Zed News YYC Podcasts

Movies We're Hyped About

3/31/2023

There are some amazing new movies coming out in April and May 2023. We're going to tell you about the four that have us ready to hit the cinema - Super Mario Bros, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Fast X, and Are You There God? It's Me, Margret. Let us know what you want to go see in the comments below!

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A Robot Wrote This - A Podcast about Chat GPT and AI's impact on our lives

2/22/2023

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By Fadi Haider, Jackie Karmali, and Ivy Dane

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Youth Life Online

1/31/2023

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by Jenna Karmali and Fadi Haider

Jenna and Fadi discuss a 2021 survey about the digital lives of Canadians in grades four through twelve, while offering their own perspectives about how they use digital devices.

Transcript

Jenna
Hello and welcome to the Zed news YYC podcast where young journalists from the Alexandra Writers Centre, passionate about creating balanced and engaging news that is relevant to us. We aim to keep the public informed highlight solutions, keep the powerful and check give voice to those who don't always get heard. Here today are Fadi, and I'm Jenna. We're going to talk about a survey looking at the digital lives of Canadians in grades four through twelve.

Fadi
Today's conversation was inspired by the report by Media Smarts in September to December of 2021. 1058 Canadians responded to the survey and there are several things of note.

Jenna
For example, 97% of the youth surveyed use the internet to communicate with friends and family. 70% use it to make plans to meet with someone offline. In what ways does screentime affects your friendships? Do you find that the Internet helps you build quality or quantity of friendships?

Fadi
It depends on how a person's use it as far as quality or quantity goes. I know for me, when I first started using social media to communicate with friends, I wanted to focus a lot more on the quantity of friendships. But as I matured a bit more, I realized that having good quality friendships with people that are close to you, to me — I find a lot more value in that, than I would find in a high quantity of friendships.

Jenna
Yeah, I mean, I don't really talk to most people in general, but I don't especially online. But I feel like it's extra important in order to like have a quality friendship or quantity of friendships, to have that in-person connection. Otherwise, there’s just this big disconnect, in my opinion.

Fadi
Outside of schoolwork, most respondents spend three plus hours per day on digital devices on the weekend. during weekdays, it's one to less than two hours. How much time do you spend online?

Jenna
I think I spent a lot of time online, not just with like schoolwork, but I also spend a lot of my extracurricular time online. Like, I enjoy just writing stories or journalism, like how I'm doing now. And I like just binging Netflix or reading online. So, I think that I’m definitely past that three hour on a weekend limit. How about you?

Fadi
Yeah, for me, that's totally fair. I think that I would spend less time on the weekdays as I'm a high school student, and my grades are a lot more important to me, especially on the weekdays. But on the weekends, especially if I've done my work, I can comfortably exceed six hours a day on digital devices, just relaxing, watching videos hanging out with friends and playing games.

Jenna
Did you know that 25% of youth have set aside full days or longer when the use of devices is prohibited? Do you designate days off of screens?

Fadi
I do not designate days off of screens. Personally, I think that finding balance between using your screen all day and having days off, I find that's a bit extreme. What I would rather do is just set certain hours of the day where you shouldn't be using your screen. For me those hours probably should be the first hour of the day and the last hour of the day. At the very least. This way you can find balance between every day and you're not jumping between having your screen on all the time and having it completely off. What about you?

Jenna
I agree to an extent, but I prefer just like using it out of necessity. Like, I find working on screens, if it's not for schoolwork, it's more of like a leisure activity. So, when I'm not like doing my homework or I'm not like in class or something, then I'll definitely just be using that as like a treat or for free time.

Fadi
That's definitely fair. I think using screen time as a treat is a valid way for you to balance how much work you put in versus how much relaxing you're doing. Here's some more facts of what youth are doing online. The most popular social media sites according to a survey, in order, is YouTube with 50% of youths using it. Tik Tok with 42. Instagram with 38. Facebook 37. Snapchat 20. Twitter 15 and Netflix is only 9%. Discord is 7% and Disney is 3%. What platforms do you use most often? Which ones are your favourite?

Jenna
I'd say that I definitely agree with YouTube and Tiktok being towards the top. However, I'm like really shocked that Facebook is above Snapchat and Twitter and Netflix and Discord. That seems a bit ridiculous in my opinion. If I was bringing them on mine then Netflix would be a lot higher and Disney too. That's the biggest differences for me. What about you?

Fadi
For me? You have to also take into account that this also includes a younger audience. So, for example, the use of YouTube and Tik Tok is probably much higher in that younger audience from grade four to I'd say about grade eight than it would be in high schoolers, which I believe more than 28% of high schoolers would be using Snapchat and Instagram. For me, the platforms I use most often are most likely YouTube I love watching YouTube videos to learn information about things that I want to know about because that's what I find the best way to learn. And another platform I use a lot is Discord because it allows me to communicate with my friends without being one on one and I can hang out and call with a bunch of friends at the same time and do things together.

Jenna
That's very interesting. Did you know that 40% of youth organized activities that don't use screens? What else did we learn about how people our age are using the internet in the survey?

Fadi
Organizing activities that don't require screens is important for helping us understand that the internet isn't everything about life and that at one point, people did enjoy their time without using the Internet all the time. For example, sports activities are a great way to do this. Spending time in nature and with friends are great ways to have quality time without using screens.

Jenna
Personally, I couldn't fathom spending time like away from it that much. Like before, in the before times when people had liked phones that look like hair dryers and stuff I wouldn't be able to manage. I would suffer immediately if I was Marty McFly.

Fadi
That's fair. I feel like, especially in this age, the whole world revolves around the internet and staying away from it for an extended period of time definitely does have an impact on a person. Another fact is that among users with smartphones. 17% said that they've pranked or trolled someone while 10% said they cheated on the test at school. What do we think about this?

Jenna
I think that 10% is a bit of a ridiculous statistic. I don't feel like that many people, at least in my school environment would cheat on a test.

Fadi
I definitely go to a different school environment than what you have. And I totally agree with that. 10% seems rather high for cheating on a test at school especially.

Jenna
Nine out of ten youth have household rules such as treating people with respect, telling the parent or guardian about uncomfortable online situations, prohibiting certain websites, and not posting contact info to strangers. What are your opinions of this?

Fadi
This is totally fair. I believe that especially when you're first getting introduced to having your own smartphone or using the web by yourself, there definitely should be outlines that help someone become more accustomed to using the internet. Not to mention this also helps build good habits for later on down the line when most youth experience more independence and using the internet. Another fact that I found really interesting was that racialized versus Caucasian youth have different limits regarding screen time — racialized youth 36% versus Caucasian youth 30% are more likely to experience screen time limits. How do you think this affects their mental state?

Jenna
I think that on one hand, it seems entirely fair that some people get screentime limits. And I don't think that it might always have something to do with race. But on the other hand, I feel like it's perfectly playing into some of the stereotypes you see on TV with like strict parents from other countries and then the chill white parents. So, I feel like it's somewhat believable. But considering it's only a 6% difference, I don't think it's that big.

Fadi
I feel like the more and more we progress towards a more internet-centric world, the more this gap is going to start to close.

Jenna
Finally, 14% of youth said that they would be relieved or happy if they were unable to go online, other than for schoolwork for a week. According to Media Smarts, 44% of youth worried they spend too much time online. Over 59% would be unhappy if they had to go offline for a week. Do you think you'd be able to survive a week offline?

Fadi
I think I would personally be able to survive a week offline pretty well. Outside of schoolwork, I don't spend too much time doing other things on my devices outside of weekends, because weekends are my time off and that's where I spend time entertaining myself. So, for me, that would essentially just be a weekend where I couldn't go online. So that would make it a lot more bearable for me. What about you?

Jenna
I wouldn't be able to tolerate it. Like I'd survive physically, but not emotionally in the slightest. I wouldn't be able to tolerate a single week without my screens. You've been listening to the Zed news YYC podcast. This episode is produced by Fadi and I, at the Alexandria Writers Centre community in Calgary. For more news journalism, visit our website at www.zednewsyyc.weebly.com. Thank you.

