Go Green Kids & Parents Magazine February 2024

February 2024

Go Green

February 2024

kids & parents

MAGAZINE

Contents PG 03

PG 06

How one Hispanic- Sowing success: How & Latino-owned urban students are company is preparing for agriculture creating impact careers one reusable bottle at a time

PG 09 Running out of Room

PG

PG 11

14

Sustainability is more than recycling

PG 20-23 You Need To Know This Month

PG 28

Cotton farmers across globe commit to sustainable cotton production

PG 25 Fun ways to feed kids well

The Ocean's Battle Against Plastic Pollution 1.

PG 17

Cultivating community bonds:

PG 27 Our friends in Nepal

PG 29

Exploring the Wonders of Nature 1

Go Green Kids & Parents Magazine Publisher Ggk Media www.gogreenkidz.org https://issuu.com/gogreenkp charlene3w2@gmail.com gogreenkidsandparents@gmail.co

Regional Manager Louis Catalina Aaron Alvarez

954-548-1291 Entire contents copyrights 2024by GGK Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

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How one Hispanic- & Latinoowned company is creating impact one reusable bottle at a time (BPT)

More and more people are changing their everyday habits to be more mindful of the environment and take care of the planet. One major concern that's top of mind for consumers and businesses alike is plastic waste.

A major culprit of plastic waste is one that you likely see every day: Disposable plastic water bottles.

According to the Container Recycling Institute, 86% of disposable water bottles used in the U.S. become litter or garbage, adding 38 billion disposable water bottles to land lls.

Consumers concerned with their plastic consumption are changing their behaviors and making more ec conscious choices in their day-to-day lives, including purchasing reusable water bottles. CivicScience, a consumer analytic platform, found that 60% of U.S. adults own a reusable water bottle.

Of course, having a water bottle is only useful if people have a place to ll them. You can ll your stainless steel, glass or aluminum water bottle at home, but it likely won't last you all day. There might be times when you have to buy a plastic water bottle because there's no other option for drinkable water. Consumers can only make more conscious, sustainable decisions if clean water infrastructure is available to support these lifestyle changes - and that's where Hispanic- and Latino-owned company HOPE Hydration is stepping up.

A smart way to hydrate HOPE Hydration aims to increase sustainable, quality water access by giving people more opportunities to re ll their reusable water bottles via HOPE's ad-powered, smart-city water re ll station - the HydroStation. Brought together by a desire for a more sustainable future, HOPE's team of c founders - Dave Tigue, Cristina Gnecco and Ryan Barretta - have used their expertise to create a technology solution to motivate new behaviors around water consumption, conservation and reducing the environmental impact of plastics pollution.

The HydroStation, connected to T-Mobile's powerful 5G network, has the potential to divert singl -use plastic bottles from land lls and oceans while increasing sustainability and access to quality, free, clean and ltered water. "We're all about leveraging our network, scale and resources to be a force for good in the world we live in," said Callie Field, President, T-Mobile Business Group. "And it's clear that HOPE shares that passion."

Just this summer, the Times Square Alliance partnered with HOPE to introduce a HydroStation to the heart of New York City, providing ltered water to over 300,000 visitors per day. Sustainably accessing clean water is incredibly important for any place, but it's of special concern for folks living in or visiting urban areas like Times Square.

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HOPE's partnership with the Times Square Alliance isn't the only partnership the startup has forged. This year, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity collaborated with HOPE to install HydroStations throughout the festival. HOPE also partnered with Wellington International's Winter Equestrian Festival, marking the startup's rst installation at a worldwide equestrian venue and Ultra Music Festival, re lling 40,000 bottles in just three days.

Powering sustainability The smart HydroStations wouldn't be possible without internet connectivity and IoT solutions. The IoT technology, in particular, allows the company to keep near rea -time tabs on their lling stations. Thanks to TMobile's partnership, the startup can ensure proper water temperature and lter quality, monitor usage, calculate the amount of plastic diverted and much more.

