engaging youth to buy, eat locally
A forum aimed at engaging youth in developing sustainable food projects will take place on May 21 at the downtown Market Square. From 4 to 6 p.m., Foodshed Project will host the Youth Forum on Sustainability and is encouraging people to attend to voice their ideas and solutions on food system issues and how to get youth involved. The Foodshed Project is holding the forum to find out what projects would interest people between the ages of 15 and 30, and what would motivate them on this issue. On average, food travels about 3,000 kilometres before reaching a household, stated a news release. The current food system has a high carbon price tag that cannot be ignored with the rising price of gas. The youth forum will include presentations from local educator, artist and cultural consultant Will Morin, and chair of the Eat Local Sudbury board Allison Muckle. “Youth are the driving force for change,” said Meredith Tyhurst, youth engagement co-ordinator with the Foodshed Project. “There are so many possibilities for a more sustainable food system. We just need awareness and education on the issues and solutions.”

Métis Settlement of Peavine Receives Infrastructure Funding for Community Arena
The Métis Settlement of Peavine will be able to equip its local community arena, thanks to a joint federal and provincial investment, through the Canada-Alberta Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (CAMRIF). The facility will offer increased recreational opportunities and improved access to programs that promote the athletic development for residents. The community's population, in which 44 per cent residents are under the age of 19, will also benefit from the expanded availability of the arena to a greater number of residents. A minimum of 55 per cent of funding under CAMRIF targets green infrastructure projects that contribute to community economic development and environmental quality of life. These include water, wastewater, solid waste, environmental energy improvements and public transit. The fund also invests in recreational infrastructure, tourism, cultural projects, local roads and broadband connectivity. Projects are selected on a competitive basis from applications received from Alberta communities.