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Alberta youth: part time work, partial pay

6/6/2022

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Heather: Hello and welcome to the Zed News YYC podcast. We are young journalists from the Alexandra Writers Centre passionate about creating balanced and engaging news that is relevant to us. We aim to keep the public informed, highlight solutions, keep the powerful in check, and give voice to those who don’t always get heard. Our reporters here today are Kate, Silvana, Kristina, Lucas, and I’m your host, Heather. Today’s issue is about wage gaps for teens. Kate is here to explain when teens started to get paid less minimum wage. Kate, could you please tell us the answer?

Kate: So it all started in 2019, and under these new rules, the teens minimum wage would lower to 13$ per hour, 2$ less than their adult co-workers. This new rule would apply to people between the ages of 13-17. The UCP said that they did this to spur more hiring in that age group. Premier Jason Kenney also said that increasing the minimum wage in the middle of an economic downturn would only hurt small businesses and make finding work for youth more difficult. “This is still a very generous wage - $13 an hour is a lot more than $0” said Kenney in an interview. This is still in place and teens sare still getting paid 13$, $2 less than their adult co-workers.

Thanks, Kate, for the information. Now Silvana will tell us if Alberta's the only place that does this?

Actually, no. Out of all 13 provinces and territories I researched, there is only one other province that does this. Ontario. Ontario and Alberta both have a minimum wage of 15$. However, unlike Alberta, with its 2$ teen wage gap difference, Ontario has a 90 cent teen wage gap difference. However, 14.10$ an hour technically is a large difference from 13$ an hour. Out of all the Provinces and territories in Canada, Alberta has the largest difference for teen wage gap.

So much do teens get paid in the other provinces where they get paid the same as adults? The lowest minimum wage is in New Brunswick at 11.75$ while Nunavut is at 16$ an hour. All the other provinces and territories range in between those 2 numbers.

Kristina, can you tell us why Alberta put in place the teen minimum wage and did it create more jobs?

Kristina: Well, when the new minimum wage for teens was first introduced in June of 2019, the UCP government introduced it as a means of creating jobs for the province’s young workers while also easing the pressure on struggling businesses. Despite the government’s claims that it will help promote jobs within the youth’s ranks, there were still various business owners and employers that questioned the new wage on grounds of fairness, not seeing how the lower minimum wage could help businesses. This opposition can actually be observed in Alberta15, an online pledge for businesses that want to continue on paying a living wage of $15.

Now, the question of if the teen minimum wage actually succeeded in creating more jobs is a different matter. Looking at statistics from before the minimum wage was first implemented to the end of 2020, we can observe a decrease from a 35-40% teen employment rate from 2018-2019 to a 19-37% employment rate from 2020-2021, according to Statistics Canada. While other factors like the effects of the pandemic in mid-2020 could have contributed to the fluctuation of the rate in that specific year, comparing the highest rates of both years still signifies a drop from a 40% teen employment rate to 37%.

Thanks for the helpful statistics, Kristina. Finally, Lucas, If teens can’t make more money, what else can they look for in a job?

Lucas: Well, when it comes to finding jobs, most youth will base their decisions on how much money they will make, but there are other aspects to look for when considering a job. One important thing that one could look for would be a job with a union. Unions help employees build better work environments, get better wages, and get representation if or when something goes wrong. Another thing to look for is the experience one could gain from a job. Even if you aren’t making a lot of money, the experience a job can give you may be extremely important in the future of your career. If the position you want is in an industry you hope to one day have a full-time part in, it can be very beneficial to form connections with others in that industry and get your foot in the door sooner rather than later. Even if a larger paycheck ends up a casualty with your taking of this job, the future prospects it may provide must not be overlooked. And finally, if more
money isn’t as much a concern, then try to just find a job you like. Find an environment where you can have fun or do what you like to do, as that can contribute to a healthier and more pleasant work environment.

Heather: Thank you for the wonderful tips. So if any teens are listening to this podcast, I hope you keep this information in mind as you search for a job. I hope all of our listeners learned something too about the teen wage gap.

You have been listening to the Zed News YYC podcast. This episode is produced by Kate, Silvana, Kristina, and Lucas. I’m your host Heather at the Alexandra Writers Centre in Calgary. For more Zed News Journalism, visit our website www.zednewsyyc.weebly.com.

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Teen Mental Health

12/17/2021

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Zed News YYC discusses the state of teen mental health in the time of COVID-19, and what resources and techniques can help improve their situation.

Lucas: Today’s podcast is about teens’ mental health in Calgary. Calgary’s youth have been suffering from poor mental health as of late, especially during the still-ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about this important subject, I am joined by young journalists Silvana, Kate, Heather, Kristina, and Priya to explain what specifically has been affecting Calgary teens’ mental health, and what can be done to combat it.

Lucas: Silvana, what's the difference between mental illness and mental health?

Silvana: Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking &/or behavior. There are many different mental illnesses, and they have different symptoms that impact peoples’ lives in different ways. Mental illnesses are associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.

Now let’s look at mental health. Teenagers are under a lot of stress to be liked, do well in school, get along with family, etc. They can't avoid these pressures and acting like they’re irrelevant isn’t okay. A lot of teens feel sad, hopeless or worthless due to how low their mental health is.

Everyone has mental health. In the course of a lifetime, not all people will experience a mental illness, but we will all struggle or have a challenge with our mental well-being just like we all have challenges with our physical well-being once in a while. When we talk about mental health, we’re talking about our mental well-being: our emotions, our thoughts, feelings and our understanding of the world around us.

Health isn’t like an on off switch. There are different levels of mental health. Some people don’t have that many issues and some people have huge weights on their shoulders. So it’s really important to try and learn everything we can about mental health and not compare it to mental illnesses.

Lucas: Thanks Silvana. Kate, how common are mental health problems among Canadian teenagers and what causes mental illness in teenagers?

Kate: Some of the most common mental health issues amongst adolescents consist of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and E.D’s (eating disorders). Some common behaviors that might be portrayed by struggling teens are drink or do drugs, constant worry about everything, or obsession with weight. There are a multitude of things that could cause these mental health issues in teens, but some of the main things are depressed or anxious parents, poor homelife, bullying, and for certain people it could be as small as a mess up in routine. Mental health is not a myth, it is real and just as important as physical health, there are 1.2 million teens in Canada alone who struggle with their mental health. That is 25% out of all teens in Canada. If you need help, you deserve it, and should not be denied it by anyone.

Lucas: Heather, how did the pandemic influence the already existing mental health problem?

Heather: Before the pandemic had even begun the problem of mental health had been a pressuring force in our world. For adolescents and teens who often rely heavily on social interactions had been difficult for people when the pandemic had forced many adolescents and teens to be suppressed of social interactions. When these individuals were forced to be isolated from friends on which many teens and adolescents rely on through the duration of their lives they had found it extremely difficult to adapt to their new situation.

The result that had come out of the lockdown because of the pandemic had resulted in the increase of stress, worry about their own health and family health, the development growth had that had been disrupted, school norm as well as the sudden separation from friends had been a common effect from the pandemic disrupting the usual lives many adolescents and teens had been doing for throughout their lives.

When schools had gone into lockdown, the increase of social media and the internet had been another factor that increased the risk of the mental health that had been pressuring both teens and adolescents. Adding to the worries they had to endure, adolescents and teens were often worried about the economic problems that were slowly emerging because of the pandemic. The irregular sleep patterns did nothing to help with the rise in the mental health of adolescents and teens. We can now clearly say that the pandemic had greatly increased the mental health of the adolescents and teens throughout the pandemic.

Lucas: Thanks Heather, Kristina why is discussion surrounding mental health important? And what should I do if a friend wants to talk to me about their mental health?

Kristina: Well, to talk about mental health is really important in spreading awareness about it. Even now, there still exists a stigma surrounding mental health that makes it harder for youth to speak up and discuss their mental wellbeing -- this stigma was built up from years of not talking about it and even discouraging it through toxic means. By encouraging discussion around mental health and mental illnesses, we are building a safe place for people to be comfortable with themselves and for people to learn more about themselves without stigma and stereotypes. It gives teens a web of connections that they can count on when they feel that they need it.

If a friend wants to talk about their mental health, then the first thing that you should do is be open to listening. Be welcome to discussion without judgment -- sometimes, all a person wants is for someone to listen to them and to have that comfort of knowing someone cares enough to listen. Know that you don’t have to reach all of the answers at once -- it’s 100% a learning process, and learning takes time. If they’re comfortable enough, talk about alternatives for mental health support like a youth organization, school counselor, or someone else that they trust. If they need, and with their consent, seek outside help. Overall, it’s about providing a safe place for them to feel cared about and supported, and to provide them with support when they need it.