"HOPE Hydration is thrilled to work with T-Mobile as our connectivity and IoT provider," said Jorge Richardson, Founder and CEO of HOPE Hydration. "We believe access to free, clean water is a human right.

This collaboration allows us to bring HOPE, and our stations to the next level while building smart city solutions for a more sustainable future."

"We're incredibly proud to work with Hispanic and Latino business owners," said Field. "By equipping them with cutting-edge technology solutions, we hope to see them succeed, grow and change the world for the better."

To learn more about HOPE Hydration, visit hopehydration.com.

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Amidst the trees, where sunlight dances free, In nature's arms, I nd my soul's decree.

A canvas painted with hues of green and gold, Where stories of life and wonder are told.

Beneath the azure, where the rivers ow, The secrets of the earth they gently show.

Majestic mountains, reaching for the skies, Their silent strength, a wondrous, grand prize.

In meadows vast, where wild owers bloom, A fragrant symphony, a sweet perfume.

The buzzing bees and butter ies in ight, Bring nature's stage to vivid, vibrant light.

The ocean's waves, with rhythmic, soothing song, In endless tides, they carry life along.

The coral reefs, a world of colors rare, A treasure trove for those who venture there.

Through forests deep, where ancient giants stand, Their roots entwined in this enchanted land.

The whispers of the leaves, a timeless creed, In nature's embrace, we nd what we need.

Oh, nature's beauty, boundless and profound, In every corner of this world, you're found.

A precious gift, a source of endless grace, In your embrace, we nd our resting place.

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Sowing success: How urban students are preparing for agriculture careers BPT - Imagine a high school where classrooms connect to a barn with goats, students care for

alpacas, and cows graze in the distance. You're probably picturing a rural community, but this is situated in Chicago.

The Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences is a magnet high school within the Chicago Public Schools system. Students don't just graduate with a typical high school curriculum. They also leave with technological skills and agricultural knowledge, giving them a major step up in college and beyond.

Despite the urban setting, the school sits on 73 acres of land, with 32 acres lled with livestock, beehives and a market garden. As part of their studies, students tend to the animals, manage crops and take their harvest to the school's farm stand to sell to the community.

"In their last two years of education, students have mini-majors: Animal science, agricultural mechanics and technology, biotechnology in agriculture, agricultural nance and economics, horticulture and landscape design, food science and natural resources and environmental management," said Noelle Coronado, lead agriculture teacher and National FFA Organization chapter adviser. "Everything they do in these ag classes has an instructional portion and a hands-on project that bene t the school, its animals and crops, and the local community."

Connecting the dots Many of the pathways overlap in ways the students didn't consider before attending the school. For example, the school's alpacas play a key role in the agricultural environment of the school. Kaili Norwood, a senior in the animal science pathway, is responsible for caring for the school's three alpacas and has seen rsthand how the various areas of study are interconnected.

"Right now, some of the students are working to turn the alpacas' stool into fertilizer to use in the market garden's soil, providing great nutrients for the crops," says Norwood. "I'd never thought about how animal science is agriculture before, but now I de nitely get to see how it's all tied together."

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This isn't the only connection. The agricultural nance students manage many aspects of the farmstand, like selling the student-grown produce. The farmstand connects to the barn, where students sell the products they've created in the hands-on portion of their classes, including soy candles, zucchini bread, goat milk lotion and alpaca wool spun yarn. These experiences have opened students' eyes to the wider world of farming.

"We're getting to see what problems farmers face and where the money they spend on their farm goes, including crop protection and general management of their farms," says Zachary GonzalezMurillo, agricultural nance and economics pathway student.

A lasting impact The students' studies and projects don't just bene t their local community at present. The school's sta believes students will continue to apply their knowledge after graduation in higher education programs and agricultural careers.

"We're grooming the next generation of farmers," says Brittney Kee, horticulture science teacher.

"We have budding agronomists, soil scientists, greenhouse producers and urban farmers."

