We crossed the Ontario-Quebec border reeling from oppressive cold. Things quickly warmed up when we saw the great work of Cornwall’s St. Lawrence River Institute.

More educator than advocate, the River Institute teaches kids to respect their surroundings with a focus on the St. Lawrence River ecosystem. It has gained an international reputation for its fresh water ecosystem research.

What a great way to begin our Ontario stint of the tour! That good feeling continued all the way to Kingston.

In Kingston, I fell in love. The incomparable Sarah Harmer spun her lyrical magic onstage as an opener for David. She even (accidentally) brushed my arm with her hand. It was enchanting.

In addition to dynamite vocals and casual arm brushings, Ms. Harmer fights to protect the natural surroundings in the Niagara region. In 2005, Harmer co-founded Protecting Escarpment Rural Land (PERL), an organization that campaigns to protect the Niagara Escarpment from development.

--Jason Curran
Communications master Jason Curran has been travelling on the bus since February 1. Is David Suzuki coming to your town? Probably! Have a look at the schedule.