Lucas, Thanks Kristina. Priya, what support exists for teens who are struggling with mental health?

Priya: There are numerous mental health resources teens throughout Calgary can use. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental illness and needs immediate attention you should call 911 or go to a medical center as soon as possible. However, if you need someone to talk with about what you are going through there are a variety of numbers you can call.

There are two 24-hour distress centers available for phone calls everyday of the week. Their numbers are (403) 266-4357 and 1-800-SUICIDE, which is toll free.

Teens can also connect with others who are their age, through Connect Teen by calling 403-264-TEEN (8336) between 5 to 10pm or texting 587-333-2724. There is a Kids Help Phone available, as well, which is open 24/7 nationwide. Their number is 1-800-668-6868.

Another number available is Access Mental Health, which is 403-943-1500. The Police Non-Emergency line is also an option, which can be reached at 403-266-1234. Or Community and Social Services, which is 211.

Again if you are experiencing mental health symptoms that require immediate attention please go to the nearest hospital or call 911.

Lucas: Thank you to all my co-hosts who helped to develop and produce this podcast. We hope that this podcast helped to educate you more on what is happening with mental health among Alberta’s teenage population and how caring individuals can help to support these struggling youth and create invaluable change within our communities.

This podcast was produced by Kate, Kristina, Heather, Silvana, Priya, and me, Lucas.

Helpful websites:
https://teentalk.ca/learn-about/mental-health-2/
https://cmha.ca/brochure/talking-to-teens-about-mental-health/
https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2021/teen-mental-health-during-covid-19
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-covid-19-affecting-your-teens-mental-health
https://cmha.ca/brochure/fast-facts-about-mental-illness/

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The 2021 Calgary Mayoral Candidates

10/6/2021

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Zed News YYC examines the Calgary mayoral candidates' views and priorities when it comes to the environment and climate change, transit, the economy, policing, and provincial relations to help you make an informed choice.

Silvana
Hello, and welcome to Zed News YYC’ s podcast.

We are members of the Alexandra Writers Centre Young Journalists program.

As young journalists, we are passionate about creating balanced and engaging news that is relevant to us. We aim to keep the public informed, highlight solutions, keep the powerful in check, and give a voice to people who don't always get heard.

Today’s podcast is about the municipal election in Calgary. Voters go to the polls on Oct. 18 to pick a new mayor and 14 city councillors. We’ve looked at the platforms of the candidates running for mayor to help you better understand your choices.

Silvana
So, Priya, what are the top candidates' views and priorities when it comes to the environment and climate change?

Priya
That’s a great question Silvana! Let’s start with Jeromy Farkas, who is Calgary councillor for Ward 11. One of Farkas’s main priorities is lower city transit fees and making the LRT more affordable for all Calgarians. He also wants to expand our C-train lines. However, he does not mention anything about climate change or environmental protection on his campaign page.

As for our next candidate Jyoti Gondek, who is the councillor for Ward 3. A priority of her’s is expanding and strengthening our transit system. Another one of the top priorities she has on her website is ‘Climate and Environmental Resilience’, which states that Gondek intends to retrofit buildings and transit lines to be more resilient to climate change, she wants Calgary to transition to low-carbon electricity, and build up our city’s flood protection. Part of her plans for revitalizing our economy include expand Calgary’s green energy sector as well.

The last candidate I am going to focus on is Jeff Davison, who is the councillor Ward 6. Davison has a section on his website titled ‘Protect our Environment’ that states he wishes to make our city greener. However, there is no other information about how he plans to do that on his website.

Silvana:
Thanks Priya, but I have a question for Heather. Who would I vote for if I want a more accessible public transit service?

Heather
To answer your question Silvana how about we start by looking at which candidates are interested in the city’s transit system.

Jyoti Gondek is one of the candidates whose main priority is to help Calgary with it’s transit system. How Gondek is going to improve our transit system is to expand and help strengthen the green line, which is a new 5.5 billion dollar C-Train line from north to south Calgary.

The next candidate who supports transit is Jeff Davison. Davison prioritizes developing the Green Line, as well as developing a railway between Banff, Calgary, and the airport. Davison had said, “Calgary has always been a place of opportunity and open doors. I’m running for mayor to keep it that way.”

Another mayoral candidate, Brad Field, also advocated strongly for the train leading from the Calgary airport to downtown and Banff.

Let’s dive deeper into what Jeromy Farkas is willing to achieve. Actually Jeromy Farkas doesn’t have a lot to say about transit. However, he says he’s the only candidate Calgarians can trust to keep the Green Line project team “accountable.”

Silvana:
That sounds so interesting, but Lucas, how will the Calgary economy strive this term. Who’s going to help restore jobs due to the huge unemployment rates the pandemic has left us with.

Lucas:
Well Silvana, let’s see which of the candidates have the most in-depth economical plans. Candidate Jan Damery has an economic recovery plan, which is hoping to help generate 80,000 new jobs by 2030, which includes creating 4,000 jobs by the end of this decade.

Then, there’s Jyoti Gondek. She is pushing for refocusing our economic development agenda to aid in regional partnership and help build a strong industrial and commercial tax base. She is also prioritizing getting a portion of the 40 per cent property taxes dedicated to helping offset the gap in operating revenues during this time of decreasing market values.

Jeromy Farkas is wanting to control city taxes and spending by introducing a four-year tax freeze, which will also help to prevent overtaxing for Calgarians and local business owners.

However, Jeff Davidson by far has the most in-depth and extensive plan. During his candidacy, Davidson has been pushing hard for an economic development plan in order to help diversify and stabilize Calgary’s economy, and has seemingly found one in the form of The Calgary 2030 Plan.

Very basically, the plan focuses on four main points; Authentic Collaboration, Continuous Learning, Stable Economy, and Talent Magnet, represented with the colours red, yellow, blue, and green respectfully, hence why those four colours are prominently featured in his campaign logo.

The plan pushes for the prioritization of visits with investors in North America and innovation goals to help with business, supporting energy companies developing smart energy, providing incentives for campuses to help with the organization of educational and training institutions, incentivise innovation to generate jobs, fast-tracking permitting, which will help businesses like restaurants stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic, and form stronger partnerships at all levels of government.

Silvana
Thank you for explaining. As we know Calgary is one of the safest cities in Canada. But it doesn’t mean we’re out of the woods yet. Kate, would you please explain to us about how each of our candidates plans are to lessen Calgary’s crime rate & try to solve problems within the police force.

Kate
Yes, of course. Why don’t we start off with Jeromy Farkas
Jeromy thinks that we should reject defunding the police. In fact he wants to reopen downtown stations & adequately fund alternative response models, mental health & addiction supports, and accountability measures such as body cams. Jeff said nothing about tackaling racial profiling, systemic racism or opresstion againest minorities.

Now, Jyoti Gondek
She recognized that crimes against minorities have increased across the country & has caused unsafety in these groups. She talked a lot about systemic racism saying “in parallel, we are witnessing the beginnings of new reckoning with a particular focus on systemic racism, islamophobia, anti-indigenous and anti black racism.”
She strongly believes we should commit to a more progressive police force & wants the city to enforce police partnering with people best fit to address complex social issues through both preventative and crisis-oriented supports.

And last on my list we have Jeff Davison
Jeff said very little about policing, but here are some of the things that he did say.
He wants to increase police resources and personnel for safety downtown, but he made it clear that by saying additional people he does not mean more buildings. Sadly that was all of the information I could collect on him as the vast majority of his platform is aimed toward the economy.

So, over all from the research I collected Jyoti spoke the most on tackling system racism, Jeff spoke the most on adding additional police personnel, and Jeromy spoke the most on NOT defunding the police and giving more funding to them.

Silvana
Well I for one am looking forward to having a safer community. Last but not least, Kristina is going to explain the plans for provincial relationships.

Kristina
Thank you Silvana! Looking at the main mayoral candidates, the ones that openly mention communication with the provincial government in their platforms are Jyoti Gondek, and Jeff Davison.

Let's first look at Jyoti Gondek and her platform. Gondek aims to open up communications with the provincial government in terms of Calgary’s property taxes. Through discussion of a "Fair Deal for Calgary" with the provincial government, as she mentions in her platform, she will "eliminate the bureaucratic waste of sending money to the province only to later ask for it back through grants" -- and she hopes to stabilize the local economy.