The lasting impact of the high school is evident in alumni's contributions. A former student donated the school's most recent addition to its alpaca family, and many teachers remain in contact with former students working in the industry. Also, seven of the 10 agriculture department sta are alumni. They wanted to give back to a place that was so formative in their youth.

"My life-long mentor still works at the school and is a huge reason for my career change that led me back here as an educator," says Coronado. "I don't think I would ever want to leave this position. I love watching students have these light bulb moments about how much agriculture plays a key role in their day-to-day lives."

Moving forward Schools like this one help students prepare for careers in agriculture, providing them with networking and internship opportunities that many high school students typically don't receive.

All students are members of their FFA chapter, attend a two-week summer education program after sophomore year and can apply for a paid summer internship before their junior and senior years. When applying for college-level internships or an entry-level position at a company like Syngenta, these activities help them stand out from their competition.

That said, not all students who attend the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences pursue careers in agriculture. However, all leave understanding agriculture's importance and how they can be better stewards of the land, their food and the industry that keeps the world moving. They also bring an urban voice to a traditionally rural eld, o ering new perspectives and ideas to the industry.

To learn more about urban agricultural education and the wider ag community, visit SyngentaThrive.com.

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Dr. Peter Scerbo, DMD, P.A.

FORT LAUDERDALE LOCATION (954)523-6525

255 SE14TH ST.#1A Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

www. oridasmilesdental.com

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Running out of Room As the population of the United States continues to grow, so does the volume of waste generated by Americans. Paradoxically, we are confronted with a diminishing number of suitable locations to accommodate our ever-expanding waste. The disconcerting reality is that old land lls are closing down at twice the rate of new ones opening up.

The closures primarily a ect older, inadequately constructed dumps that were notorious for leaking hazardous leachate. The responsible choice has been to shut them down. Simultaneously, the operational land lls are lling up at an alarming pace. Even the largest sanitary land lls have their limits, and there is only so much trash they can hold.

Adding to the challenge is the fact that many people today vehemently oppose the establishment of land lls near their homes. Their concerns are valid, encompassing fears of hazardous waste—trash laden with harmful chemicals—being stored in these dumps, thereby posing health hazards to nearby residents. Furthermore, there's the understanding that living in proximity to a land ll makes their neighborhood less attractive to prospective homebuyers, potentially driving down property values.

Consequently, when local government o cials commence their search for suitable land ll sites, they often encounter the ire of concerned citizens. It becomes a conundrum where everyone recognizes the need for a place to manage garbage, yet no one wishes for it to be situated nearby. It is imperative to address this issue rather than ignore it, hoping it will miraculously disappear.

Below, we've created a list of the largest land lls in the U.S. that create a fortune from Americans' garbage.

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Sunshine Canyon.

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El Sobrante.

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Frank R. Bowerman Land ll.

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Denver Arapahoe.

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Columbia Ridge1.

Land ll.

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Roosevelt Regional Land ll.

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Atlantic Waste Disposal.

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Pine Tree Acres Land ll.

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www.lanabambini.co.uk

We’re not perfect. We know that our business activity – from shipping products to keeping the lights on – creates carbon emissions as a by-product and we work progressively to reduce those impacts. We believe in being transparent with regards to our challenges and successes

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Sustainability is more than recycling: The importance of understanding product lifecycle

(BPT) - Looking for sustainable packaging

when shopping is an important step for reducing your environmental footprint. For many people, this means seeking packaging that is recyclable. While that's an important element of sustainable packaging, it's only one part.

You can make a bigger impact and support the well-being of the earth, as well as the people and communities involved in producing products, by understanding a product's full lifecycle. So, what else should you consider when comparing packaging?

1. Material sourcing Beyond what materials are used, it's important to ask where the materials come from and how they are sourced. How can you know material sourcing is done responsibly? Some brands go through extensive evaluations to be certi ed by reputable third-party organizations. Here are a couple of labels you can look for and feel con dent the packaging you are purchasing is responsibly sourced: Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) label: FSC® is an independent, non-governmental forest certi cation standard. When you purchase FSC®-labeled products, you're helping forests and the people that rely on them thrive by supporting zero deforestation, fair wage and work environment, community rights and protection of plant and animal species.

