You're probably so used to algorithm-curated content — perfectly tailored to your tastes — that receiving this newsletter, written by a real human Evergreen-er, might feel a little out of place (yes, humans still write these!)
Every day, we're bombarded with news, entertainment and ads crafted by robots designed to hold our attention. No wonder our attention spans feel shot (more on that in our stories below). Some experts have even said that our inattention has reached “epidemic” levels.
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In this month's edition of Evergreen News, we’re exploring the value that comes when we unplug and step outside — into well designed spaces that help us slow down, take a walk, breathe deeply and reconnect with the world.
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5 urban trails to explore this winter
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Take a hike (literally)! Don't let winter stop you from getting outdoors and enjoying some of Canada's amazing public spaces. You don't even have to leave the city to explore scenic nature trails. Check out some of our favourite urban trails this winter. |
Feeling pulled in too many directions? Maybe we can help |
In the attention economy, everything is vying for your eyes and ears. There has been a lot of speculation over the last few years that our attention spans might be getting worse. Whether or not this is true, it’s certainly something that a lot of people are feeling.
The good news is that if you’re ready for something different, maybe there's hope. Read about how slowing down or going for a walk can free you from the algorithm. |
Where do kids hang out after school? See our tour of OUTLoud North Bay
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As part of our spotlight on interesting public spaces, we visited OUTLoud North Bay, a safe space for youth to build a strong and supportive community. Bean bag chairs, colourful murals, an indoor skate park — see why this is a teenager's dream! |
Canadians cycle year round! Here's your guide to winter biking |
Don't let anybody tell you the cycling season up here only lasts six months — great public spaces let us cycle all four seasons. Ready to conquer winter on two wheels? From lights to clothes, our experts take you through five essential tips for a chilly ride. |
An exciting new Toronto park brings together artists, designers, builders and dreamers
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Mabelle Park celebrated its grand opening last month, a transformation 15 years in the making that includes a new multi-use building, a range of park improvements and public artworks in an underserved neighbourhood. We talked to Leah Houston, executive director of Mabelle Arts, about the role of public art, community consultation and a partnership with Evergreen to help get the community even more involved. |
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Other stories we're reading this month 📰
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🔗 2024 Canadian City Parks Report: Park People
🔗 Why can’t we be friends? Confronting loneliness in the big city: Toronto Star
🔗 Why Everyone’s Worried About Their Attention Span—and How to Improve Yours: TIME
🔗 Our favourite adaptive reuse examples in Canada: Evergreen
🔗 Instead of Being Cynical, Try Becoming Skeptical: Behavioral Scientist |
Let's be honest, we all spend too much time looking at screens |
We often start our mornings checking our phones, spend our days glued to our laptops, and unwind with TV at night. Our lives are consumed by screens! Can you relate?
Research shows that too much screen time can negatively impact both adults and children. While there are plenty of tips for reducing screen use, the easiest solution is to just put down our devices and step outside.
This holiday season, think about what you’ll cherish more: endless scrolling on the couch or making memories sledding with family, exploring a winter market, or enjoying a snowy walk with your kids?
Let’s embrace the moments that truly matter, made possible by great public places! Learn more about how you can help. |
The Winter Market is almost here!❄️
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Open from 11am - 5pm on select Sundays in December, the Winter Market is the ultimate destination to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones this holiday season. Whether you're coming with family or friends, this market provides a one-of-a-kind experience for all. Explore an array of local vendors at the Ontario Artisan and Vintage Markets, indulge in delicious food and beverages, roast s'mores in our cozy Winter Garden, participate in engaging workshops, enjoy live performances and so much more!
📅Dates: December 1, 8, 15 & 22
🎟️Entry fee: "Pay What You Can” model with a suggestion of $5 |
New research brief: Smart and multi-solving public spaces
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From nature-based solutions 🌳 to high-tech innovations like aerial imaging 🚁, the possibilities for transformation are endless. These tools are vital for designing spaces that are inclusive, accessible, and resilient to climate change impacts — fostering places where everyone can thrive. |
Experience nature connection in action with Evergreen’s Nature Play & Learning Lab |
Looking to join us this winter for some experiential learning? Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 14, and bring warmth to your time outdoors this winter with nature-inspired ideas for seasonal play and learning. This dynamic two-hour applied session immerses participants in the fundamentals of outdoor learning and nature connection through a condensed workshop at Evergreen Brick Works that includes a guided hike followed by a sampling of our favourite seasonal outdoor activities that can be easily adapted to any space.
Use promo code EGNWINTER for $5 off per person. |
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We are looking for skilled, passionate individuals to join our growing team. As Evergreen works to build thriving cities that are livable and green, we are dedicated to developing a workforce that reflects the spaces in which we live and work. Visit our careers page |
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Our Staff Spotlight series shines a light on the voices and perspectives of the incredible Evergreen team. Up next is Michelle Zeppieri! As the Assistant Manager at the Evergreen Garden Market, Michelle brings her deep-rooted knowledge of all things green to every customer experience.
What's her favourite part about working at the Evergreen Garden Market? Click the photo for more. |
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