Next, let's look at Jeff Davison's platform and his beliefs. He believes that cooperation between all levels of governments will promote the city and foster positive relationships, and aims to work with the provincial (and on top of that, federal governments) to ensure good housing is available to all Calgarians. Similar to Gondek, he wants to negotiate with the provincial government in regards to economy and property tax.

Silvana:
Well that is our podcast. Who are you going to vote for? If you are undecided I hope this podcast helps.

Thank you to all my co-hosts who helped develop and voice this podcast. This podcast was produced by Kristina, Heather, Lucas, Kate, and Priya, and me Silvana. For more news and podcasts from Zed News YYC please visit our website zednewsyyc.weebly.com

Have a great day and see you at the polls.

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YOUTH RISING YYC

6/10/2021

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In a city shaped by fossil fuels, a generation confronts their future. How does the climate crisis fuel Calgary's youngest citizens? Does it impact what they learn, how they live, and who they want to be? This three-part podcast, hosted by teen journalists, explores Calgary's climate future.

Transcripts

EPISODE 1: What do Calgary teens learn about climate change?

Welcome to Youth Rising YYC, where Calgary teen hosts from Zed News YYC explore how Calgary’s fossil fuel industry impacts their generation’s views and aspirations during the climate crisis. What are youth learning about climate change? How are they responding to global warming? What do they envision for the future of their hometown?

A recent poll by Leger Marketing found 69 per cent of Alberta students were worried about their future in relation to the economy and the environment, yet one in five thought the topic was too controversial for the classroom. This podcast brings in the voice of experts and activists, with most of those voices being that of teenagers.

I’m Silvana. In today's episode, your host Heather Park welcomes Calgary teacher, Adam Rob, to discuss what students are talking about in the classroom when it comes to climate change.

Heather: Welcome, Adam. So tell me about the optional high school course you're teaching.

Adam: I teach an environmental studies course, for high school kids across the city, anyone whose of high school age can come and specialize in our program to do a hands-on course in environmental studies. And so we mix students all together from grades 12, to grade 10, and we cover everything to do with environmental studies, from looking at wildlife issues, to climate change, to urban sprawl, and everything in between. Once the students get a background in some of these topics, then they get to choose their own direction and create their own project based on their own interest. And then my job is to just help them along to complete that project. And the parameter of the project is -- it has to make the world a better place in some way. So it's a pretty loose parameter.

Heather: Who created this course? And why?

Adam: Yeah, luckily, I got to help create most of the course. But originally, my friend Catherine was in on the ground floor when the Calgary Board of Education decided that they wanted to have a department focusing on the study of natural resources. And there was actually some sponsorship from oil and gas companies to start a program to help create students that were more literate in environmental issues.

Heather: What environmental topics do students express the most interest in?

Adam: It's a good question. It really is as diverse as the students are that come to see me. So I would say climate change, obviously, now is sort of the center point around which a lot of our projects are centered. So I would say in the last two to three years, the interest in climate change has completely shifted amongst youth, from something that was just for the most absolute tree hugger student in the school to be interested in, it's now become an interest of students in all career pathways. And it's been really exciting in my job, because I was teaching something that was kind of on the fringes of mainstream ideas for youth, and now it's right at the center. And we've seen a huge demand in students wanting to know more about the climate and more about conservation issues and national parks. I would say, yeah, wildlife issues is probably right up there as well. Green technologies, including green architecture, seems to be- once that door is open to students, they find that really fascinating as well. So I think elementary schools do a really good job introducing all of those environmental topics and attachments to nature. But typically, that study sort of dies out, they become too mature to put their hands in the dirt. But if they do get that opportunity, which is what we try and provide them, they seem really, really engaged in all sorts of environmental issues, from food security, to water quality, to fast fashion. I could go on and on.

Heather: How do you think the Alberta curriculum addresses climate change?

Adam: Directly? It's not a lot. I know that in grade 10 science, there's the final unit is supposed to be centered around that. But what most students tell me is that the teachers kind of teach that unit all in one day at the very end of the semester. And it's not essential learning, so to speak, so it is part in that form. So at the high school level, unless your school has a program that focuses on anything from agriculture to wildlife issues, then there's probably no availability for you to learn about climate change as part of your high school credits, they might do it in an eco club or something like that more commonly, but my experience is that most students, and I would say 90% of students graduate with very little understanding of climate change.

Heather: So how do you handle the controversy around climate change in your classroom?

Adam: I don't mind a little controversy. So I'm quite comfortable in that role. But what's interesting is that I bring in people, experts, because I'm, I'm not an expert, I bring in experts from all different fields in relation to climate change. And we hear it directly from the scientists, we hear directly from the people working in the energy industry to try and combat climate change themselves. We just, we go to the source. And that's where we start. So our class doesn't start from a question of does climate change exist? It starts from the point of climate change exists and humans are causing it, so how are we going to fix it? How are we going to adapt to it? And that's where students get to choose their project direction. So we go through the basic science, and we talk to experts, and I've never had any blowback with that formula before. But I have heard of other teachers getting blowback from parents about teaching climate change.

Heather: What would you change, if you could change one thing in the curriculum?

Adam: Just one thing? Okay, I would make- is this one thing? I would make it essential for every high school student to spend at least one week outdoors learning about nature, with no cell phones, out somewhere far from home. And I think if every high school kid did that, then all of our standardized test marks, every single measurement of learning would go up, and mental health would be improved at the same time.

Heather: Is there anything you'd like to add? Or anything I didn't ask you?

Adam: I have a sort of optimistic look, our perspective on what's happening in terms of environmental education in our province. I've been doing this a long time, as you can tell, I'm really old. And so I've been in teaching environmental education for 15 years across the province. And like I said, it used to be, I used to be by myself on a little island, teaching these things at the high school level, and then I met someone else doing it. And then I met someone else starting to do it in all corners of the province. And with that small group of people sort of leading by example, and sort of showing that it can be done in a way that's not overly controversial, and really positive for student engagement, there are now many, many more programs offering environmental education across the province. And that's very exciting. So this past year, I've posted a number of webinars about how to teach the environment to teachers. And it was unbelievable how many teachers signed up for these workshops, from kindergarten to grade 12. And so it's not only students who are demanding more climate change education, we're finally at a point where teachers are demanding this as well, and they're, they're finding ways to implement that sort of education into their regular classroom routines. And so that makes me really, really hopeful and excited.

Heather: Thanks for joining us today. Adam.

Adam: My pleasure. You guys are doing some exciting stuff.

Episode 2: How do teens feel about the future of Calgary?

Welcome to Youth Rising YYC. We're Calgary teen hosts from Zed NewsYYC explore how Calgary's fossil fuel industry impacts their generations views and aspirations during the climate crisis? In today's episode, your host Priya Migneault and Kristina Lanuza. Welcome Ivana Mendez , Mendez Jimenez, Caleb Glass, and Miranda Bickert from Earth Guardians YYC to discuss how they feel about the future of our city.

Kristina: Today I'm here with Earth Guardians YYC. Can we go around and state your name, age, grade and reason why you care about the planet.

Miranda: My name is Miranda. I'm 17. I'm in grade 11. And I care about other living creatures on the planet that are suffering from human’s actions.

Ivana: Hi, I'm Ivana Mendez. germanus. I'm 18. I'm in grade 12. I really care about the diminishing bee population in particular.

Caleb: Hi, I am Caleb. I am 14. I’m in Grade 8. And I care about plastic pollution.

Kristina: Thank you. Miranda first, why did you choose to become an Earth Guardian?

Miranda: I chose to join after my class started talking about plastic pollution. And I was getting really concerned and stressed about it, and I really couldn't find out a way that I could help aside from not using plastic. Then I saw a flyer for joining Earth Guardians YYC.

Krsitina: Ivana, why did you choose to become an Earth Guardian?

Ivana: Kind of the same reason I was also getting pretty concerned. And I was really overwhelmed and I couldn’t, like, find little steps to be taking. So I met Priya at a climate rally. And then I joined the group, and it kind of helped, like sort everything out and start taking little steps.

Kristina: Caleb, why did you choose to become an Earth Guardian?