Bonsucro Chain of Custody label: The Bonsucro Chain of Custody Standard relates to the supply of sugarcane, including all stages from feedstock production up to consumption. This certi cation provides assurance that sustainability claims can be tracked along the supply chain, including responsible sourcing and ethical trading of sugarcane, which can be used to produce a plant-based plastic material in place of traditional fossil-fuel based plastics.

Renewable, plant-based materials Renewable plant-based materials are better for the environment because they can be replenished over time and enable a move away from fossil fuel-based materials. Plus, you can feel good that renewable resources are natural resources, which will replenish the portion depleted through consumption. Examples of renewable materials you are likely to see on a store shelf include: Paper from responsibly managed forests: All Tetra Pak® cartons use paperboard from trees sourced from FSC®-certi ed forests and other controlled sources. On average, a Tetra Pak carton consists of 70% paperboard, a renewable plant-based material.

Plastics made from plant-based materials: Plant-based plastics look and perform the exact same as their fossil fuel-based alternative. Look for the Bonsucro logo, which demonstrates responsible sugarcane management.

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3. Protection of the product Good packaging helps protect the product, which is particularly important for foods and beverages. This helps ensure you don't get sick and helps reduce food waste. Globally, food waste is responsible for 8% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

When shopping, look for packaging that helps to extend shelf life without a negative impact on nutrition. For example, foods and drinks in shelf-stable cartons from Tetra Pak are treated using UHT (ultra heat treatment). When combined with the company's shelfstable packaging, products ranging from dairy milk to chicken broth are safe and delicious for long periods of time without the need for additives, preservatives or refrigeration before opening.

Bonus: In addition to minimizing food waste, shelf-stable packaging does not require refrigeration. This minimizes energy consumption that would otherwise be used to support a refrigerated distribution chain.

4. Recyclability Once a package has ful lled its purpose, what happens at the end of life? Ideally, it can be recycled. When shopping, look for a recycling logo on the package.

Many packages are considered widely recyclable and can be placed in your curbside bin. Keep in mind, though, some packages are not yet recyclable everywhere, so you may see a recycling logo with additional quali cations such as: Recyclable where facilities exist, or, with speci c instructions on where to return the item to be recycled.

To prevent litter, reattach caps or push straws into a package before you place them in the recycling bin.

5. Carbon impact In addition to understanding a product's lifecycle, some package changes can reduce the overall carbon footprint. For example, the carbon emissions of a package with renewable, plant-based plastics are less than the same package with plastic made from traditional fossil fuel-based materials.

Check the packaging or a brand's website for information about the carbon footprint of the package.

For example, Carbon Trust™ o ers a "Reducing CO2 Packaging" certi cation for brands to include onpack that demonstrates a move toward a package with a lower carbon impact.

Understanding a product's lifecycle can help you make more informed shopping decisions. Learn more at Tetrapak.com/en-us/Sustainability.

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A TASTE OF CHINA

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Cotton farmers across globe commit to sustainable cotton production (BPT) - Consumer demand for sustainable

cotton is at an all-time high. But for farmers, sustainability isn't just a word on a clothing tag. It's a dedication that begins before a single seed is planted.

When weather, pest and disease pressure close in on a cotton crop, ready to steal yield and pro ts, how do farmers across the globe meet this ever-increasing demand for sustainable cotton?

Texas and two from Mississippi) shared with BASF leadership from North America and Europe, as well as national textile and agriculture media, on the many on-farm sustainable practices they are currently enacting, what they need from industry stakeholders and their hope for the future.

"Most people aren't aware of the e ort farmers like us are putting into sustainable agriculture practices, and we want to continue to share our story and gain their support," said Randy Smith, Texas cotton farmer.

Randy's wife Pat adds, "We raise our families here. We want to protect the land for generations to come."