Caleb: My sibling mentioned it and then continued mentioning over time, until it got to a point where I was worried about it. And then I also met Priya at a climate strike. And I went to the first meeting.

Kristina: This is just a question in general for all three of you. What does the Earth Guardians do in schools?

Ivana: Well, currently,we're working on our Flower of Waste [sculpture], waste management presentation, from grades from kindergarten to grade six. And we're kind of just talking about, you know, air pollution, plastic pollution, ways to reduce plastic usage. So through recycling, reusing, upcycling, yeah, kind of just spreading the word around of how you can make a difference in your everyday life, basically.

Kristina: That's really nice. Miranda, why do you feel that this work is important?

Miranda: Well, everything that you do counts, even if it's a small thing, changing, like people's perspectives on it, even if it's one person at a time is just as important as changing your whole group. Because you can always work up to it. So everything counts in the end.

Kristina:That's great.

Ivana: I think especially with, like, younger kids, I think it's really important to get the message in while they're young, how important it is to care for our planet. And you know, what's happening to our planet right now during the climate crisis. So I think it's an important step to take in educating people on the issue.

Caleb: Spreading the awareness about this is important, like Ivana said, at young ages, just to start the thinking process going.

Kristina: Can you tell me how you wish to see our city develop in the future for things like job opportunities and climate mitigation?

Miranda: A pretty general hope for the future -- sort of a step away from non-renewable resources such as coal, natural gases, all that kind of stuff, move towards something more renewable. That might be a bit of a stretch for Alberta, but we can always hope for a nice future.

Kristina: We can always hope.

Ivana: Yeah, I think in our city in particular that we have so many highways and cars, I think that something really important is to really expand our transit, especially our train lines. I think that would A) create a lot of jobs and B) will create a way to reduce our Co2 emissions as a city.

Caleb: I hope our city will consider green job opportunities for the city, instead of very heavy on the oil and gas like Alberta is.

Kristina: What's one thing Calgary could do to be a greener city?

Miranda: A realistic option or a nice dream for Calgary?

Kristina: Good question. Priya. What do you think?

Priya: Let's say, a dream. Let's go big or go home.

Kristina: Go big or go home.

Miranda: I guess one thing I have noticed, or have been, I guess, especially sensitive these days is the number of ridiculously large vehicles that people have when they have absolutely no need for it. People, like, on my street alone, there's got to be at least 10 giant pickup trucks. And I know for a fact that they do not do a lot of deliveries of, like, wood or anything. So I think moving away from the idea of having a big car as being better than, and moving towards having, I guess, more efficient vehicles. I don't think that moving away from oil and gas is something that's going to happen anytime soon. But perhaps we could shrink the size of cars that people use.

Kristina: Ivana, what's one thing Calgary could do to be a greener city?

Ivana: I think that if we could grow more of our own food, I know it's a little difficult with our climate. But I think it would be really cool if we could, you know, grow some more of our own fruits and vegetables instead of having to import them. It would also be good for our own economy as well.

Caleb: I hope that Calgary can start to move away from oil and gas, and towards, like, cleaner opportunities, which is very far fetched for a Calgary. Like Miranda said that would be amazing.

Kristina: That's great. What are your worst fears around climate change for Calgary? What are your best hopes?

Miranda: So two opposite questions on the same spectrum? I guess one would be, like, for the fear for, I guess Calgary and the whole world in general, but people not doing enough, not enough action happening in climate change gets to the point where there is no going back. So you can only expect the inevitable. Hope, on the other hand, I guess would be to reverse or at least prevent climate change from getting any worse than it already is.

Ivana: I think my worst fear is that I see like all over the city and in the surrounding areas. There's a lot of, like, destruction of natural areas, like even a recent example is the Save Alberta Parks issue. I think that one of my worst fears is, even all over the world, that our natural areas are all going to be taken away and taken too far. And we just won't be able to get that back. And I think one of my hopes is also to be able to reverse a lot of the damage that we've done, especially in plastic pollution.

Kristina: Caleb, what are your worst fears around climate change for Calgary? And what are your best hopes?

Caleb: My worst fears for climate change in Calgary will probably be not putting enough awareness about it in Calgary. And then like Miranda said, my best hope is spreading enough awareness so that we don't go past that point … or hopefully we are able to stop, we are able to go back to something that's better and cleaner for the Earth.

Kristina: Miranda if you hadn't joined Earth Guardians, where do you think you'd be now?

Miranda: It's a good question. I don't actually know. I probably wouldn't have joined another group because I am, say, socially anxious. But actually, my mom forced me to join because like, I pointed it out to her and she was like, yeah, go join us. I was like ahhh, she was like, go, I was like, okay, it's a good decision … because the Guardians is really close to where I was, so if I didn't want to join, you know, no lost there, but a lot of the groups aren't particularly close to where I live. So it's a bit more of a problem to actually get there for meetings.

Kristina: Ivana, if you hadn't joined Earth Guardians, where do you think you'd be now?

Ivana: I honestly don't know. I'd probably still be in my thinking and overthinking and worrying and not doing anything phase. Even being with Earth Guardians has helped me like, choose what I want to study in university, and stuff like that. So I really couldn't tell you.

Kristina: Caleb, if you hadn't joined Earth Guardian, where do you think you'd be now?

Caleb: As I said before my sibling kind of showed me this. So I feel like if I hadn't joined Earth Guardians, I would probably be still trying to do something. What that something is, I have no clue.

Kristina: Is there any questions, comments or concerns that you'd like to add in at the end.

Ivana: I think that there's like a give and take with every source of energy, like you said, with solar panels, wind turbines, and all that they can be harmful to wildlife, and they are very expensive. And like with oil and gas, obviously, we've been on it for so long, it's the easy choice. And I guess it's relatively cheap. And like nuclear power, obviously, can be very dangerous if it gets out of hand. So I think it's more about, like, damage reduction, and seeing what's best for the environment in each case, like if there is enough funding.

Miranda: To add on to what Ivana said, everything has its downfalls. But if you put everything side by side, and you weigh the pros and cons, which one is the best for the environment? And you can also look at, which is the one that you can fix the problems that it causes the easiest? Wind turbines, you have problems with birds getting caught in it, what's a way that you could fix that? It's certainly a lot easier than pulling Co2 in the atmosphere.

Caleb: I just add on to what Miranda and Ivana have said, but there's downsides to everything. As like, we don't quote me on this, but I believe solar panels and wind turbines, since Alberta is, like, flat-ish. It would actually be cheaper for us to use that. But since we're already in oil and gas, and we already, like, we know how to do that, right? Like, we've gotten down to a fine practice. They just don't want to transfer over because it’s so much work to transfer over. But in the long term, it would be so much better.

Kristina: Thank you all for being on our podcast today. It was a great pleasure having you all here and answering our questions. We're really thankful to have your opinions and we're really happy that we get to share your voices out to the rest of the world.

Episode 3: What are youth doing now to fight climate change?

Kristina: Welcome to Youth Rising YYC, where Calgary teen hosts from Zed News explore how Calgary's fossil fuel industry impacts their generation’s views and aspirations during the climate crisis. I'm Kristina Lanuza and in today's episode, your host Priya Migneault welcomes Jade Jensen, with Lives with Less Plastic, and Sadie Vipond with Our Children’s Trust, to discuss what they are doing to help fight climate change and make lasting positive environmental change. Priya?

Priya: Thanks, Kristina. Welcome Jade. My first question for you today is what got you into climate change in environmental activism?

Jade: It was actually like a project in grade seven. And it was whether we thought plastic straws and bags to be banned, and not directly connected to climate change. But that was such a little thing we could do. And I was like, yes, plastic straws and bags should be banned… it has grown from here as an environmental movement in my community. In Cochrane there aren't any other environmental groups other than [Cochrane Environmental Action Committee], which is a group of adults, pretty much. So it was like this is how I can get involved, create this organization that looks at climate change, and then the plastic crisis.

Priya: Yeah, that's really cool. And then who do you look up to in the environmental movement, and why?

Jade: Greta Thunberg. She's done so much. And she's maybe like, she's a year older than me. Also, there's my mom, she's in an environmental nonprofit, and that's just been a big person in my life, right? So being able to have those people to look up to and see, oh, they're making a change. And even though they're adult, I can still make a change, even though I'm just a teenager.

Priya: What is Lives with Less Plastic?