This question, and the conversations it spurred, were at the forefront of 'United for the Biggest Job on Earth,' an event hosted

by BASF Agricultural Solutions at the United Nations headquarters on September 12.

"We're here today because BASF is committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and there is no greater person to help us address those challenges than our farmers," said Ray Daniels, BASF Seed Sustainability Manager.

The two-hour event was led by Daniels and Jessica Monserrate, Head of Sustainability, BASF Agricultural Solutions, North America.

Five cotton farmers from Greece and ve cotton farmers from the U.S. (three from

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All 10 cotton farmers are part of the U.S. e3® Sustainable Cotton program or the European Certi ed FiberMax® program. Both provide eld-level traceability for cotton, as well as a way for farmers to track and measure the environmental and social impacts of their cotton production.

Sustainability isn't a one-size- tsall approach. Texas cotton farmers Richard Gaona and Jon Watley discussed how cover crops might work in a eld in one part of the state, and not in another.

"Our operations can be as unique as the land we steward," said Gaona. "Having a partner to help us nd the right solutions and enact the right sustainability practices is important."

Helping do the Biggest Job on Earth Having a true partnership with farmers is one of the main priorities of the e3 Sustainable Cotton program, which supports farmers advancing the preservation of natural resources, the viability and vitality of cotton farming communities and the production of high-quality, sustainable cotton. It's important that farmers have the tools to successfully adopt and accelerate sustainable practices onfarm, as well as meet the needs of brands and retailers who are expected to demonstrate transparency to their consumers.

The e3 Sustainable Cotton program provides brands and retailers in fashion and textile industries access to sustainably produced FiberMax and Stoneville® cotton, with measured, validated and reported sustainability metrics that they, and their consumers, can trust.

In 2022, more than 250 farmers enrolled in the e3 Sustainable Cotton program and made positive impacts in sustainable cotton production. * 79% of e3 Sustainable Cotton farmers used reduced tillage practices, minimizing soil turnover to maintain nutrients and keeping a farmers' No. 1 asset healthy. Not only does reduced tillage keep soil from moving, but it also requires fewer machinery trips through elds, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. * 69% incorporated practices that build carbon through their production system, including practices like crop rotation, reduced tillage and cover crops to improve soil quality. By storing carbon in the soil, it limits carbon loss to our atmosphere, reducing climate impacts from cotton production.

Farmers provide the fuel, feed, food and ber for our world and are an essential component to the global economy. With that responsibility comes a heightened need to make sure their voices are heard, and their industry is understood for all consumers.

"Our ag systems will have to undergo an accelerated transformation to provide for our growing population, all the while ensuring we're mitigating impact to our environment," said Monserrate.

“It's the Biggest Job on Earth and BASF will be by their side."

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Farming for the future

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Cultivating community bonds: How farmers markets bene t growers and consumers (BPT) - Farmers markets are strong contenders for the future of local food. Each season, more than 8,000 markets sell directly to consumers across the U.S. Direct-to-consumer food sales totaled $2.9 billion in 2020, and on-farm stores and farmers markets accounted for $1.7 billion, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.

Farmers markets are a boon to local communities because they provide fresh produce at a ordable prices. More importantly, they empower community members to understand where their food comes from and who grows it, creating strong interpersonal connections between growers and consumers.

The idea of selling produce at a farmers market can seem daunting to many food producers. However, Chip Ross, well-being program manager at Syngenta, encourages growers to be open to selling at farmers markets. "It's certainly something to put yourself out there and build a positive reputation about your produce," said Ross.

Investing money and labor to reap rewards On average, across the country, farmers market booth fees vary based on the market's location, size and popularity. According to Medium, daily booth fees can range from $20 to $50, in addition to permit and insurance fees. While these costs may discourage growers from participating, the connections they make at farmers markets can turn strangers into lifelong customers.

For 30 years, Donna and Ed Welchert of Ed Welchert Produce in Ft. Calhoun, Nebraska, have attended the Omaha Farmers Market every Sunday from May to October to sell their fresh vegetables. Each Sunday, the Welcherts spend three hours removing their produce from the truck and setting up their booth.

While the weekly setup requires more labor and costs, joining has brought them more business. "We pay an annual fee for our booth, around $1,100, and we're in the same exact spot every week, every year, so everybody knows how to nd us," said Donna. "We've gained tons of customers who have been with us for years."

Interacting with customers in person at the farmers market and through social media has helped the Welcherts build community connections. These connections allow consumers to get to know their growers on a personal level and reach out directly with any questions or requests.

Weather the weather, whatever the weather Weather has a major e ect on crop yields and food tra c at the farmers market, impacting growers' sales. One common disadvantage is a lack of overhead booth coverings, which means harsh weather may damage booths, displays and products.

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Zoua Lo, owner of Lu's Flowers and Vegetables, knows all too well that sales are largely dependent on the weather. "If it's a rainy day, we don't have any customers. If it's a nice day, we have lots of customers," Lo said.

Despite being at the mercy of the weather, Lo and other growers persist. While selling at a farmers market can be a gamble depending on the weather, maintaining a consistent presence at the market long-term can o set the poor sales days.

The human element Donna Welchert says when attending a farmers market, bringing ample produce is always a good idea. "A long time ago, we were told to 'stack it high and watch it y,'" she says. "We live by this motto, and we found that people want to pick out their own stu . They want to look through the peppers and say, 'This is the one I want.'"

By shopping at a farmers market, consumers can nd the perfect produce with the guiding hand of those who nurtured the vegetable or fruit from seed to stall. It's this human element that makes the farmers market experience unique for sellers and buyers and leads to better pro ts for growers.

Lo agrees. She believes the key to success at a farmers market is simply talking to customers and fellow vendors. Being friendly and connecting with the community builds long-lasting relationships that can buoy growers through good and bad days.

These are just a few examples from growers of how farmers markets are more than just a platform for commerce. These spaces are hubs for connection, education and community building that ultimately contribute to the longevity of farming communities.

To learn more about farm production and the wider agricultural community, visit SyngentaThrive.com.

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www.earth-ways.co.uk

Welcome to Earth Ways!

Earth Ways Welcomes you to the website of Rubha Phil, a young nature based permaculture community on the Isle of Skye.

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ANIMAL

You Need To Know This Month

DANGER OF EXTINCTION

Galapagos Penguin

Black Spider Monkey

African Wild Dog

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Brown Bonobo Chimp

2020

FLOWER

You Need To Know This Month

Daisy

Did you Know…

• There are approximately 4000 species of daisies that di er in size, shape, color and type of habitat.

• They are found on every continent except Antarctica.

• Daisies can live in both wet and dry climates, and they are resistant to pesticides and insects.

• Not a picky plant, daisies grow well both in full sun and in part sun or shady areas.

Buttercups and daisies, Oh, the pretty owers; Coming ere the spring time, To tell of sunny hours, While the trees are lea ess, While the elds are bare, Buttercups and daisies Spring up here and there.

www.justfunfacts.com

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By Mary Howitt

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FRUIT

You Need To Know This Month

Mango

Mango Fun Facts •

Mangos are the most popular fruit in the world

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Mangos were rst grown in India over 5000 years ago

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Mango seeds traveled with humans from Asia to the Middle East, East Africa and South America beginning around 300 or 400 A.D.

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The paisley pattern, developed in India, is based on the shape of a mango

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The mango is a symbol of love in India, and a basket of mangos is considered a gesture of friendship

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Legend says that Buddha meditated under the cool shade of a mango tree Mangos are related to cashews and pistachios

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A mango tree can grow as tall as 100 feet A one-cup serving of mangos is just 100 calories

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Mangos provide 100% of your daily vitamin C, 35% of your daily vitamin A and 12% of your daily ber

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mango.org

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Green Initiatives YOU can do this month

https://www.ramsar.org/

World Wetlands Day February 02

International Polar Bear Day February 27 https://polarbearsinternational.org/

1923

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Fun ways to feed kids well (BPT) - Registered Dietitian Mia Syn, MS, RDN

Are your little ones turning up their noses at broccoli and sco ng at spinach? It's time to bring out the secret ingredients - fun and laughter, plus maybe some hidden veggies. Here are my best tips for getting kids to gobble up healthy food that will have them begging for more!