Jade: So Lives with Less Plastic ...is a youth led organization in Cochrane, and what we strive to do is educate mainly the younger populations. So teach kids in grade one to grade four to grade eight. So the elementary school, middle school age, about plastics, sustainability, and how they are affected by the environment, what they do to the environment. And then we take all these facts, information, and I teach them to these kids… We know all these stats about all this ocean pollution, and the microplastics in the water … but then lots of kids, or people in general, don't know how to apply these facts to real life. So then we say, these are the facts, and this is how you can help. This is how you can make a difference every single day.

Priya: That's awesome. And just curious, how many presentations have you done? And in which provinces? I've seen that you've gone quite far.

Jade: Alright, so this school year, I've done 21 different school visits, plus presentations in Alberta, and then one in Ontario. So we've definitely grown and they've operated all virtual, but it's allowed me to reach out to more people, because I don't have to drive there, right? So it sucks being virtual, but we've been able to do a lot more this year. And reach, reach a lot more students.

Priya: And so that kind of ties into our next question, what are you and your organization doing right now to fight environmental issues? So other than the presentations? What else has your organization been up to? And what have you guys done in the past?

Jade: Well, we recently just did Earth Week. And so we have this Earth Day, and it's just a day, right? We extended it to the entire week to make more of a difference. Last year, we did Plasticless August, which we're going to do again this year, so it's super easy for people to get involved. It's just through social media, and then garbage cleanups. Now, unfortunately, with new COVID restrictions, we're not sure how that's going to play out, but we're definitely gonna try and do more garbage cleanup. And then yes, the school visits are definitely a large part of that education aspect.

Priya: That's awesome. And what do you do to get more people involved in your cause and organization?

Jade: I think social media plays a very big part. We have a website, we're on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, all that kind of stuff. And I tried to push for it at my school, but it's hard to get people involved with something like this. It's not like ‘join a sports team,’ right? It's a little bit different. But I think social media has been a big part of that. And then just news articles on the Cochrane online newspaper, which really allows us to have a bigger reach to get more people involved.

Priya: What do you think would be the best way for Alberta to adapt, and or fight, climate change?

Jade: Well, one of the things Alberta has actually started to implement is the Extended Producer Responsibility Act. So this is more based on recycling plastics, but we, we have companies producing so much waste, and then they are not responsible for the waste they produce. We have like a plastic water bottle ... it's gonna go into the environment, but then the company that made that plastic marble is not responsible for that. So they're not responsible if that plastic water bottle doesn't get recycled. So having extended producer responsibility, I think is a very big thing. Everyone should implement it and Alberta has definitely started to do that. Because all the action is not placed on the consumers... it's placed on the producers, the pressure is put on them. So they're going to make changes because they know that it's gonna cost them in the future.

Priya: That's awesome. I've never heard of that act. So that's really cool that Alberta is doing that. Is there anything else you'd like to add that we haven't talked about already?

Jade: This in general, I think it's very important for youth to get involved, we might seem like oh, I just had such a small voice. But in the grand scheme of things we are the leaders today. It's our future. And we need to really make a difference. So you can have something little like organizing community garbage cleanup, or on your way home, from the bus stop pick up garbage. I think it's really important that everyone gets involved. Because who knows what it's gonna look like in 10-20 years if we don't make a difference now. So just getting involved, making that difference now, every small change, difference, creates a larger impact that will have a massive change in the long run.

Priya: Thank you so much. That’s a really good closing note.

Kristina: Thanks Priya for that informative interview with Jade Jensen. I hear you have another guest for us, Calgarian youth plaintiff Sadie Vipond with Our Children’s Trust.

Priya: Yes. Sadie was recently a part of a lawsuit against the Canadian government on behalf of the environment. If her case is appealed, her team and her would go on to push the Canadian government to create and act on a fact based climate solution plan.

Priya: So Sadie, what got you into climate change and environmental activism?

Sadie: My dad was super involved with the climate crisis. So I kind of became involved by consequence of that. And also, I do a lot of hiking, lots of time spent on the Rocky Mountains. So I really feel a need to protect the wild places that I've basically grown up in.

Priya: How much of a difference do you feel your actions make?

Sadie: Well, directly, not too much, because our claim was struck down by the government. But indirectly, I hope that I have made a difference, because I've spoken to the City Council, and then that was a majority vote in our favor, so, I hope I contributed to that a little bit. And of course, the Friday's for Future strikes. And I hope I've informed people with doing these talks and stuff.

Priya: Tell me about the lawsuit against the government. And what is that about? I know, you said to me about a claim and you're talking about your actions. Do you want to talk a little bit more about what that lawsuit looked like?

Sadie: Yeah, of course. So it was basically, if we win the government has to implement ... a science based climate recovery plan, which the government would have to find ways to limit their emissions and put laws... to make sure they're, like, climate friendly. And so it's basically me and 14 other youth from across Canada. I’m the only youth in Alberta, but there's quite a bit of diversity in our group. And we are helped by our Children's Trust and David Suzuki Foundation.

Priya: And so right now, did that claim just completely get dropped? Are you still working with that team to do something else?

Sadie: Um, yeah, our claim was struck down, but we're going to the court of appeals sometime in the summer, I'm pretty sure.

Priya: Awesome. That's super cool.

Sadie: Yeah.

Priya: Could you tell me more about what you did with City Council?

Sadie: Yeah, so it was, I'm not 100% sure of the details, but it was some kind of, like, climate plan. And I was in grade six, I believe, and I had this speech that I wrote by myself about a metaphor of Harry Potter and climate change. So basically, my metaphor was, Voldemort is the climate crisis, Harry Potter and his friends are the people fighting the climate crisis. And then the Ministry of Magic refuses to believe that Voldemort or the climate crisis exists, so that would be like government officials or climate change deniers. And then once the Ministry of Magic realizes that Voldemort is real, then they put all their efforts into stopping Voldemort as well.

Priya: That's awesome. I've never heard that before. That's great. Tell me about walking out for schools on Fridays. And what was the point about that?

Sadie: So Greta Thunberg strike for climate was, or like is, I guess, even though it's been closed down because of COVID. It's an amazing movement. It's really awesome. Because it's gotten so many people informed and I don't know, it feels really powerful to walk out of school for the things that I care about.

Priya: And then what did it mean for Alberta that Greta Thunberg came here in 2019? I know, she stayed at your place, as well. So what did that mean to you as well?

Sadie: I thought it was really cool that she came to Alberta, especially because it's, like, the oil district of Canada, you would say. And it was super powerful to see her speak to all the people and especially though she might have known that she would get ridiculed more than ever because of Alberta, but she was really brave and coming and coming here, and I admire for a lot for that.

Priya: And what do you think would be the best way for Alberta to adapt and or fight climate change?

Sadie: I think awareness would be the best way, awareness on how the oil impacts our, our nature and our environment and awareness that the government isn't doing enough to stop that. And so with that awareness, we could start to push more with the intention of getting more protection for the environment.

Priya: And what do you hope to see changed in the future that would benefit the planet? So similar to the Alberta question, but on a global scale.

Sadie: Globally, as well, just awareness learning, I don't know, it's kind of the same. Just pushing our government officials because they're the ones that can make huge change, and they're here to represent us. So they have to, like, be in tune with the public's opinions and if public values combating climate change, then that will change. I hope at least.

Priya: So kind of like actions equal awareness.

Sadie: Yeah, exactly.

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Dear Future Me - 2021 COVID Edition

6/7/2021

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Looking back and looking forward. The Zed News YYC teens chat with their future selves about what's happening and where they want to go.

Transcripts

Dear Heather,

It’s been a while since I wrote my last letter and I’ve learned a lot about myself since then, since the beginning way before the pandemic I've always been the type of person who would degrade myself and always talk negatively. Since the pandemic I've learned that only thinking negative thoughts don’t really get me anywhere.

The more I started to degrade myself the more confidence I lost and the more I compared myself to others, with the pandemic going on I had a bit of time for myself and noticed that I have to start loving myself before loving others. I remember looking back at the previous letter to myself and noticed that I have tried my best to be confident in everything I do.

The pandemic also helped me realize that I shouldn’t take everything for granted, and to keep your friends closer. If I look back to the time I first wrote my letter I noticed how far I’ve grown from being the person I am today, I can truly say that I hold myself with confidence and have grown closer to my friends than I ever was before.