1.Cook together: Cooking as a family can be fun and educational. Yes, it can also make a bit of a mess. But lean into it, I promise it's worth it! When kids participate in meal preparation, they are more likely to try new foods and avors. Plus getting them involved practices skills like measuring, chopping, stirring and following recipes great for children's overall development and gives them a great sense of accomplishment. Try a Taco Tuesday night with Kevin's Cilantro Lime Chicken. The chicken is heat and serve, so it's perfect for tiny hand participation. Pop it in your favorite tortillas and create a toppings bar for kids to make their own creations. Letting kids choose their own toppings provides an opportunity to cultivate autonomy and have a little fun!

2. Encourage family meals: Family meals are where it's at! Eating together is a chance to bond and connect, not to mention savor some seriously delicious food. Make fuss-free and fun dinners a staple in your household by putting technology aside and focusing on the goodness at hand. Try upping the fun factor by playing some fun sing-a-long dinnertime music. Or pick up some colorful paper napkins with their favorite characters and let the kids choose Superman or SpongeBob. Studies show that kiddos who eat dinner with their families tend to have healthier diets overall. Take that, mac 'n cheese on repeat!

3. Be a role model: Monkey see, monkey do! Your little ones learn by example, so be sure to model healthy eating habits yourself. Want your kids to eat their veggies? Then it's time to show them how it's done! You can even make it extra easy and delicious by trying out Kevin's Natural Foods 5-minute meals. With a wide variety of avors, like Thai Coconut Chicken and Korean BBQ Beef, these meals are not only healthy but also incredibly tasty. Add in some pre-washed veggies and dinner is served! By enjoying these convenient and nutritious options, you'll show your kids that eating well can be both quick and satisfying.

Now get out there and help your kids build a healthy relationship with food and develop a taste for nutritious options! From being a role model to trying out Kevin's Natural Foods 5-minute meals, taking small steps can make a big di erence in your child's health. So, start today, and don't forget to add in the fun!

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THE MODERN FARMING COMPANY Our indoor farms create the ideal conditions for growing the purest produce imaginable. https://boweryfarming.com

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Our friends in Nepal

by Siddhatrha Poudel

We dwell in the enchanting land of Nepal, a nation renowned for its most esteemed treasure, Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth. Our vibrant capital, Kathmandu, is nestled at the very heart of seven distinctive development regions. Nepal, on its path to development, is primarily de ned by its fertile agricultural landscapes, generously yielding a diverse array of seasonal crops and vegetables.

Our homeland boasts an abundance of natural splendor, o ering countless tranquil retreats where one can unwind, releasing the burdens of daily life. Nepal is the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, known as the Light of Asia, celebrated globally for his message of peace and unity.

Our country has also been the cradle of countless valiant ancestors whose sacri ces have played a pivotal role in preserving Nepal's natural beauty.

Nepal is a harmonious tapestry of multiple religions, welcoming and embracing Hinduism, Buddhism (following the teachings of Gautama Buddha), and Christianity (in worship of Jesus). This rich tapestry of faiths underscores our deep respect for diverse beliefs. Hindu devotees frequent temples, Buddhists nd solace at stupas, and Christians gather in churches to honor their respective deities.

Within our borders, Nepal shelters numerous historical monuments, meticulously preserved as legacies for generations to come. The people of Nepal are celebrated for their congeniality, warmth, and genuine concern for one another. It is a place where bonds of friendship and community ourish.

In our beloved Nepal, we stand united, celebrating diversity and treasuring the natural wonders gracing our homeland. With open hearts, we extend a warm welcome to people of all faiths, joining together in the embrace of our shared home.

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The Ocean's Battle Against Plastic Pollution The world's oceans are vast and teeming with life, but they face an ever-growing threat: plastic pollution. Over the years, our dependence on plastic has led to an alarming increase in plastic waste nding its way into the ocean. This pollution has dire consequences for marine ecosystems and, ultimately, for humanity.

Plastic waste in the ocean comes in various forms, from discarded bottles and bags to tiny microplastics that result from the breakdown of larger items. This pollution poses a severe threat to marine life. Birds, sh, and marine mammals often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to ingestion and, in many cases, death.

The e ects of plastic pollution extend beyond just wildlife. Plastic particles can enter the human food chain when we consume seafood that has ingested microplastics. Additionally, plastic pollution can damage coral reefs, disrupt ecosystems, and even contribute to climate change as plastics break down and release harmful chemicals.

E orts to combat plastic pollution in the oceans have gained momentum in recent years.

Governments, NGOs, and individuals are working together to reduce plastic waste through recycling, bans on single-use plastics, and beach clean-up initiatives. Innovative technologies are being developed to clean up plastic from the ocean's surface and prevent further contamination.

Education is a crucial part of the solution. Raising awareness about the impact of plastic pollution on the oceans is essential to drive change. By reducing our use of single-use plastics, properly disposing of waste, and supporting policies that aim to limit plastic production, we can all play a role in preserving the beauty and health of our oceans.

The battle against plastic pollution in the oceans is ongoing, but with concerted e orts and global cooperation, we can hope to mitigate its devastating e ects. Our oceans are not just a source of wonder and beauty but also a vital part of our planet's ecosystem, deserving of our protection and care.

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Exploring the Wonders of Nature

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Nature is like a giant playground lled with surprises, adventures, and wonders waiting for kids to discover. From towering trees to buzzing bees, nature has a lot to o er. So, put on your explorer hat and let's embark on a journey to learn about the incredible world of nature!

The Great Outdoors Imagine stepping outside and feeling the warm rays of the sun on your face. That's the great outdoors!

It's where you can nd green forests, sparkling rivers, and endless elds of colorful owers. The best part? You don't have to go far to explore nature. Even a walk in your local park can lead to amazing discoveries.

The Marvelous Creatures Nature is home to countless amazing creatures. Have you ever heard the cheerful chirping of birds in the morning? Birds like sparrows, robins, and blue jays are some of the many feathered friends you can nd in your neighborhood. If you're lucky, you might even spot a squirrel scampering up a tree or a friendly butter y uttering by.

And let's not forget about the bees and butter ies, the true superheroes of nature! They help owers bloom by spreading pollen, and without them, we wouldn't have the delicious fruits and vegetables we enjoy.

The Magic of Seasons Nature changes its out t four times a year, and each season brings its own special magic. In the spring, owers burst into bloom, and baby animals are born. Summer is all about sunshine, picnics, and long days of fun. Autumn brings a riot of colors as leaves turn red, yellow, and orange before falling to the ground. And in winter, you can play in the snow, build snowmen, and sip hot cocoa by the replace.

Our Responsibility Just like superheroes have a mission to protect the world, we have a responsibility to take care of nature. When we go out to explore, we should leave no trace behind, like a real-life nature detective.

Don't litter, and always pick up after yourself. Be kind to animals and their homes, and never disturb them.

We can also help by planting trees and owers to make our environment more beautiful and provide a home for birds and insects. Learning about nature helps us appreciate its beauty and understand why it's crucial to protect it.

Conclusion Nature is like a magical book waiting to be read, full of stories, colors, and adventures. So, grab your magnifying glass, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore. Whether you're hiking in the woods, splashing in puddles, or simply gazing at the stars, nature will always be there to amaze and inspire you. Enjoy your journey in the great outdoors!

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Exploring the Wonders of Nature - A Kid's Guide

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