Which is why future me, I want you to remember the words you’ve always repeated to yourself and be a better person. Future me, I want you to treat others with care even if they look down on you and think you're not worth it.

You are unique and special in your own way and nobody can stop you from being you, so don’t lose hope we’ll get through it and soon it will be a memory we can all laugh about.

Best wishes Heather.

Dear Silvana S.

It was on Sunday, March 15, 2020, I was scrolling on YouTube until my mom said that school was canceled for two weeks. I was devastated. Not only was I forced to stay at home but at the worst possible time. On Thursday & Friday, my grade had recognized me for the famous magazines I make. The next week was the book fair & then there was spring break. So went my plans of summer, er spring vacation/cleaning. Which sounds more epic than it sounds

   The next time there is a pandemic, the one thing I would do differently is, The day before the lockdown is announced I would scream/run around touching people. And I would say I need to touch you before it’s too late. I would wipe my snot on them, I would blow my future tears on them, I would lick them like a dog. Before it’s too late & I have to stay at home for 365 & 98.5 days.

    Never take for granted not having to follow covid protocols, be grateful for the privilege of breaking into someone’s house & instead of them yelling wear a mask, they’ll call the cops on you. I miss having after-school activities at school & I miss not having to stare at a screen for 8+ hours every day. I miss other people, amusement parks haven’t opened & you can’t go on vacation.

     Dear future me, never forget to be weird. I know you’re older & you’ll be a dumb teen drinking and having a boyfriend & living on your own, but remember to always be you. Always were prom or wedding dresses whenever to go. Not to flirt with the mental boys, but because you like dresses. And you love the color pink. People have to tell you to speak quieter & because you’re nice you do, I mean you always should. Your brain works 2-3 or even 4 times faster than people so you often have to slow down your speech so other people can understand. Consider it a compliment, they’re just not smart enough to understand. I can’t say never forget how you used to be because I remember when I was a baby. But be strong me & always remember, Edu is annoying, Girls are mean/Boys are stupid & that's my middle school. And when you marry someone force them to take your last name. In fact, you’re the boss of the family, haha, even better the man of the family aka the girl of the family. Keep on taking TaeKwondo so you can defeat a man if he ever tries to kidnap you. You are a freaking Queen & go be you & yell at people what square roots are. Always love 7-11. Say you’re not paying for their medical bills & say heck yah after every sentence.

Silvana

Dear Future Me,

During this pandemic, even though I was isolated from all of my friends, I feel like I was able to get much closer to others than I ever have before. Isolation means that I can’t meet my closest friends in person, but it doesn’t mean that I’m completely disconnected from the outside world – in fact, I feel as though this entire experience has worked towards making me closer to both friends I’ve already known and friends that I’ve come to know.

Being here has brought me to people that I would never have connected to if I wasn’t alone in my home. Now, I am talking to and interacting with people that share the same interests as me and don’t discriminate or poke fun at me for liking what I like. These are people that feel the same way as I do, and talk with me as though we are close-knit even though we have only known each other for a few days.

As for my current friends that I’ve known since before quarantine, I feel closer to them due to the fact that we talk on a more frequent basis through apps such as discord and whatsapp which serve to connect people during these times of disconnect. Even though I cannot see them, I can still hear them and talk to them as if we were there in person.
Something that these experiences have taught me about myself is that I am a person that craves affection and attention from others, as much as I like to say that I don’t need it. Talking with my newly-made friends gave me the experience of being noticed and paid attention to by others and talking with my old friends showed me that I want to be noticed by them even though I don’t talk much and back off when I’m talked over.
To the Future Me that may hear this, remember that it is alright to act like who you are instead of just backing away due to fear. You want to be paid attention to, and that’s fine. It isn’t as selfish as you think and it’s ok to embrace that.

Kristina

Dear Future Priya,
Last year around this time we created a letter that expressed where we were in life and what had happened so far in 2020, and somehow things went a little farther down hill globally since then. The last letter covered the Australia wildfires, Iraq and USA debacle, the start of quarantine, got confirmation that UFOs exist, and the Black Lives Matter Protests. Since then Lebanon had a massive bomb go off on one of their ports, American democracy almost crashed in one day, there were massive protests for women’s rights and a highlight on sexual harassment globally, and there is now rising tension and violence in Palistine/Isral.

   Not everything is awful though. We’ve now been in quarantine for 15 months now and I’m watching Taylor Swift’s documentary on Netflix and eating ice cream, while writing this letter. In May we got our first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, which has been administered worldwide to millions of people and we are already seeing case numbers drop drastically. In Alberta we are suppose to be restriction free and out of quarantine by July 1st. I hope this happens as it would be the greatest gift I could ask for in my final semester of high school. It’s crazy to think that we’ll be done high school in January, and already be done our graduation ceremony in less than a year. I’m so scared of what comes next, but also really really excited. I feel burnt out and exhausted with school and I’ve felt that way since my first semester of this year, which is a sign that I am ready to physically move on to something new. However, what that is is entirely undefined and my choice.

   That’s the scary part I suppose, is that I have so many options to chose from. I could travel for the few months I have until September or take a full gap year. I could go to university and college or not. I could get a full time job working for someone and have benefits and security or I could run my own business. I could move out of my parents house or stay with them for the next few years. There are just so many possibilities and for the first time in my life I’m not obligated to be somewhere or be someone. It is all very frightening and exhilarating, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

   I think when this pandemic is over I would like to do a few new things I haven’t tried to dip my toes in the waters of possibility. Maybe I’ll take a cooking, zumba, poetry, pottery, and/or sailing. Maybe I’ll join a photography club, start a new business, and/or start a blog. I would really just like to enjoy what it’s like to be free and adventurous again.

   The self-love we’ve been nurturing over the last year has really paid off. I’ve never been more happy, joyful, and content with who I am and where I am than now. We still do yoga almost everyday in high school with an instructor for over an hour, which is why I’ve lightened up about doing every weekend. I’ve been eating a really balanced diet, with lots of variety and have become more loving towards how I look and don’t feel guilty for enjoying sugary things. I’ve learned to prioritize and stand up for myself, while practicing saying ‘no’ to certain things. I journal out our goals everyday, and work to make a mental list of things we’re thankful for throughout the day. And every 11:11 I make a wish, which helps me appreciate the moment I’m in and pay attention to my surroundings. I’ve stopped feeling guilty for having ambition, goals, and dreams because not everyone will agree with the path I’m choosing to be on, but it’s mine and I want to see where it goes.

There’s so much more I want to tell you about our life this past year, but I can’t fit it all in this letter. The main thing I have learned is that things get better and you can always find joy and love in every moment so long as you look for it.

I love you so much Future Priya.

Love,
Priya

P.S. Peppermint tea is the absolute best thing ever, so go pour yourself a mug.

See Last Year's Episode

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Alberta Provincial Parks Podcast

1/5/2021

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ALBERTA PROVINCIAL PARKS PODCAST
Priya
Hello, and welcome to Zed News YYC’ s podcast.

We are members of the Alexandra Writers Centre Young Journalists program.

As young journalists, we are passionate about creating balanced and engaging news that is relevant to us. We aim to keep the public informed, highlight solutions, keep the powerful in check, and give a voice to people who don't always get heard.

Heather
Today’s podcast is about Alberta’s provincial parks and the government's recent decision to change a lot of their status to crown land without public consultation.

Priya, what is happening to Alberta's provincial parks?

Priya:
Recently, the Alberta government announced the decision to fully close and/or partially close over 20 provincial parks. They also have 164 parks which they were wanting to be transferred into partnerships with other organizations and individuals. The government claims this move is being done in order to save money, however this decision was made without consultation with the general public. The closure/partial closure of parks includes cuts to cross-country trail grooming, the closure of visitor centres, and an increase in fees. Although the Premier Jason Kenney has said that the parks being closed will not be sold, they will be turned into Crown Land, which means they will be less protected than parks. The change of status to Crown Land allows the province to sell the parks to be used for industrial purposes, this includes housing, towns, recreation facilities, pipelines, coal mines, etc… and many Albertans view this as suspicious. They worry that the Premier will not keep his word and sell off the parks once the status is changed. So, why is the Alberta government planning to close their provincial parks without public consultation?

Silvana, why is the government removing parks? How much will this save the government financially?

Silvana:
The Alberta government says fully closing 10 parks, partially closing 20 parks and removing another 164 from the parks system will save $5 million from the annual budget. This impacts a third of the province’s parks system. But critics say Albertans don’t want to see changes to their parks and there’s no evidence of cost savings. Parks that are fully closed or removed from the parks system would lose their protected status, so plants, habitats and wildlife would no longer be protected from harm or commercial development. At first, the government said they were selling some parks or transferring ownership, but later removed the word “sale” from their website and said they are looking for “partnerships” for the land. The government’s next approach was to launch a public relations campaign promising Albertans that “all current park sites will remain fully protected, free from industrial development” and that partnerships with municipalities, community groups, First Nations, and non-for-profits will save money while keeping these natural areas open for recreation.

Pryia:
Kristina, what happens when parks lose their protected status?

Kristina:
Provincial parks, under the Provincial Parks Act, are primarily managed for the conservation and the protection of their natural landscapes and ecosystems as well as for accessible recreational use for Albertans. They protect their natural landscapes as well as cultural ones, and support their ecosystem’s flora and fauna. With their removal from the Parks System, these provincial parks could lose what little protection they already have for their endangered ecosystems — that could mean the loss of habitat for animals that called those parks home, which can lead to an imbalance in the ecosystem’s biodiversity.

Silvana, which parks are being removed? Where are they located?

Silvana
They are all over the province. The full list includes the closure of 164 sites, including 10 provincial parks and nine natural areas, 146 Provincial Recreation Areas and the partial closure of 20 sites. The provincial parks are Kinbrook Island, Tillebrook, Park Lake, Williamson, Gooseberry Lake, Little Fish Lake, Rochon Sands, O’Brien, Red Lodge, and Strathcona Science

Priya
Heather, how are Albertans reacting to this news, as it wasn’t disclosed to the public until recently? What are the signs in people’s lawns?

Heather
The initial reaction was surprise and shock because there had been no public consultation before the plan was announced in February of 2020.

The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society decided to raise awareness of the plan through a lawn sign campaign. The white and green signs say “Defend Alberta Parks.” The signs are free or by donation, which has raised about $20 a sign for the campaign.

The signs are popular. There were more than 15,000 signs ordered by Albertans concerned about the closure of parks. There are also 20,000 letters that have been sent as well regarding the closure of parks. It’s not just places like Calgary or Edmonton. People in places like Banff, Nanton, and High River are buying these signs too. It even seems like whenever Premier Jason Kenny posts a comment on Twitter about the parks not being for sale, more people order the signs and Tweet about it.

Heather:
Priya, What are organizations and people doing about this?

Priya:
As Albertans have learned about what is happening to their parks they have become invested to ensure they remain open by creating petitions and fundraising campaigns. One of the first organizations to speak up about the issue was Alberta’s NDP party; they created a campaign called ‘Don’t go breaking my parks’, which is asking Albertan’s to donate $5 when they order a sticker with the slogan. The venture has gained a lot of attention provincially and federally, however it definitely is more politically targeted than others.

A group of Albertans have started an organization called ‘Defend Alberta’s Parks’, which is determined to inform Albertans about these upcoming changes to our parks and fundraise in order to keep them open. The organization has started giving away lawn signs to raise awareness and accepting donations. They also have created an online template of a letter you can customize and send to your MLA and other political representatives.

Alpine Aficionados is a non-profit organization that was recently started up by a group of Calgary based youth, who are dedicated to prevent the closure of Alberta parks. They sell t-shirts and sweaters with the slogan ‘Save our parks’ for $30 and $20, part of the profit goes to the Defend AB Parks organization. The t-shirts have already raised $2,175 for Alberta parks.

As of late December 2020, the Alberta government has announced that all parks will no longer have their status changed or be at risk of closure. However, the government has said that 170 partnerships have been reached and little to no information about these deals have been made public. According to CPAWS Southern Alberta tens of thousands of Albertans stood up to protect the parks, by purchasing lawn signs, donating, and writing their MLAs.

Thank you to all my co-hosts who helped me develop and produce this podcast. Hopefully this podcast helped educate you more on what is happening with Alberta’s parks and how passionate individuals can create change within their communities and governments.

This podcast was produced by Kristina, Heather, Silvana, and Priya. For more news from Zed News YYC please visit our website zednewsyyc.weebly.com
Thank you.

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Dear Future Me

6/19/2020

1 Comment

Join the Zed News YYC Young Journalists as they speak to their future selves about their lives now and what they hope for in the future.

Priya

Hari

Heather

Kristina

Dear Future Me Transcripts

Kristina
Dear Future Me,
During this pandemic, even though I was isolated from all of my friends, I feel like I was able to get much closer to others than I ever have before. Isolation means that I can’t meet my closest friends in person, but it doesn’t mean that I’m completely disconnected from the outside world – in fact, I feel as though this entire experience has worked towards making me closer to both friends I’ve already known and friends that I’ve come to know.

Being here has brought me to people that I would never have connected to if I wasn’t alone in my home. Now, I am talking to and interacting with people that share the same interests as me and don’t discriminate or poke fun at me for liking what I like. These are people that feel the same way as I do, and talk with me as though we are close-knit even though we have only known each other for a few days.

As for my current friends that I’ve known since before quarantine, I feel closer to them due to the fact that we talk on a more frequent basis through apps such as discord and whatsapp which serve to connect people during these times of disconnect. Even though I cannot see them, I can still hear them and talk to them as if we were there in person.

Something that these experiences have taught me about myself is that I am a person that craves affection and attention from others, as much as I like to say that I don’t need it. Talking with my newly-made friends gave me the experience of being noticed and paid attention to by others and talking with my old friends showed me that I want to be noticed by them even though I don’t talk much and back off when I’m talked over.

To the Future Me that may hear this, remember that it is alright to act like who you are instead of just backing away due to fear. You want to be paid attention to, and that’s fine. It isn’t as selfish as you think and it’s ok to embrace that.

Heather
Dear future me… I’m writing to tell you all the things I learned about myself. By then the pandemic would surely be gone so I want you to listen carefully so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.

First off, I want you to acknowledge to yourself that you are strong and confident in whatever you are doing. I know before the pandemic I always thought of myself as weak and unconfident in everything. I second-guessed my every move and I was often afraid to try something new and learned to regret it.

So future me, I want you to walk confidently and stand proud of who you are. If you don't, opportunities that I regretted not taking will come back and haunt you for the rest of your life, because future me I’ve been there too.

I want you to look back and tell yourself how much you have grown and be proud of who you are no matter what. Be thankful for all the little mistakes, lessons, and your mini freakouts that made you who you are. Future me, think of all the disappointments and the hate you received and live a life with confidence and find out who you truly are. Believe in your friends with whom you became closer because of the pandemic in order to truly embrace who you are in the world. You are not alone and you don’t need to carry the burden alone.

Priya
Dear Priya,

I suppose you’ll be almost 24 by the time you listen to this again and I have gotta tell you 16’s been a wild ride. This has been what each month of 2020 brought:

January - Australian Wild Fires
February - Iraq and USA debacle
March - Quarantine
April - Still quarantined and UFO’s
May - Black Lives Matter protests across the states and guess what still quarantined
June - Currently unknown

Not all of those are bad, but it is adding up to one eventful year. I’ve been in quarantine for 78 days now, but at least I got a change in scenery today. We traveled to Lake Country, B.C. and I arrived only an hour ago. It’s so nice to get out of the city and away from the house. Everything goes slower here and I find there is no rush for air.

During the pandemic I’ve been thinking a lot more about what I want and need in my life, and realized that I need to dedicate time specifically to me. This includes time for yoga, writing, journaling, painting, or baking, whatever as long as it is spur of the moment and makes me happy. Self love is so important and although I knew I had it before the pandemic, I wasn’t actually listening to it. I’ve started saying no to more and becoming more passionate about the things I say yes to.

I really hope that by 24 you’ve seen a little more of the world and live boldly. Don’t ever stop making yourself a priority, it’s not selfish. I learned something interesting on the drive today, pecan trees only produce fruit every few years and it is only when they have a surplus of sugars. I like to think of this like self love, people always say “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” but perhaps we should be pouring out love to others when we ourselves are so full of it we are in sense overflowing.

I hope you are still making waves, and practicing the art of giving and getting love.

All my love,
Priya

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